DHAMMA-TITTHA-YARE JINE, ARIHANTE KITTAISSAM, CHAUVISAM PI KEVALI USABHA-MAJIAM CHA VANDE, SAMBHAVA-MABHINANDANAM CHA SUMAIM CHA, PAUMA-PPAHAM SUPÄSAM, JINAM CHA CHANDA-PPAHAM VANDE. SUVIHIM CHA PUPPHA-DANTAM, SIALA-SIJJANSA-VÄSU-PUJJAM CHA, VIMALA-MANA
The verses you have provided are a form of stavan or stotra (devotional hymn) in praise of the 24 Tirthankaras and the Siddhas in Jainism. Here is an explanation based on Jain teachings:
Meaning and Context
These stanzas are composed in Prakrit or a similar ancient Indian language. Such hymns are recited by Jains as an act of devotion (bhakti) and to pay respect to the Tirthankaras and Siddhas, who have achieved liberation (moksha) and are regarded as spiritual victors (Jinas). The verses name the 24 Tirthankaras and offer salutations to them, seeking their blessings for spiritual progress, health, knowledge, and ultimately, liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Key Points from the Hymn:
- Salutation to Tirthankaras: The hymn lists the names of the 24 Tirthankaras, beginning with Rishabha (Adinatha) and ending with Mahavira (Vardhamana), offering reverence and respect.
- Worship of Siddhas: The Siddhas, those who have destroyed all karmas and attained moksha, are also venerated.
- Aspirations: The devotee prays for the removal of suffering, attainment of right knowledge (samayik), health, and ultimately, liberation.
- Qualities of Siddhas: Siddhas are described as pure (nirmala), deep as the ocean (sagara-gambhira), and the highest beings in the universe.
Jain Practice
Such hymns are regularly recited in Jain temples and homes, especially during devotional rituals (puja), festivals, and meditation. The recitation is believed to bring spiritual upliftment, purify the mind, and inspire the practitioner to follow the path shown by the Tirthankaras—right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.
Cultural Significance
Reciting the names and virtues of the Tirthankaras and Siddhas is an important part of Jain worship (puja) and daily rituals (pratikraman). It reinforces the values of non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), and self-discipline (samyama) as taught by the Tirthankaras.
In summary: This hymn is an expression of devotion and reverence towards the 24 Tirthankaras and Siddhas, seeking their blessings to progress spiritually and ultimately attain liberation, which is the ultimate goal in Jainism.