Vijayprabhsuri Bar Mas

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shri Vijayprabhsuri Bar Mas" by Shilchandrasuri, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Shri Vijayprabhsuri Bar Mas Author: Muni Premvijayji (disciple of Pandit Darshanvijayji, who was the disciple of Tapgachchhapati Vijaydevsuriji) Publisher: ZZ_Anusandhan Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/229677/1

Overall Nature and Purpose:

The "Shri Vijayprabhsuri Bar Mas" is a lyrical composition, specifically a "Bar Mas" (Twelve Months), that celebrates the virtues and qualities of Acharya Vijayprabhsuriji. While the typical "Bar Mas" genre in Indian literature is usually characterized by themes of separation, longing, and anticipation in romantic love (vipralambha-shringar-ras), this Jain version deviates from that norm.

Instead of expressing romantic yearning, the poem uses the framework of twelve months to extol the glory and virtues of Acharya Vijayprabhsuriji. The author, Muni Premvijayji, has presented this as a "gahauli", a type of devotional poem common among Jain poets, where the primary purpose is the praise and glorification of a spiritual leader or Guru. The convention allows for incorporating various themes and imagery within this devotional context.

Structure and Content:

• Twelve Months of Praise: The core of the work is structured around the twelve months of the year. Each month, from Kartik to Ashadh (and a concluding section), is dedicated to highlighting a specific aspect of Acharya Vijayprabhsuriji's greatness.
• Devotional Focus: The poem is replete with expressions of devotion and admiration for the Acharya. The author addresses the Acharya directly, expressing deep respect and a desire for his presence and blessings.
• Imagery and Metaphors: The author employs various natural and spiritual imagery to describe the Acharya's qualities. For example:
  • Kartik: Acharya is described as engaging in spiritual journeys (vihar).
  • Magh/Posh: The Acharya provides solace, removes worries, and is a source of spiritual sustenance.
  • Chaitra/Vaishakh: The Acharya's presence brings happiness, and the poet compares their devotion to that of a fish remembering water.
  • Jeth: The Acharya's radiance is likened to the sun, bringing benefit to the community.
  • Ashadh/Shravan: The Acharya's teachings are described as fulfilling expectations and offering comfort.
  • Bhadrapad: The Acharya's influence is seen as a source of hope and progress for devotees.
  • Asoj: His presence signifies the fulfillment of aspirations.
• Spiritual Virtues: The poem explicitly mentions the Acharya embodying virtues like:
  • "Ratna" (Jewel): Indicating immense value and brilliance.
  • "Sahay" (Support/Aid): Being a source of help and guidance.
  • "Nishdhees" (Lord/Master): Acknowledging his spiritual authority.
  • "Ish" (God/Lord): Elevating his status.
  • "Punyaankur" (Sprout of Merit): Suggesting his virtuous deeds and their blossoming impact.
  • "Chhatris Gune Kari Sobhto" (Adorned with Thirty-Six Virtues): A specific enumeration of his excellent qualities.
  • "Chiranjivi" (Long-lived): A blessing and acknowledgement of his lasting impact.
  • "Amia-kacholda" (Nectar-like eyes): Describing his benevolent gaze.
  • "Sovanvan-sham Kay" (Body like a golden forest): A metaphor for his radiant appearance.
• Personal Devotion: The author expresses a deep personal connection and devotion, stating that the Acharya lives in his heart like Sita in Rama's heart or like a bee to a Malati flower.
• Impact of His Presence: The poem emphasizes the transformative effect of the Acharya's presence, stating that his steps bring fulfillment and prosperity to those who welcome him.
• Lineage and Authorship: The work is attributed to Muni Premvijayji, a disciple of Pandit Darshanvijayji, who was a successor in the lineage of Acharya Vijaydevsuriji. This highlights the transmission of spiritual knowledge and devotion through a Guru-disciple tradition. The last verse specifically mentions the blessings of Darshanvijayji as enabling Premvijayji to sing the praises of Acharya Vijayprabhsuriji.

Significance of the "Bar Mas" Format in a Jain Context:

The adaptation of the "Bar Mas" format for devotional praise is noteworthy. It demonstrates the flexibility of literary forms within Jainism to serve spiritual purposes. By aligning the cyclical nature of months with the perpetual virtues of a spiritual leader, the poem creates a sense of ongoing relevance and inspiration. It transforms a potentially secular theme into a vehicle for propagating spiritual merit and devotion.

Availability:

A two-page manuscript of this work is available at La.Da. Vidyamandir (Reference No. 232).

In essence, "Shri Vijayprabhsuri Bar Mas" is a beautiful and devout ode that utilizes the traditional "Bar Mas" structure to meticulously detail and celebrate the spiritual eminence, virtues, and beneficial influence of Acharya Vijayprabhsuriji within the Jain tradition.