Shubh Sangraha Part 07 - Book Summary

The text provided is a collection of essays and biographical sketches from the Jain publication "Shubh Sangraha Part 07," authored by Akhandanand Bhikshu and published by Sastu Sahitya Vardhak Karyalay. The catalog link provided is for Jainqq.org. The content spans across various pages, starting with promotional and publishing information, followed by a detailed table of contents and then several individual articles.

Here's a summary of the key aspects and some of the articles covered:

Publishing and Context:

Title: Shubh Sangraha, Part 7 (शुभ संग्रह-भाग ७मो)
Author: Akhandanand Bhikshu (अखंडानंद भिक्षु)
Publisher: Sastu Sahitya Vardhak Karyalay (सस्तु साहित्य वर्धक कार्यालय)
Series: Part of a larger "Vividh Granthamala" (विविध ग्रंथमाला) series.
Publication Year: 1987 (printed in Chaitra-1987)
Format: The text includes a preface from the publisher, an errata page (शुद्धिपत्र) listing corrections, and extensive indexes (general, subject-wise).
Content: The book is a compilation of 129 articles (લેખ).

Key Themes and Article Summaries (based on titles and brief descriptions):

The collection covers a wide range of topics, indicating a focus on biography, history, spirituality, social issues, and general knowledge, presented from a perspective potentially influenced by Jain principles or presented within a Jain publication context.

Biographies and Historical Figures: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to biographical sketches of notable individuals, spanning different religions, regions, and time periods.
- Sufi Amba Prasad (सद्गत देशभक्त सूफी अंबाप्रसाद): Described as a true patriot who sacrificed everything for the country, even facing imprisonment and hardship. His work was recognized and celebrated in Iran. He was born in 1858 in Muradabad and was known for his influential writing, including an Urdu weekly "Jam-ul-Uloom."
- Raja Jaymallsinhji (भक्तराज राजा जयमल्लसिंहजी): A devoted king from the Hindi tradition, known for his righteousness, virtuous conduct, and unwavering devotion to God. He was described as being deeply immersed in divine worship to the point of neglecting worldly affairs.
- Mahatma Kaanad (महात्मा कणाद): Mentioned as a philosopher, likely referring to the ancient Indian sage credited with the Vaisheshika school of philosophy.
- Nila Devi (भक्रियानुं नीलादेवीनी पतिभक्ति): Highlighted for her devotion to her husband.
- Chittaranjan Das (देशबंधु चित्तरंजन दास): A prominent leader mentioned for his role in national movements.
- Kunti Devi (श्रीमती कुंतीदेवी): A woman of virtue and a respected figure.
- Swami Jhamdas (स्वामी झामदास): A spiritual figure.
- Shankarlal Maheshwari: Recalled for his memories, suggesting a focus on personal recollections.
- Sister Rukhi (परोपकारी गंगीसवरूप रुखीबहेन): Praised for her charitable work, particularly in serving birds in Ahmedabad, and her efforts to establish public water facilities.
- Jesus Christ: An article on his unknown life.
- Paderewski (पौलेंड का त्राता–गायक पैडरूस्की): A pianist and Polish patriot, described as a savior and singer who aided Poland.
- Swami Dayanand: Mentioned in an article reflecting on his pious memory.
- Kumaril Bhatt (कुमारिलभट्ट): A figure in Indian philosophy and religious debates.
- Mahatma Jyotiba Phule (maybe referencing an article on social reformers like Jyotiba Phule): Though not explicitly named, the theme of social reform is present.
- Maharana Pratap (महाराणा प्रताप): Celebrated for his bravery and anniversaries.
- Pandit Dwivedi (पूज्य द्विवेदीजी): Mentioned for his ideal donations.
- Anathalay (अनाथालय): Articles on orphanages and their work.
- Mahavir Swami (श्री महावीर स्वामी): Likely a biographical piece on the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism.
- Shraddhanand Orphanage (श्रद्धानंद अनाथ महिलाश्रम): An article focusing on this institution.
- Narayan Sena (नारायणी सेना): An article possibly about a women's organization or movement.
- Swami Vishuddhanand (एक हयात सिद्घ योगी स्वामी विशुद्धानंदजी): Described as a living yogi, with a focus on his spiritual powers and journey.
- Mahatma Aisha (माहाता शैसा): A figure from Sri Lanka (referencing historical context of the island), depicted as a successful businessman who overcame adversity through hard work and integrity, eventually becoming a wealthy philanthropist.
- Mahatma Kaanad (महात्मा कणाद): Likely refers to the Indian sage Kaanad.
- Bhaktaraya Raja Jaimallsinghji (भक्तराज राजा जयमल्लसिंहजी): A king known for his devotion to Lord Krishna, his unwavering principles, and his spiritual practices that influenced his reign.
- Sadvichar (सद्विचार): Likely articles offering wise thoughts or principles.
- Vibhavshali Hindusthan (वैभवशाली हिंदुस्तान): An extensive article detailing the past prosperity of India, its industries, trade, and the decline thereof, likely highlighting the impact of foreign rule.
- Antyaj Sadhu Nand (अंत्यज साधु नंद): A story about a sage from the "untouchable" community who, through spiritual strength and righteous action, gained access to temples and is revered as an incarnated soul. The article emphasizes that purity comes from actions, not birth.
- Guru Gobind Singh (गुरु गविंद सिंह): An article on his birth anniversary, likely celebrating his contributions to Sikhism and his emphasis on spiritual strength and righteousness.
- Shankar Lal Maheshwari (शंकरलाल माहेश्वरનાં संस्मरणो): Recollections of a distinguished scholar and poet, known for his exceptional memory, poetic skills, and dedication to Sanskrit and traditional Indian values.
- Kunti Devi (श्रीमती कुन्तीदेवी): Described as an epitome of virtue and knowledge, who also practiced spiritual disciplines and was a proponent of Vedic knowledge.
- Bhagavati Parvati (भगवती पार्वती): A biographical sketch of the Hindu goddess Parvati, highlighting her devotion, strength, and role as a divine mother.
- Swami Jhamdas (स्वामी झामदास): A spiritual figure associated with hymns and poems.
- Bhaktikani Niladevi (भक्तिणी नीळादेवीनी पतिभक्ति): A woman noted for her devotion to her husband.
- Veer Balā Madeleine (वीर बाला मेडलिन): A story of bravery, likely of a young heroine.
- Indian Women and Fashion (भारतीय महिलाये और फेशन): An article discussing the evolution or impact of fashion on Indian women.
- Cinema and Education (सीनेमा और शिक्षाप्रचार): An exploration of how cinema is used for educational purposes.
- Tirthankara Parshvanath (तीर्थंकर पारशनाथ): An article on the 23rd Jain Tirthankara.
- Bhavdasji (भावदासजी): Likely a devotional figure.
- Yogeshwar Dayanand (योगीश्वर दयानंद): A piece reflecting on the legacy of Swami Dayanand Saraswati.
- Ramayana's Shakti (रामायण शक्ति): An article discussing the power or strength derived from the epic Ramayana.
- Human Love (मानवी प्रेम विषे): An essay exploring the concept of human love.
- History Vision (इतिहासदर्शन): An article offering a perspective on history.
- The Sculptor's Demise (शिल्पी का अवसान): A piece potentially about the death of an artist or sculptor.
- Lord Krishna (पुरुषोत्तम श्रीकृष्ण): An article on the divine figure of Krishna.
- Wife's Service (पतिसेवा): An essay on the devotion and service of a wife.
- Upnishad Incident (उपनिषद्ने एक प्रसंग): A narrative from the Upanishads.
- From the Deathbed (मरणपथीयेथी): A reflective piece on mortality.
- True Giver of Annadata (साचे अन्नदाता !): An article perhaps about a true benefactor.
- Diwan Hardaul (दिवान हरदौल): A historical or biographical account of Diwan Hardaul.
- Aryavarta's Ideal Youth - Lav (आर्यावर्तने आर्दश युवक-लव): A piece on the ideal youth of ancient India, potentially referring to the character Lav.
- Sadgat Motibhai Darji (सद्गत मोतीभाई दरजी): Recollections of a deceased individual named Motibhai Darji.
- Janamashtami and Gambling (जन्माष्टमीने जुगार): An article possibly discussing the intersection of religious festivals and social issues.
- Surya Namaskar (सूर्य नमस्कार): An article on the practice of Surya Namaskar.
- Maharana Pratap's Anniversary (महारणा प्रताप की जयंती और स्मारक): A piece commemorating Maharana Pratap.
- Pandit Dwivedi's Ideal Donation (पूज्य द्विवेदीजी का आदर्श दान): An article highlighting the exemplary generosity of Pandit Dwivedi.
- Orphanage (अनाथालय): A piece likely about the work of an orphanage.
- America's Ideal Gymnastic Institution (अमरीका की एक आदर्श व्यायामसंस्था): An article on a health and fitness institution in America.
- Czechoslovakia's National Revival (जेकेस्लोवाकिया का व्यायामठारा राष्ट्रोद्धार): A piece on the role of physical fitness in national resurgence.
- London Ashram (लन्दन का एक आश्रम): An article about an ashram in London.
- Official's Heart Change (अधिकारीने हृदयपलट): A story about a transformation in an official.
- Thoughts on Libraries (पुस्तकालय विषे विचारे): An essay on the importance and function of libraries.
- Radhaswami School of Thought Criticism (राधास्वासी मत के साधन की समालोचना): A critical examination of the Radhaswami philosophy.
- Our Ashram System (आपणी आश्रमव्यवस्था): An article on the structure and management of ashrams.
- Pandit Motilal Nehru (पंडित मोतीलाल नेहरू): A biographical piece on the prominent Indian leader.
- The Doubting Soul Perishes (संशयात्मा विनश्यति): A philosophical or ethical reflection.
- When Hunger Awakens (क्षुधातें जाग्या ત્યારે): A story about overcoming hunger or a difficult situation.
- Preventing the Production of Uncultured Offspring (संस्कारहीन संतति के उत्पादन को अटकाने की जरूरत): A piece on the importance of upbringing and its societal impact.
- Jewel Garland (रत्नमाला): Likely a collection of valuable or inspiring thoughts.
- How to Gain Divine Strength? (सात्त्विक बल केवी રીતે મેળવી શકાય?): An article on acquiring spiritual strength.
- Eugenics Society (युजेनिक सोसायटि): A piece on the concept of eugenics.
- Disciples of Jagadguru (चा देवीना चेटायोचेतशे के?): An article possibly about the followers or disciples of a spiritual leader.
- Miracle of Radio (रेडियोने चमत्कार): A piece on the impact and marvel of radio technology.
- Influence of English Education (अंगरेजी शिक्षा का भारतीय सभ्यता पर कुप्रभाव): A critical analysis of the impact of English education on Indian civilization.
- Method of Making Murderers into Good Citizens (खुनीओने उत्तम नागरिक बनाने की रीत): A piece discussing rehabilitation or societal transformation.
- Milk-giving Tree in America (अमेरिका में दूध देनेवाला वृक्ष): An article on a unique natural phenomenon.
- Garden of Discernment (विवेक-वाटिका): A philosophical or ethical piece on wisdom.
- Cold Splashes (ठंडे छीट): Possibly a metaphorical or literal piece on refreshing ideas or water.
- Poverty Herb (गरीबी बूटी): An article on a remedy for poverty, likely metaphorical.
- Twenty Principles of Swami Vivekananda on Women's Life (स्त्री जीवन विषे स्वामी विवेकानंदना वीस सूत्रा): An exposition of Swami Vivekananda's views on women's lives.
- Mother's Pain (मातृवेदना): A piece on the suffering of mothers.
- Sun of Freedom (स्वतंत्रता के सूर): A reflection on freedom.
- Dayalbagh of Agra (आग्रा के दयालबाग): An article about a specific place or community.
- Ganesh Shankar's Sacrifice behind Communal Unity (कोमी एकता पाछल गणेश शंकरनुं आत्मसमर्पण): A piece on the sacrifice of Ganesh Shankar for communal harmony.
Spiritual and Religious Themes: Several articles touch upon religious and spiritual concepts, likely from a Jain or broader Indian philosophical perspective.
- Topics include: virtue, vice, righteous conduct, spiritual liberation, devotion, meditation, and the cycle of birth and death.
- Figures like Mahatma Kans (कण? possibly Kans), Niladevi's devotion (नीलादेवीनी पतिभक्ति), Swami Jhamdas, Tirthankara Parshvanath, Swami Dayanand, Lord Krishna (पुरुषोत्तम श्रीकृण), and Lord Mahavir (श्री महावीर स्वामी) are likely discussed in relation to spiritual ideals.
Social and Cultural Commentary: The book also addresses social issues and cultural phenomena.
- Themes like national unity, the role of women in society, the impact of foreign education, the decline of traditional industries, the importance of libraries, and societal problems like unemployment are touched upon.
- Articles such as "Vibhavshali Hindusthan" (A Glorious India) seem to offer a historical perspective on India's past prosperity and its subsequent decline, possibly lamenting the loss of traditional industries and wealth.
Science, Art, and Health: The collection includes articles on scientific advancements, artistic expressions, and health-related topics.
- Topics range from miracles of radio and the science behind airplanes to health practices like "Surya Namaskar" (Sun Salutations) and the potential benefits of certain herbs.
General Knowledge and Anecdotes: Some articles appear to be general knowledge pieces, historical anecdotes, or inspirational stories.
- Examples include articles on historical figures, unique plants, and the history of libraries. The book also contains a detailed table of contents and an errata, indicating a scholarly approach to compilation.

Overall Impression:

"Shubh Sangraha Part 07" appears to be a rich and diverse compilation aimed at educating and inspiring its readers. It draws from various fields, including biography, history, spirituality, and social commentary, presenting them in a way that encourages reflection on virtues, national pride, and spiritual development. The emphasis on character, devotion, and societal well-being suggests a value system that promotes ethical living and spiritual upliftment. The inclusion of figures from different religious backgrounds (like Jesus Christ and Hazrat Muhammad) indicates a broad perspective, though the publication itself is Jain.