अध्यात्म, स्तवन और भारतीय वाङ्मय
Summary
The text explores the concept of "stuti" (praise or hymn) within Indian spiritual traditions, particularly Jainism. It defines stuti as a great bridge connecting the individual soul to the supreme soul, asserting that its recitation, chanting, and rhythmic repetition awaken energy centers, purify the conscience, and dissolve karmic bonds. The text notes a long tradition of the word's use in Indian culture, with synonyms in Vedic, Buddhist, and Jain texts. A distinction is made in literary theory where a composition of up to three verses is called "stuti," while longer ones are termed "stav." The text states that 132 stutis filled with devotional sentiment are presented, and Lord Mahavira considered stava-stuti as auspicious. It explains the etymology of "stuti" from the Sanskrit root "stu" meaning to praise. The text describes stuti as the singing or proclamation of the various qualities of the worshipped deity. It cites a verse stating that stuti-stotra, like a jewel, destroys the fever of karma. Six characteristics of a stotra are listed: salutation, blessing, statement of doctrine, valor, glory, and prayer. The text argues that stuti involves both knowledge and emotion, leading the devotee to surrender with complete faith. It presents anecdotes about Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose using introspection to recharge himself and a member of the Science Christian Society in America who believed prayer and faith in God could cure illness. The text connects this to Jain prayers, suggesting that health, wisdom, and peace are found within oneself through stuti. It links stuti to the neuroendocrine system, stating that balanced use of stuti and positive thinking can free one from negative emotions. The text emphasizes that stotras express the composer's inner feelings and evoke similar emotions in listeners. It concludes that meditating on the qualities of a passionless (vitaraga) being can lead one to become passionless themselves. The text details the benefits of stuti, including the removal of obstacles, shedding of karmas, and
Conclusion
The document establishes that the practice of *stuti* (praise) is a profound spiritual tool, serving as a bridge between the individual soul and the supreme. Its implications are far-reaching, demonstrating that the focused recitation and contemplation of hymns can awaken inner energy centers, purify the conscience, and dissolve karmic bonds. The text argues that this practice is not merely ritualistic but a scientifically grounded method for achieving mental and physical well-being by harmonizing the neuro-endocrine system. Ultimately, the outcome for a sincere practitioner is a transformative journey from an external-focused state to an inner one, culminating in the attainment of supreme spiritual goals like *kevala-jnana* (omniscience) and liberation. The document concludes that *stuti* is the ultimate auspiciousness (*mangala*), a definitive path to self-realization and the dissolution of all suffering.