Sankheshwar Stavanavali

This document is the "Shankheshwar Stavanavali" (Collection of Devotional Songs to Shankheshwar) compiled by Muniraj Shri Vishalvijayji and published by Yashovijay Jain Granthmala. The book is dedicated to the glory of Lord Parshvanath, particularly as worshipped at the Shankheshwar pilgrimage site.

Here's a summary of the content based on the provided pages:

Key Features and Content:

• Compilation and Publication: The book is a collection of devotional songs (stanzas, couplets, hymns) dedicated to Lord Parshvanath, specifically in his form at Shankheshwar. It was compiled by Muniraj Shri Vishalvijayji and published by Shri Yashovijay Jain Granthmala, Gandi Chowk, Bhavnagar. The first edition was priced at 8 annas and published in Vikram Samvat 2003 (1946 CE).
• Inspiration and Purpose: The preface (Prakashkiya Vaktavya) explains that the intention behind this compilation was to make popular devotional pieces related to Shankheshwar accessible to the general public. It acknowledges the inspiration from Purani Muni Shri Jayantvijayji Maharaj, who desired such a collection.
• Biographical Sketch: A significant portion of the initial pages is dedicated to the "Jivanrekha" (Life Sketch) of Smt. Jethibai, the mother of the well-known Jain Acharya Shri Jayantvijayji Maharaj. It details her birth, family background, education, marriage, family life, and spiritual journey, highlighting her devotion and adherence to Jain principles.
• Table of Contents (Vishayanukram): The book systematically lists the various types of devotional compositions included:
  • Preface
  • Life sketch of Smt. Jethibai
  • Sanskrit stanzas (Stuti padyo)
  • Gujarati couplets (Stuti duhao)
  • Sanskrit Chaityavandan (Praise of temples/icons)
  • Gujarati Chaityavandan
  • Sanskrit Stavan (Hymns)
  • Gujarati Stavan
  • Hindi Stavan
  • Sanskrit Stutis (Praises)
  • Gujarati Stutis
  • Various meters like Chhand, Lavani, Pad, etc.
• Devotional Content: The majority of the book consists of devotional hymns and praises addressed to Lord Shankheshwar Parshvanath. These are presented in various languages (primarily Sanskrit and Gujarati, with some Hindi) and poetic meters. The hymns typically praise:
  • Lord Parshvanath's divine attributes: His omniscience, compassion, power, beauty, and his role as a liberator from suffering and worldly attachments.
  • Miracles and legends associated with Shankheshwar: This includes references to his divine manifestations, the legends of his worship, and the benefits devotees receive.
  • The Shankheshwar pilgrimage site: The sanctity and importance of the site are often mentioned.
  • The power of devotion and prayer: The hymns emphasize the transformative power of remembering and praying to Lord Parshvanath.
• Errata (Ashuddhi Shuddhipatraka): A page is dedicated to correcting printing errors, indicating careful proofreading.
• List of Books by Muni Shri Jayantvijayji: At the very end, there's a list of books authored by Muni Shri Jayantvijayji, highlighting his scholarly contributions to Jainism.

Overall Theme:

The "Shankheshwar Stavanavali" is a significant devotional text for Jains, particularly for those who venerate Lord Parshvanath at the sacred site of Shankheshwar. It serves as a repository of hymns and praises that facilitate spiritual connection and devotion to the Tirthankara. The inclusion of the life sketch of the compiler's mother adds a personal and devotional touch to the publication.