Vividh Puja Sangraha

Here's a comprehensive summary of the "Vividh Puja Sangraha" by Shravak Bhimsinh Manek, based on the provided text:

Book Title: Vividh Puja Sangraha (Collection of Various Pujas) Author: Shravak Bhimsinh Manek Publisher: Shravak Bhimsinh Manek Edition: Eighth Edition Printed at: Nirnaya Sagar Press, Mumbai Published in: Samvat 1973 (1917 CE)

Overall Purpose and Content:

"Vividh Puja Sangraha" is a comprehensive compilation of various Jain devotional songs and rituals (pujas), primarily in the Gujarati language, aimed at fostering devotion and knowledge among Jains. The book is presented as the first volume of a planned three-volume series, with the intention of providing a more complete and updated collection than previous works. It highlights the enduring respect and interest in Jain religious literature, as evidenced by its eighth edition.

Key Features and Contents:

1. Purpose of the Collection: The preface (Prastavana) explains that this collection aims to provide a repository of various pujas composed by highly revered Jain saints and scholars. It acknowledges a previous "Shravak Puja Sangraha" and states that "Vividh Puja Sangraha" has been planned in three volumes to include further additions and improvements.

2. Authorship and Content: The book includes pujas by prominent Jain figures such as:

   • Shri Devchandji
   • Shri Virvijayji
   • Shri Yashovijayji
   • Shri Vijaylakshmisuri
   • Shri Gyanvimal suri
   • Shri Devpal
   • Shri Dharmchandraji
   • Shri Sakalchandji
   • Shri Meghrajji
   • Shri Devvijayji
   • Shri Ganjirvijayji

3. Types of Pujas Included: The collection covers a wide spectrum of Jain pujas, demonstrating the richness of devotional practices. Some of the prominent ones mentioned in the index and text include:

   • Snatra Puja: Ritual bathing and adoration of the Jina idol, often elaborately described with divine involvement (e.g., by Indra). Several versions by different authors are included.
   • Panchkalyanak Puja: Pujas dedicated to the five auspicious events in the life of a Tirthankara (descent into the womb, birth, renunciation, enlightenment, and nirvana).
   • Navpad Puja: Worship of the nine supreme entities in Jainism.
   • Dvadash Vrata Puja: Devotion related to the twelve vows undertaken by laypeople.
   • Chosathprakari Puja: A puja involving 64 types of worship, often linked to specific karmas.
   • Sattarnedi Puja: A puja described with 70 types of worship, detailing various offerings and rituals.
   • Vish Sthanak Puja: Worship related to the 20 spiritual stages or steps.
   • Shattri (Seventy) Prakari Puja: This appears to be another reference to the Sattarnedi Puja, indicating a detailed ritualistic offering.
   • Ashtprakari Puja: Worship involving eight types of offerings or elements.
   • Dash Vidh Yati Dharma Puja: Worship focusing on the ten virtues of an ascetic.
   • Various Kalash Pujas: Rituals involving the pouring of sacred water or other substances from pots, often associated with specific events like birth anniversaries.
   • Kshama Pratikraman: Rituals of seeking forgiveness and atonement.
   • Aarti and Deepak rituals: Songs of adoration and the lighting of lamps.
   • Pujan of Jina's Angas: Worship of the different limbs or parts of the Jina idol.

4. Inclusion of Ritualistic Procedures (Dhyapan Vidhi): Beyond just the songs, the collection also provides instructions or methods for performing some of the major pujas, such as Snatra Puja, Sattarnedi Puja, Vish Sthanak Puja, Navpad Puja, Chosathprakari Puja, Panchkalyanak Puja, Dvadash Vrata Puja, and Ashtprakari Puja. This indicates a practical guide for devotees.

5. Emphasis on Devotion and Knowledge: The text repeatedly mentions that these pujas are designed to "cultivate devotion" (bhakti) and "awaken knowledge" (gyan jagrut kare). The compositions are described as "rasik pad" (tasteful verses) and "dhal-beh deshana" (songs in ballad form with discourse), suggesting they are not only devotional but also informative.

6. Historical Context: The preface notes that many of the composers lived relatively recently ("hamnaaj thaya je" - they just passed away), indicating the compilation aimed to capture contemporary devotional literature. Shri Ganjirvijayji is mentioned as having passed away four years prior.

7. Publisher's and Author's Dedication: The book is published by Shravak Bhimsinh Manek, who also serves as the "Prasiddhkarta" (Publisher). The dedication to making these pujas accessible to all, regardless of their level of understanding ("kelvayla ke vagar kelvayla, bal ke vṛddha badhane" - learned or unlearned, young or old), highlights a commitment to broad religious outreach. The desire for the "valoran" (attachment/interest) to these pujas to grow for the "vriddhi" (increase) of religion is also expressed.

In essence, "Vividh Puja Sangraha" is a significant work in Jain devotional literature, offering a rich collection of rituals and songs to aid in the spiritual practice and understanding of Jain principles for the community.