108 Parshwanath Tirth Samput Part 01 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "108 Parshwanath Tirth Samput Part 01" by Prashantshekharvijay, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: 108 Parshwanath Tirth Samput Part 01 Author: Prashantshekharvijay Publisher: Ugamraj Bhanvarlal Shahji

Overall Purpose and Theme: This book is a devotional compilation dedicated to Lord Parshwanath, the 23rd Tirthankara in Jainism. It focuses on the significance of 108 (one hundred and eight) sacred pilgrimage sites associated with Lord Parshwanath across India. The text aims to inspire readers towards devotion, spiritual practice (upāsanā), meditation (dhyāna), mantra chanting (jap), and understanding the historical and spiritual importance of these Tirths (pilgrimage sites).

Key Individuals and Influences:

Prerak (Inspirational Figure): Param Pujya Acharya Shri Nankasurishwarji Maharajashree, referred to as "Prem Guru Kripapatra."
Sampadak (Editor): Pujya Munishri Prashantshekhar Vijay.
Prakashak (Publisher): Ugamraj Bhanvarlal Shahji family, Mumbai.
Dedication: The book is dedicated to the 75th Samyam Suvarna Mahotsav (Golden Jubilee of Asceticism) of their revered Guru, Shri Ratnashekhar Vijay Maharajashree.
Philosophical Underpinning: The text emphasizes the importance of a Guru's grace and blessings for spiritual progress, stating that self-realization is impossible without them. It highlights the profound power of Lord Parshwanath's name and his unique karma that led to the establishment of 108 Tirths.
Family Legacy of Devotion: The book showcases the deep spiritual devotion of the Ugamraj Bhanvarlal Shah family, detailing the rigorous austerities (tapascharya) performed by their ancestors, including numerous fasts, pilgrimages, and vows.

Content Overview:

Introduction of Lord Parshwanath and His Tirths:
- Lord Parshwanath is described as the most excellent among the 24 Tirthankaras, a possessor of powerful karmas, and one whose name, upon mere remembrance, alleviates suffering and bestows peace and liberation.
- The text states that Lord Parshwanath's name is associated with 108 famous Tirths across India, emphasizing the immense spiritual influence of this Tirthankara.
- The unique "Adhey Nam Karma" (a type of karma that makes one's name inherently respected and leads to the establishment of sacred sites) is cited as the reason behind the proliferation of Parshvanath Tirths.
The "108 Parshwanath Tirth Samput" Concept:
- The book is presented as the first part of a series, suggesting a comprehensive exploration of these 108 Tirths.
- The concept of 108 Tirths, all named after Lord Parshwanath, signifies his omnipresence and profound impact on spiritual geography.
Detailed Descriptions of Specific Tirths:
- The book begins by listing and then detailing several of these 108 Tirths. Each section typically includes:
  - Name of the Tirth and Lord Parshwanath: For example, Shri Bhakti Parshwanath - Shankheshwar (Gujarat).
  - Historical and Mythological Significance: Narratives about the origin of the Tirth, miracles associated with the idol, and historical events.
  - Details of the Idol: Description of the material, posture, and features of the main deity's idol.
  - Associated Gurus and Acharyas: Mentions of prominent Jain monks and scholars associated with the Tirth.
  - Miraculous Accounts (Mahima Apar): Stories of how devotion to Lord Parshwanath at these specific Tirths has led to the fulfillment of desires, recovery from illness, overcoming obstacles, and spiritual upliftment. These often serve as testimonials to the power of faith.
  - Mantra Aradhana: Specific mantras are provided for each Tirth, with instructions on how to chant them for spiritual benefit and wish fulfillment.
  - Contact Information: Details for reaching the specific Tirth management for further information or planning a visit.
Examples of Tirths Covered (as indicated by page numbers):
- Shri Bhakti Parshwanath - Shankheshwar (Gujarat)
- Shri Jirawala Parshwanath - Jirawal (Rajasthan)
- Shri Nakodaji Parshwanath - Nakoda (Rajasthan)
- Shri Panchasarji Parshwanath - Patan (Gujarat)
- Shri Sankharanji Bhagwan - Jaisalmer (Rajasthan)
- Shri Jotingji Parshwanath - Mujpur (Gujarat)
- Shri Gambhiraji Parshwanath - Gambhu (Gujarat)
- Shri Wadiji Parshwanath - Patan (Gujarat)
- Shri Kalpadrumji Parshwanath - Mathura (Uttar Pradesh)
- Shri Kantumrolji Parshwanath - Jalore (Rajasthan)
- Shri KokaJi Parshwanath - Patan (Gujarat)
- Shri Ajharaji Parshwanath - Ajhara (Gujarat)
- Shri Dharanendraji Parshwanath - Rannajjar (Rajasthan)
- Shri Kalikundji Parshwanath - Dholla (Gujarat)
- Shri Dhrutkallolji Parshwanath - Suthri (Gujarat)
- Shri Dadaji Parshwanath - Beda (Rajasthan)
- Shri Manoranjanji Parshwanath - Mehsana (Gujarat)
- Shri Manovanchit Parshwanath - Ner (Maharashtra)
- Shri PhalvruddhiJi Parshwanath - Phalodi (Rajasthan)
- Shri Bhabhaji Parshwanath - Jamnagar (Gujarat)
- Shri Manmohanji Parshwanath - Dhodoi (Gujarat)
- Shri Bhaybhanjanji Parshwanath - Bhinmal (Rajasthan)
- Shri Manorath-Spatdrumpanath - Palitana (Gujarat)
- Shri Antarikshji Parshwanath - Shirpur (Maharashtra)
- Shri Lodravaji Parshwanath - Lodhra (Rajasthan)
- Shri Bareja Parshwanath - Bareja (Gujarat)
- Shri Chintamani Parshwanath - Nasik (Maharashtra)
- Shri Shankheshwar Parshwanath - Shankheshwar (Gujarat)
- Shri Nageshwar Parshwanath - Unhel (Rajasthan)
- Shri Nagphana Parshwanath - Vihar (Gujarat)
- Shri Shamalaji Parshwanath - Ahmedabad (Gujarat)
- Shri Prem Parshwanath - Shankheshwar (Gujarat)
- Shri Tanklaji Parshwanath - Patan (Gujarat)
- Shri GandaliyaJi Parshwanath - Mandal (Gujarat)
- Shri KankaJi Parshwanath - Patan (Gujarat)
- Shri NarangaJi Parshwanath - Patan (Gujarat)
- Shri Navkhandaji Parshwanath - Ghogha (Gujarat)
Inspirational Quotes and Teachings:
- Scattered throughout the pages are pearls of wisdom (Suvakya) offering guidance on life, relationships, and spiritual values. For example, the importance of good intentions, love, and dedication, and the contrast between societal expectations and true spiritual fulfillment.

Overall Impression: "108 Parshwanath Tirth Samput Part 01" is a deeply devotional and informative work for followers of Jainism, particularly those who revere Lord Parshwanath. It serves as both a guide to significant pilgrimage sites and a source of spiritual inspiration through historical accounts, miracles, and traditional practices. The dedication to the Guru and the detailed accounts of family spiritual practices underscore the importance of lineage and devotion in Jain tradition. The inclusion of mantras suggests a practical application of the text for readers seeking spiritual connection.