Vamanandan Gunavali Yane Purushadaniya Shree Parshwanath Prabhujina Prachin 121 Stavanono Sangraha - Book Summary

This Jain text, titled "Vamanandan Gunavali Yane Purushadaniya Shree Parshwanath Prabhujina Prachin 121 Stavanono Sangraha" (A Collection of 121 Ancient Stanzas of Purushadaniya Shree Parshwanath Prabhu, the Son of Vaman), is a compilation of devotional hymns dedicated to Lord Parshwanath, the 23rd Tirthankara.

Here's a comprehensive summary based on the provided pages:

Core Content and Purpose:

Devotional Hymns: The primary purpose of this book is to present a collection of 121 ancient "Stavans" (devotional songs or hymns) in praise of Lord Parshwanath.
Lord Parshwanath: Lord Parshwanath is specifically referred to as "Purushadaniya" (one who bestows human qualities or prosperity) and the "Son of Vaman." He is also associated with Shankheshwarji, a significant pilgrimage site.
Ancient and Rare Collection: The emphasis is on these being "prچین" (ancient) and a "sangraha" (collection), suggesting a compilation of valuable and possibly rare devotional literature.
Compilation Effort: The book highlights the effort to gather scattered stanzas from various sources into a single, accessible volume. This was initiated by Muni Raj Shri Gunsaagarji Maharaj and executed by Muni Shri Muniindrasagarji Maharaj, under the guidance of Acharya Shri Hanssagar Surishwarji Maharaj.

Key Information and Context:

Author/Compiler: Narendrasagar (presumably Muni Shri Muniindrasagarji Maharaj, as mentioned in the preface).
Publisher: Shasan Kantakoddharak Suriji Jain Gyanmandir, Bhavnagar.
Dedication: The book is dedicated by the family of the late Seth Shri Bansilal Mangaldas and late Shri Kamalabehn Bansilal, on the occasion of their daughter-in-law Chandrikabehn Mahendrakumar's "Varshitap Parana" (completion of a year-long fast). This indicates a strong connection to the Jain community and its practices.
Date of Publication: Vikrama Samvat 2049, Akshaya Tritiya.
Number in Series: It is the 41st volume in the "Shasan Kantakoddharak Granthamala" series.
Content Breakdown: The book contains a detailed index (pages 7-12) listing the title of each Stavan and the page number where it can be found. The stanzas cover various aspects of devotion to Lord Parshwanath, including descriptions of his form, qualities, divine powers, and the benefits of worshipping him.

Thematic Elements and Content Examples (from the Stavans):

The stanzas cover a wide range of devotional themes:

Praise and Adoration: Many stanzas express deep love, devotion, and praise for Lord Parshwanath's divine beauty, compassion, and power. Examples include verses calling him "Parmatam Parameshwar," "Jagadishwar Jinraj," "Manmohan Swami," "Chintamani Pasak," and "Bhirdabhanjan."
Lord Parshwanath's Attributes: The hymns highlight his attributes such as omniscience, infinite knowledge and perception, his divine birth story (son of Vaman, mother Vama), his symbol (serpent), his power to remove suffering, and his role as a savior.
Devotional Practices: Some stanzas describe the act of devotion, worship, meditation, and the importance of remembering him. Examples include "Pooja vidhimahe Bhaviye," "Antarjami suno Alasar," and "Samay samay se vaar sambharu."
Miraculous Powers and Protection: The stanzas often refer to Lord Parshwanath's ability to protect devotees from dangers, overcome obstacles (like the story of Kamatha), and fulfill wishes.
Personal Devotion and Surrender: Many stanzas express the personal feelings of the devotee, their surrender, longing for his darshan, and their complete reliance on him.
Specific Locations and Associations: References to Shankheshwar, Narangpur, and other places are found, connecting the devotion to specific holy sites.

Significance:

This collection serves as a valuable resource for Jain scholars, devotees, and those interested in Jain devotional literature. It preserves and makes accessible a significant body of ancient hymns dedicated to one of the most revered Tirthankaras in Jainism. The book represents a significant effort in preserving and propagating Jain religious heritage.

In essence, "Vamanandan Gunavali" is a devotional treasury, offering a rich collection of ancient stanzas that capture the essence of devotion, reverence, and faith towards Lord Parshwanath.