Vijaychandchariyam - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vijaychandchariyam":

Book Title: Vijaychandchariyam Author: Sirichandaprabh Mahattar (original composition) Editor: Jitendra B. Shah Publisher: Shrutratnakar, Ahmedabad Language: Prakrit (original), with Gujarati translation included in this edition. Year of Publication (New Edition): V.S. 2064 / 2008 CE

Overview:

The "Vijaychandchariyam" is a Jain text originally composed by Sirichandaprabh Mahattar. This new edition, edited by Jitendra B. Shah, presents the life story of Vijayachandra Kevali (also known as Vijayachandra, the 15th Kamadeva in Jain tradition). The text is particularly noted for its eight narratives illustrating the significance and results of performing the Ashtaprakari Puja (Eightfold Worship) of the Tirthankaras. The original composition was in Prakrit, and its script was challenging for modern readers. This new edition includes a Gujarati translation alongside the original Prakrit text, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Content Summary:

The central theme of the "Vijaychandchariyam" revolves around the concept of Ashtaprakari Puja, which involves worshipping the Tirthankaras with eight specific items:

Gandh (Fragrance/Sandalwood paste): Illustrated by the story of King Jayasoor.
Dhoop (Incense): Illustrated by the story of Vinaydhar.
Akshat (Unbroken rice/corn): Illustrated by the story of the parrot couple (Shuk Yugal).
Pushpa (Flowers): Illustrated by the story of the merchant's daughter Leelavati.
Deep (Lamp/Light): Illustrated by the story of Jinmati and Dhanshree.
Naivedya (Offering of food): Illustrated by the story of Hali Purush.
Phala (Fruit): Illustrated by the story of a destitute woman and the parrot couple.
Jala (Water/Kalash): Illustrated by the story of the Brahmin's daughter.

In addition to these eight main narratives, the text also includes an additional story:

Avashisht Kathā (Remaining Story): The story of Surpriya, which illustrates the severe consequences of attachment to possessions (parigraha) and the cessation of sins through repentance.

Key Narrative Elements and Themes:

The Life of Vijayachandra Kevali: The book chronicles the life of Vijayachandra, a significant figure in Jain tradition, detailing his journey towards enlightenment.
The Power of Ashtaprakari Puja: Each of the eight stories highlights how performing specific acts of devotion with these eight items leads to profound spiritual and material benefits, ultimately guiding individuals towards liberation (moksha). The narratives demonstrate the karmic consequences of devotion and actions.
Moral and Ethical Teachings: The stories often portray characters facing dilemmas related to attachment, greed, forgiveness, and the consequences of their actions, reinforcing Jain ethical principles.
Past Life Connections (Jati-smaran): Several narratives involve characters remembering their past lives and how actions performed in those lives led to their current circumstances, emphasizing the law of karma.
Accessibility through Translation: The inclusion of the Gujarati translation is a key feature, making the teachings accessible to those who may not be fluent in Prakrit.
Author and Context: The text acknowledges Sirichandaprabh Mahattar as the original author and highlights the work of editor Jitendra B. Shah and collaborator Sadhvi Chandanbalashriji. The publication is by Shrutratnakar, Ahmedabad, aiming to make these sacred texts available to the public.

Significance of the Edition:

This new edition by Shrutratnakar is significant because it revives an important but perhaps less accessible text. The editorial work, including purification and correction of the original text and translation, ensures accuracy. The inclusion of the Gujarati translation greatly enhances its reach and educational value for Jain practitioners and scholars. The text aims to inspire devotion towards the Tirthankaras through the understanding of the efficacy of the Ashtaprakari Puja.

Overall Purpose:

The "Vijaychandchariyam" serves as a devotional guide, illustrating the virtues of devotion, karma, and spiritual pursuit through engaging narratives. It aims to deepen the reader's understanding and appreciation of the Ashtaprakari Puja and its role in the Jain path to liberation.