Stotratrayi Saklarhat Stotra Virjin Stotra Mahadeo Stotra

This document is an introduction to and contains the text of "Stotratrayi," a compilation of three hymns composed by the renowned Jain scholar Acharya Hemchandracharya. The publication includes commentaries and translations in Hindi by Muni Shri Prabodhchandravijay, with a special Sanskrit and Hindi commentary titled "Kirtikala" by Panyas Shri Kirtichandravijayji Ganivar.

Here's a breakdown of the content:

Book Title: Stotratrayi (Sakalārhat Stotra, Virajina Stotra, Mahadeva Stotra) Authors: Hemchandracharya (original hymns), Kirtichandravijay (Kirtikala commentary), Prabodhchandravijay (Editor/Translator) Publisher: Bhailalbhai Ambalal Petladwala

Key Features and Content:

• Foreword (Prakashakiy): The publication begins with a foreword by Bhailalbhai Ambalal Petladwala, highlighting the significance of Acharya Hemchandracharya's works. It mentions that Panyas Shri Kirtichandravijayji Ganivar's "Kirtikala" commentary, previously appreciated for other works like "Dvatrinshika Dvayi" and "Veetaraag Stava," is also included with these three hymns. The foreword emphasizes the clarity, depth, and devotional essence of the "Kirtikala" commentary, noting its value for understanding the nuances of the original Sanskrit verses. It also mentions the inclusion of Hindi translations for each verse, making the text accessible to a wider audience.

• The Three Hymns (Stotras):

  • Sakalārhat Stotra (सकलाऽर्हत्स्तोत्रम्): This is presented as the invocation or mangalācharaṇa for Hemchandracharya's monumental work, "Triṣaṣṭiśalākāpuruṣacaritra" (Lives of the Sixty-three Great Men). It is stated to be highly revered and integral to Jain practices, including pratikramaṇa rituals. The hymn praises the 24 Tirthankaras, highlighting their divine qualities and their role in establishing Jainism.
  • Virajina Stotra (वीरजिनस्तोत्रम्): This hymn serves as the invocation for Hemchandracharya's "Pariśiṣṭaparva." It is also recited with great respect and devotion, often alongside the Sakalārhat Stotra. This hymn specifically praises Lord Mahavir.
  • Mahadeva Stotra (महादेवस्तोत्रम्): This hymn is described as often being underestimated due to its apparent simplicity. However, the commentary reveals its profound meaning. The foreword highlights that this hymn elucidates the nature of the Supreme Soul (Paramātmā), the inner soul (Antarātmā), and the outer soul (Bāhyātmā). It points out that the final verses of this hymn are particularly well-known and express the Jain philosophy of prioritizing virtues over personality. The commentary is credited with bringing out the deep philosophical content that might have been overlooked in simpler interpretations.

• Commentary and Translation (Kirtikala & Hindi Anuvad): The entire work is enriched by the "Kirtikala" commentary, which provides both Sanskrit explanations and Hindi translations. This dual approach aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the verses, their word meanings, grammatical structures (e.g., analysis of compound words), and the underlying philosophical import. The publisher notes that this detailed explanation helps students and curious readers grasp the meanings without external assistance.

• Publisher and Distribution: The book is published by Bhailalbhai Ambalal Petladwala. The distribution points are listed as JAIN MISSION SOCIETY, Madras, and Shantilal P. Mehta in Madras. The imprint also states that all rights are reserved.

• Editorial and Printing: The editor is Muni Shri Prabodhchandravijay. The printing was done at Ratnam Press, Madras. A correction slip (Shuddhipatra) is included to address any printing errors.

• List of Other Works by Panyas Shri Kirtichandravijayji: The document also lists other significant works by Panyas Shri Kirtichandravijayji that feature the "Kirtikala" commentary, including commentaries on "Dvatrinshika Dvayi," "Veetaraag Stava," and "Adhyatma Sar."

Philosophical and Theological Significance:

The "Stotratrayi" collection, as presented with the "Kirtikala" commentary, delves into core Jain concepts:

• Praise of Tirthankaras: The hymns are primarily devotional, offering praise and seeking blessings from the Tirthankaras, who are considered the perfected souls and guides on the path to liberation.
• Definition of "Mahadeva" in Jainism: The Mahadeva Stotra, in particular, offers a distinctly Jain interpretation of "Mahadeva," equating it with the liberated soul (Siddha) or the highest spiritual state, characterized by detachment, supreme knowledge, and compassion, rather than the popular Hindu deity. It critiques the anthropomorphic and often contradictory depictions of Hindu deities by contrasting them with the pure and virtuous nature of the Jain Tirthankaras.
• Theology of "One Body, Three Parts": The Mahadeva Stotra critically examines the concept of a single deity having multiple forms (Brahma, Vishnu, Maheshvara) found in other traditions, arguing through detailed analysis of their attributes, parentage, birthplaces, and symbolism that such distinctions make the idea of a single, unified deity impossible. It asserts that the true "one body, three parts" refers to the Tirthankara's embodiment of knowledge, conduct, and faith.
• Spiritual Qualities: The hymns and commentary emphasize the qualities that lead to spiritual liberation: detachment, non-violence (ahimsa), compassion, supreme knowledge (kevala-jnana), and virtuous conduct (charitra).

In essence, this publication makes the profound devotional and philosophical teachings of Acharya Hemchandracharya accessible through detailed commentaries and translations, specifically highlighting the unique Jain understanding of spiritual eminence.