Siddhibhuvan Prachin Stavan Sangraha

This document is a collection of Jain devotional songs (Stavans) titled "Siddhibhuvan Prachin Stavan Sangraha" (Collection of Ancient Devotional Songs of Siddhibhuvan).

Here's a breakdown of its content and significance:

Title: Siddhibhuvan Prachin Stavan Sangraha (સિદિજૂન પ્રાચીન સ્તવન સંગ્રહ)

Compiler: Pujyapada Gurudev Muniraj Shri Bhuvanvijayji Maharaj (પૂજ્યપાદ ગુરૂદેવ મુનિરાજશ્રી ભુવનવિજયજી મહારાજ)

Editor: Muniraj Shri Bhuvanvijayantvasi Muni Jambuvijay (મુનિરાજશ્રી ભુવનવિજયાન્તવાસી મુનિ જંબૂવિજય)

Publisher: Keshavji Hirji Gogari, Mumbai (શિવજી હીરજી ગેગરી, મુંબઈ)

Publication Date: First Edition: September 1985

Key Content and Themes:

• Compilation of Ancient Devotional Songs: The primary purpose of this book is to gather and preserve ancient devotional songs, likely composed by revered saints and scholars, dedicated to various Jain Tirthankaras and spiritual figures.
• Devotion to Tirthankaras: The majority of the book consists of Stavans dedicated to the 24 Jain Tirthankaras, starting with Shri Rishabhdev Swami and concluding with Bhagwan Mahavir Swami. Each Tirthankara has dedicated Stavans, praising their virtues, qualities, and spiritual significance.
• Biographical Information: The introductory sections provide a brief biographical sketch of the compiler, Muniraj Shri Bhuvanvijayji Maharaj. It details his birth, initiation, spiritual journey, and his peaceful demise at the holy site of Shankheshwarji. It also mentions the editor, Muni Jambuvijay.
• Personal Connection and Dedication: The editor, Muni Jambuvijay, expresses his deep devotion to his Guru, Muniraj Shri Bhuvanvijayji Maharaj, and his joy in bringing this collection to light. He shares the circumstances that led to the publication, including the support of Shri Keshavji bhai Gogari.
• Spiritual and Philosophical Content: The Stavans likely contain profound spiritual insights, emphasizing concepts like devotion, detachment, karma, liberation (moksha), and the path to spiritual enlightenment as taught in Jainism.
• Structure of the Book:
  • Invocation: The book begins with invocations to various revered figures, including Shri Rishabhdev Swami, Shri Shankheshwar Parshvanath, Shri Mahavir Swami, Shri Gautam Swami, and Shri Sadgurudev.
  • "Kinchit Vaktavya" (A Little to Say): This section includes a heartfelt foreword by Muni Jambuvijay, detailing the background of the compilation and the life of his Guru.
  • List of Contents (Anukramanika): This section outlines the Stavans dedicated to each Tirthankara and other general devotional pieces.
  • Stavans for Each Tirthankara: The bulk of the book features the Stavans, presented in Gujarati. The Stavans for Rishabhdevji are extensive, suggesting his foundational importance.
  • Errata (Shuddhipatrak): A section for corrections is included, indicating meticulous attention to detail in the printing process.

Significance:

• Preservation of Jain Heritage: This collection serves as a valuable repository of ancient Jain devotional literature, helping to preserve the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of Jainism.
• Spiritual Guidance and Inspiration: The Stavans are intended to inspire devotion and provide spiritual guidance to readers, fostering a deeper connection with the Tirthankaras and Jain principles.
• Commemoration of a Guru: The publication is also a tribute to the spiritual legacy of Muniraj Shri Bhuvanvijayji Maharaj, whose devotion to the compilation of these songs is highlighted.
• Accessibility: By publishing this collection, the compiler and editor make these ancient devotional songs accessible to a wider audience, allowing for their study and recitation for spiritual benefit.

In essence, "Siddhibhuvan Prachin Stavan Sangraha" is a significant work for the Jain community, offering a collection of profound devotional poetry that illuminates the spiritual path and venerates the Tirthankaras.