Swayambhu Stotram - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Swayambhu Stotram" by Jugalkishor Mukhtar, published by Veer Seva Mandir Trust.

The document provides an in-depth introduction and analysis of the "Swayambhu Stotram," a significant Jain scripture attributed to the venerable Acharya Samantabhadra. The text is presented as a key component of "Samantabhadra Bharati" (the body of Samantabhadra's works) and is a hymn dedicated to the twenty-four Jain Tirthankaras.

Here's a breakdown of the key sections and their content:

1. Title and Author:

Book Title: Swayambhu Stotram
Author: Acharya Samantabhadra (attributed)
Translator and Introducer: Jugalkishor Mukhtar ('Yugveer'), Head of Veer Seva Mandir.
Publisher: Veer Seva Mandir, Sarsawa.
Date of Publication: Ashadha, Veer Samvat 2477 / Vikram Samvat 2008 (July 1951).

2. Structure and Content: The book is organized into several sections, including:

Dedication (Samarpan): A heartfelt dedication by Jugalkishor Mukhtar to Acharya Samantabhadra, expressing his deep gratitude and personal connection to the work.
Auspicious Outcome (Sufal): An anecdote describing how a donation from a devotee, made in memory of Samantabhadra for the publication of this book, led to the recovery of his sick son.
Editorial Statement (Prakashkiya Vaktavya): An explanation from Jugalkishor Mukhtar about the long delay in publishing the book due to his desire to write a thorough introduction and his personal circumstances.
Correction of Errors (Shuddhi-Vidhan): A list of errata and instructions for readers to correct printing mistakes.
Introduction (Prastavana): This is the most extensive section, covering various aspects of the Swayambhu Stotram:
- Title of the Work: Discusses the significance of the name "Swayambhu Stotram" and its alternate name, "Samantabhadra Stotram."
- General Introduction and Importance: Highlights the "Swayambhu Stotram" as a stotra (hymn) that, while praising the twenty-four Tirthankaras, is deeply infused with the essence of Jain Agamas and philosophical truths. It emphasizes that each verse is like a seed aphorism, making the work akin to a condensed Agama.
- Introduction to the Praised Tirthankaras: Provides a detailed account of each of the twenty-four Tirthankaras, describing their life, teachings, and significant events mentioned in the stotra. This section offers valuable historical and biographical information from a Jain perspective.
- The Epithet 'Arhat': Analyzes the various epithets used for the Arhats in the stotra, categorizing them based on the qualities they represent (victory over karma, spiritual excellence, welfare of others, venerability, glory of the doctrine, physical attributes, spiritual practice, and combined qualities).
- The Secret of Devotional Yoga and Prayer (Bhakti Yoga and Stuti-Prarthanaadi Rahasya): Explains the importance of devotion (Bhakti Yoga) in Jainism, emphasizing that it is a means to self-realization and spiritual upliftment. It clarifies the nature of stuti (praise) and prayer, distinguishing the authentic Jain approach from mere ritualism. It highlights the role of devotion in overcoming ego and cultivating virtuous qualities.
- Knowledge Yoga (Gyan Yoga): Details the philosophical insights and doctrinal explanations found within the stotra, presented verse by verse. This section delves into the core tenets of Jainism, such as the nature of reality, the Jiva and Ajiva, causality, the doctrine of Nayas (standpoints), and the refutation of one-sided (ekanta) views.
- Action Yoga (Karma Yoga): Outlines the practical aspects of spiritual progress, explaining the role of actions (both contemplative and physical) in achieving liberation. It discusses the importance of controlling the mind, speech, and body, the renunciation of worldly attachments (parigraha), and the practice of virtues like compassion (daya), control (dama), renunciation (tyaga), and meditation (samadhi). It analyzes the beginning, middle, and end of Karma Yoga as depicted in the stotra.
- Brief Introduction to Samantabhadra: Provides a detailed biographical sketch of Acharya Samantabhadra, highlighting his profound scholarship, his mastery of various philosophical schools, his skills as a poet, debater, and orator, and his extensive travels across India to propagate Jain teachings. It emphasizes his commitment to reasoned inquiry and his role in establishing the supremacy of the Jain viewpoint.

3. Key Themes and Philosophy:

Swayambhu: The concept of Tirthankaras being "Swayambhu" (self-created, self-realized) through their own efforts and understanding of the path to liberation is a central theme.
Anekanta-Vada: The doctrine of Anekanta-Vada (many-sidedness of reality) is extensively discussed and defended, showing how it provides a balanced and comprehensive understanding of truth, in contrast to absolutist or one-sided views.
Bhakti Yoga: The devotional aspect is presented as a crucial path for spiritual growth, fostering admiration and emulation of the Tirthankaras' virtues.
Gyan Yoga: The intellectual and philosophical underpinnings of Jainism are explained, offering insights into the nature of the soul, karma, and liberation.
Karma Yoga: The practical application of spiritual knowledge through virtuous actions and self-discipline is detailed, showing how it leads to the eradication of karma and the attainment of liberation.
The Importance of Acharya Samantabhadra: The introduction significantly emphasizes Samantabhadra's intellectual prowess, his influence on subsequent Jain scholars, and his role in revitalizing and disseminating Jain philosophy.

4. Significance of the Text: The "Swayambhu Stotram" is presented as not just a devotional hymn but a profound philosophical treatise that encapsulates the core teachings of Jainism. It serves as a guide for spiritual seekers, offering both intellectual understanding and practical guidance for achieving self-realization and liberation. The detailed introduction by Jugalkishor Mukhtar makes the complex philosophical concepts accessible to a wider audience.

In essence, this document serves as a scholarly and devotional guide to the "Swayambhu Stotram," illuminating its philosophical depth, its historical context, and its enduring relevance for Jain spiritual practice.