Prachin Uvasagga Haram Stotra

The provided text is a Jain scripture titled Prachin Uvasagga Haram Stotra, published by Jain Satya Prakash. Based on the scans of the book, here's a comprehensive summary:

Core Subject:

The book is primarily a collection of mantras and stotras (hymns of praise) dedicated to Lord Parshvanatha, the 23rd Jain Tirthankara. The central theme revolves around the "Uvasagga Haram" (Remover of Calamities) aspect of Lord Parshvanatha, emphasizing his power to alleviate suffering, ward off evil, and bestow blessings.

Key Components and Content:

• Introduction and Publisher Information: The initial pages indicate the publisher as Jain Satya Prakash and mention the printing press ("Shankar Press"). There are also details about the individuals involved in publishing and printing, including Mangaldas Hemchand Pareopkari.
• Mantras and Stotras: The core of the book features a series of mantras and stotras, often presented with specific seed syllables (bijaksharas) and invocations. These are designed for recitation and meditation to seek divine intervention.
  • Lord Parshvanatha: The primary deity invoked is Lord Parshvanatha, often referred to by his epithets like "Vishhar" (remover of poison/calamities) and "Pas" (derived from Parshvanatha).
  • Dharanendra and Padmavati: These are celestial serpent kings and their consort who are closely associated with Lord Parshvanatha and are frequently invoked alongside him for protection and fulfillment of desires.
  • Other Deities/Powers: Some mantras also invoke other divine beings or powers, such as:
    • Chakreshwari Devi: A Yakshini associated with Lord Parshvanatha.
    • Gajalakshmi: The goddess of wealth.
    • Various Yakshinis and divine energies: Implied through specific bijaksharas and invocations.
  • Purpose of Recitation: The stotras and mantras are presented with the intention of:
    • Removing calamities and suffering (Uvasagga Haram): Protection from diseases, dangers, evil spirits, enemies, and other misfortunes.
    • Granting wishes and desires: Fulfilling material and spiritual aspirations.
    • Bestowing wealth, prosperity, and good fortune: Invoking Lakshmi and other auspicious blessings.
    • Achieving liberation and spiritual progress: The ultimate goal of Jain practice.
• "Panchasashthi Yantra" (Sixty-five Yantra): Several pages are dedicated to a specific Yantra or mystical diagram. This Yantra is described as being related to sixty-five Jain Tirthankaras and is believed to possess protective and auspicious powers. The book likely provides the method of its construction or use.
• "Sattariyar Yantra" (Seventy-two Yantra): Another Yantra is presented, possibly related to specific number counts of Tirthankaras or mantras.
• Genealogical Information: Pages 12-15 contain information about individuals, likely members of the family or patrons associated with the publication. It lists their names, birth dates (in the Vikram Samvat era), and birth days. This suggests a connection to a specific Jain community or lineage.
• Specific Stotras: The text includes the well-known "Uvasaggaharam Stotra" by Acharya Bhutabali, which is a central piece for invoking Lord Parshvanatha's protective powers. The Gujarati translation and transliteration of this stotra are present.
• Additional Prayers and Yantras: Beyond the core "Uvasagga Haram" stotra, there are other stotras and Yantras, indicating a broader collection of devotional practices related to Jainism, particularly those associated with protection and prosperity.

Overall Significance:

The "Prachin Uvasagga Haram Stotra" is a devotional text in Jainism, particularly for followers of Lord Parshvanatha. It serves as a practical guide for individuals seeking solace, protection, and blessings through the recitation of sacred mantras and hymns. The inclusion of Yantras further enhances its purpose as a tool for spiritual and material well-being. The publication details suggest a historical context and likely a specific regional origin within the Jain community.