Swayambhu Stotra Chaturvinshati Jinstuti - Book Summary

This document appears to be a Marathi translation and commentary on the Swayambhu Stotra Chaturvinshati Jinstuti (Hymn to the Twenty-four Jinas) by Samantabhadracharya, with a Sanskrit commentary by Prabhachandracharya, translated and published by Jinaspara Parshwanath Phadkule and Sakharam Nemchand Doshi of Solapur.

The provided text is a comprehensive introduction and partial translation/explanation of the Swayambhu Stotra. Here's a breakdown of the key themes and content:

I. Introduction and Publisher's Note:

Title and Authorship: Clearly states the title of the work and the key figures involved: Samantabhadracharya (author), Prabhachandracharya (Sanskrit commentator), and Jinaspara Parshwanath Phadkule (Marathi translator).
Publishers: Identifies Sakharam Nemchand Doshi as the publisher and Pt. Vashidhar Udayraj of Shri Dhar Press, Solapur, as the printer.
Historical Context of Jain Literature: The introduction emphasizes the significant role of kings and wealthy patrons in the development and propagation of Jain literature throughout history. It cites examples of prominent Acharyas who were gurus to kings, or even rulers themselves.
Importance of Literature: It highlights that the progress of a religion, country, or society is dependent on its literature. A stagnant literary tradition leads to the backwardness of the society. Good literature dispels ignorance and promotes progress.
Jain Literature in Different Languages: Mentions that Jain literature is primarily found in Prakrit, Sanskrit, Kannada, Tamil, and Hindi. While Hindi literature is often translations, Kannada and Tamil works are largely original. However, the introduction laments the meager state of Jain literature in Marathi, linking it to the ignorance prevalent in the Marathi-speaking Jain community.
Call to Action: It strongly urges scholars and the Jain community to actively promote and create more Jain literature in the Marathi language to overcome this deficiency.
The Swayambhu Stotra: The introduction then focuses on the Swayambhu Stotra, calling it a unique gem in Sanskrit literature. It notes that while the stotra praises the twenty-four Tirthankaras, it also beautifully incorporates philosophical discussions and Tattvas (principles). It is deemed excellent from the perspectives of religion, logic, literature, and grammar.
Authorship Confirmation: The name "Samantabhadra" is revealed in the last verses of the stotra, confirming Samantabhadracharya as its author.
Commentary by Prabhachandracharya: Mentions Prabhachandracharya's concise yet insightful commentary. It also notes the similarity between the introductory verses of the Swayambhu Stotra and Prabhachandracharya's Prameyakamalamartanda, suggesting the same author for both.
Translator's Gratitude and Plea: The translator expresses gratitude to his teacher, Pt. Vashidharji, and to Raoji Sakharam Doshi for their inspiration and support. He also humbly requests forgiveness for any errors in his translation, acknowledging human fallibility.
Date: The publication date is given as Paush Shukla Saptami, Sunday, Veer Nirvana 2447, Vikram Samvat 1976.

II. Discourse on Samantabhadracharya:

This section is a detailed and extensive biographical and literary overview of Samantabhadracharya, showcasing his immense stature and contributions to Jainism.

Greatness of Samantabhadracharya: He is described as a supremely wise and eloquent Acharya who elevated Jainism through his scholarship and debates with scholars of other faiths. Many subsequent great Acharyas praised him in their works.
Endorsements by Other Acharyas: The text provides numerous quotes and references from various prominent Acharyas like Pujyapada (mentioning "Chatushtayam Samantabhadrasya" in Jainendra Vyakarana), Jinacharya (calling Samantabhadra's words as profound as Mahavir's), Jinadatta Suri, Dheeranandi, Yaadi Bhaasinha Ravi, Vasunandi, Akalankadeva, Vidyananda, and Shubhandra, all praising Samantabhadra's intellect, poetic skill, argumentative prowess, and the profound nature of his teachings.
Key Works of Samantabhadracharya:
- Devāgama Stotra (Apta Mimamsa): Described as a stotra praising Jineshvara and refuting the philosophies of Sankhya, Nyaya, and Buddhism. It's considered a very important work, with commentaries by Akalankadeva (Ashtashati) and Vidyananda (Ashtasahastri).
- Gandhahasti Mahabhāshya: A commentary on Umaswami's Tattvartha Sutra. Its colossal size (84,000 verses) is mentioned. The text argues that the Devāgama Stotra serves as the mangalacharan (auspicious invocation) for this commentary, based on its opening verses and scholarly arguments. It also refutes the notion that it's mere folklore.
- Yuktyanushasana: A work praised for its beautiful commentary by Vidyananda, also considered a form of praise.
- Jina Shataka (or Stuti Vidya): A hymn to the twenty-four Tirthankaras composed with complex wordplay and poetic structures (like murajbandha, chakrabandha, etc.). Its difficulty necessitated a commentary by Narashimha Bhatta. The text also notes that Samantabhadracharya may have used the name "Shantivarma" in this work, suggesting it was his birth name, and "Samantabhadra" his monastic name. The mention of "son of Uragpuradhipati" suggests he might have been a prince.
- Ratnakaranda Shravakachara: A manual for lay followers, also commented on by Prabhachandracharya.
- Karma-prahruta Commentary: An 18,000-verse commentary on the Karma-prahruta, mentioned by Indranandi.
- Other potential works: Tattvanushasana (availability uncertain) and a grammar (reference in Jainendra Vyakarana). The Jivasiddhi is also mentioned as a potential work, though its availability is also uncertain.
Samantabhadracharya's Time Period: The text discusses various scholarly opinions on his period, ranging from the 2nd century CE to the 6th century CE, but argues for a period likely around the 3rd or 4th century CE, based on his relationship with Pujyapada, Akalanka, Vidyananda, and Prabhachandra.
Samantabhadracharya's Life and Miracles: The text recounts biographical details, including his alleged transformations into various religious figures (Kanchi muni, Shaiv tapasvi, Buddhist monk, Vaishnav sadhu) as part of his exploration and debate strategy, all while maintaining his true Jain faith. It also narrates the miracle of the Chandraprabha Pratima (image of Chandraprabha Tirthankara) appearing when he recited stotras. His prowess in debates and victory over other philosophers are highlighted.
His Lineage: Mentions his disciple Shivakoti, who authored the Bhagavati Aradhana.

III. The Swayambhu Stotra - Verse by Verse Explanation:

The latter part of the text begins the detailed explanation of the Swayambhu Stotra itself, verse by verse. Each Tirthankara is taken up in order, with their name, a summary of their key virtues and actions as described in the stotra, and the Marathi translation of the relevant verses.

Adinath (Vrishabhanatha) - Verse 1: Explains the meaning of "Svayambhu" (self-manifested) and "Bhuta-hita" (benefiting beings), relating it to Tirthankaras' inherent knowledge and compassion.
Ajitanatha - Verse 2: Explains the significance of the name "Ajita" (unconquerable) in relation to the Tirthankara's strength and influence, and how his followers achieved victories.
Sambhavanatha - Verse 3: Discusses the concept of "Akasmika Vaidya" (unexpected physician) in relation to the Tirthankara curing the suffering of the world.
Abhinanthanatha - Verse 4: Focuses on the meaning of the name "Abhinandana" (one who causes joy or progress) and how the Tirthankara brought prosperity and advancement.
Sumatinatha - Verse 5: Highlights the importance of "Yukti" (logic) and "Naya" (perspective) in understanding the truth, and how Sumatinatha's teachings exemplify this.
Padmaprabha - Verse 6: Explains the name "Padmaprabha" (radiance like a lotus) and relates it to purity and auspiciousness.
Suparshvanatha - Verse 7: Discusses the meaning of "Shva" (health) and how the Tirthankara's teachings lead to ultimate well-being.
Chandraprabha - Verse 8: Explains the significance of the name "Chandraprabha" (moonlight-like radiance) and its association with purity and calming influence.
Pushpadanta (Suvidhinatha) - Verse 9: Emphasizes the importance of Syadvada (the doctrine of manifold predicaments) in understanding the true nature of reality.
Shitalanatha - Verse 10: Connects the name "Shitala" (cool) to the soothing nature of his teachings that alleviate the suffering of the world.
Shreyanasantha - Verse 11: Highlights the Tirthankara's name "Shreyas" (auspiciousness) and his role in guiding beings towards the path of liberation.
Vasupujya - Verse 12: Explains the significance of the name "Vasupujya" and his worship by divine beings.
Vimalanatha - Verse 13: Discusses the Tirthankara's name "Vimala" (pure) and his immaculate nature.
Anantanatha - Verse 14: Explains the name "Ananta" (infinite) in relation to his infinite knowledge and power.
Dharmanatha - Verse 15: Focuses on the name "Dharma" (righteousness) and the Tirthankara's role in establishing the path of righteousness.
Shantinatha - Verse 16: Explains the name "Shanti" (peace) and the Tirthankara's role in bringing peace to the world.
Kunthunatha - Verse 17: Discusses the name "Kunthu" and his compassion for all beings.
Aranatha - Verse 18: Explains the name "Ara" and the Tirthankara's victory over internal enemies like lust and anger.
Mallinatha - Verse 19: Explains the name "Malli" and his victory over the god of love.
Munisuvratanatha - Verse 20: Highlights the significance of the name "Munisuvrata" (observing strict vows) and his adherence to asceticism.
Naminatha - Verse 21: Discusses the name "Nami" and his teachings on Syadvada.
Neminatha - Verse 22: Explains the name "Nemi" and his mastery over worldly affairs and his association with the divine circle.
Parshvanatha - Verse 23: Describes his bravery and resilience against persecution.
Mahavira - Verse 24: Celebrates his ultimate triumph and liberation.

Overall Purpose:

The document serves as a valuable resource for understanding the Swayambhu Stotra and appreciating the profound contributions of Samantabhadracharya to Jain philosophy and literature. It also aims to inspire the Marathi-speaking Jain community to engage more actively in promoting their religious heritage through literary endeavors in their own language.