Stavan Sangraha Devvandana Sahit

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Stavan Sangraha Devvandana Sahit" by Buddhisagar, published by Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal. The summary is based on the provided pages, which include the title page, publisher information, dedication, preface, acknowledgments, an introductory essay, details of religious events, and the table of contents along with excerpts of the stanzas.

Book Title: Stavan Sangraha (Devvandana Sahit) - Collection of Devotional Chants (with Devotion) Author: Shrimad Buddhisagar Surishwarji (Jainacharya, Yoganishtha, Kaviratna) Publisher: Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal

Overall Purpose and Content:

The book is a collection of devotional hymns (stanzas or stavan) and prayers primarily intended for Jain religious practices, specifically for Devavandana (worship of Tirthankaras and other enlightened beings). It aims to guide devotees in their spiritual practices, foster devotion, detachment (vairagya), and love for the divine (Prabhu). The collection includes various categories of stanzas dedicated to different Tirthankaras, important Jain holy places, and philosophical concepts.

Key Themes and Sections:

1. Author and His Legacy: The preface highlights Acharya Shrimad Buddhisagar Surishwarji as a renowned Jain scholar, yogi, poet, and prolific author who penned over 108 books on topics like Spirituality, Ashtanga Yoga, Vedanta, and Upanishads. His works are revered for their deep spiritual insights and literary merit. The book is presented as a legacy of his spiritual teachings.

2. Purpose of the Collection: The Stavan Sangraha aims to:

   • Provide the detailed rituals and verses (stavana, stuti) used in Devavandana and Chaityavandana (worship of temples and images of Tirthankaras).
   • Unify scattered devotional verses from various texts into a single accessible volume for the benefit of readers.
   • Impart spiritual knowledge, encourage pure conduct (shuddha kriya), and foster devotion and detachment.
   • Offer insights from great souls like Anandghanji, Chidanandji, Devchandji, and Padmavyajiji.

3. Content Breakdown:

   • Devavandana Vidhi (Worship Rituals): The book meticulously outlines the procedures for daily worship, including specific Chaityavandanas (salutations to temples) and Stutis (praises) for different occasions like Chaturmasi (four-month observance), Ekadashi (eleventh day of the lunar fortnight), Amavasya (new moon), and various festival days.
   • Stavans and Stutis: The core of the book consists of a vast collection of hymns dedicated to:
     • Tirthankaras: Individual stanzas are offered to each of the 24 Tirthankaras, highlighting their virtues, spiritual attainments, and the essence of their teachings. Examples include stanzas for Rushabhdev, Ajitnath, Sambhavnath, Padmanabh, Parshvanath, Mahavir, Neminath, etc.
     • Sacred Places: Hymns are dedicated to prominent Jain pilgrimage sites like Siddhachal (Shatrunjaya), Girnar, Abu, Ashtapad, and Sammet Shikhar, emphasizing their spiritual significance.
     • Philosophical Concepts: The verses often delve into Jain philosophy, discussing concepts like Dravyanuyoga (metaphysical analysis), Atmajnana (self-knowledge), Dhyana (meditation), Samata (equanimity), Bhakti (devotion), Vairagya (detachment), and the path to liberation (moksha).
     • Navapada: There are specific stanzas related to the Navapada (nine supreme entities in Jainism).
     • Praise for Gurus: The collection includes stanzas honoring esteemed Gurus, including the author's spiritual lineage and other revered figures.
   • Praise for Acharya Buddhisagar: The preface and other sections express deep reverence for Acharya Buddhisagar, emphasizing his role as a spiritual guide and prolific writer dedicated to spreading Jain knowledge.
   • Theological Underpinnings: The stanzas often reflect core Jain beliefs such as the soul's inherent divinity, the nature of Karma, the path to liberation through knowledge, conduct, and penance, and the importance of equanimity. The author often uses metaphorical language and poetic expressions to convey profound spiritual truths.

4. Compilation and Context:

   • The book was compiled by the Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal, with the first edition published in V.S. 1982 (2451 Veer Samvat) or 1926 CE.
   • The publication was supported by generous donors, highlighting the community's commitment to spiritual and educational endeavors.
   • The text emphasizes that the stanzas are composed with deep spiritual intent, aiming to inspire and guide the aspirant towards self-realization.

5. Specific Events Mentioned: The text also includes historical accounts of significant Jain religious events, notably:

   • Ghodhavi Anjanashalaka and Pratishtha Mahotsav: Detailed description of the consecration ceremonies for temples and idols in Ghodhavi, highlighting the generous contributions and spiritual leadership of Seth Amritlal Kevaldas and the guidance of Acharya Buddhisagar.
   • Sanand Shri Padmaprabhuji Pratishtha Mahotsav: Account of the consecration ceremony for the idol of Shri Padmaprabhuji in Sanand, emphasizing the collaborative efforts and devotional spirit of the community.

6. Emphasis on the Author's Philosophy: Throughout the stanzas, Acharya Buddhisagar's philosophy is evident:

   • The Importance of Self-Knowledge: Many verses stress the need to realize the true nature of the soul and its inherent power.
   • Detachment from the Material: The stanzas often advise renouncing attachment to worldly pleasures and possessions to achieve lasting spiritual bliss.
   • The Power of Devotion: The collection consistently highlights the transformative power of devotion, meditation, and righteous conduct in overcoming karma and attaining liberation.
   • Equanimity: The importance of maintaining equanimity in all circumstances is a recurring theme, reflecting the Jain ideal of samata.
   • Holistic Approach: The stanzas blend philosophical depth with devotional fervor, making spiritual concepts accessible and inspiring.

In essence, "Stavan Sangraha Devvandana Sahit" is a profound spiritual anthology that serves as a guide for Jain devotional practices, offering a rich collection of hymns, prayers, and philosophical reflections compiled by the esteemed Acharya Buddhisagar Surishwarji. The book is a testament to his deep spiritual insights and his dedication to enriching the Jain spiritual tradition.