Ashtapad Maha Tirth 01 Page 422 To 528

This document is a comprehensive pictorial guide to Jainism, focusing specifically on Shri Ashtapad Maha Tirth. It's a visual exploration of Jain principles, practices, art, history, and pilgrimage.

Here's a breakdown of the content, organized by key themes:

I. Introduction to Jainism and Tirths:

• Essence of Jainism: Briefly introduces Jainism as one of the oldest religions, originating in India, derived from "Jin" (conqueror/victorious).
• Tirthankaras: Explains Tirthankaras as spiritual victors who established the religious order (Chaturvidh Sangh).
• Tirth: Defines Tirth as places of worship for spiritual salvation, distinguishing between spiritual Tirths (Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu) and physical Tirths (temples, stupas, caves, chaityas).
• Five Major Tirths: Highlights the five major Tirths where all 24 Tirthankaras attained salvation. It emphasizes that Ashtapad Maha Tirth is considered lost and is being rediscovered by the Jain Center of America (JCA).

II. Shri Ashtapad Maha Tirth:

• Significance: Ashtapad is one of the five major Tirths, believed to be in the Himalayas, currently lost.
• JCA's Replica: The Jain Center of America has created a replica of Ashtapad from crystal and gemstones, installed in their temple.
• Origin of the Name: "Ashtapad" means "eight steps," referring to the eight steps leading to the palace built there.
• Construction Details: King Bharat, son of Bhagwan Rishabhdev, built a palace of crystal and installed 24 gemstone idols of Tirthankaras to commemorate Rishabhdev's Nirvana Kalyanak (liberation).
• Nirvana: Bhagwan Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar, attained Nirvana on Ashtapad Mountain.

III. Historical and Scriptural References:

• The text extensively cites various Jain scriptures (Ekadash Angadi Agam, Acharanga Niryukti, Sutra Krutangasutra, Uttaradhyayan Sutra Niryukti, Avashyak Sutra Niryukti, Kalpasutra, Nishith Churni Divine, Vividh Tirth Kalpa, Uttar Puran, Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charitra, etc.) that mention Ashtapad Tirth.
• It includes references to the construction of the "Sinha Nishadhya Prasad" by King Bharat, the presence of 72 idols (3 Chovisis), and spiritual achievements associated with Ashtapad by figures like Gautam Swami.
• Mentions geographical details, such as its location north of Ayodhya, its height, and the Niyadi River.
• Includes references from Tibetan literature and mentions a Mongolian monk's account of Rishabhdev's meditation there.

IV. Development of the Ashtapad Concept and Model (Ratna Mandir):

• Initial Idea: The JCA initially planned a "Ratna Mandir" (Gemstone Temple) with 24 Tirthankar idols due to space constraints.
• Shift to Ashtapad: A visit to a temple in Jaipur inspired the concept to transform the "Ratna Mandir" into an "Ashtapad" model.
• Design Elements: The model incorporates a crystal mountain, eight steps, 24 niches (Gokhalas) for Tirthankar idols, and a five-shikhar design.
• Materials: The mountain is primarily made of crystal quartz (10 tons of processed crystal from 30 tons of rough stone), supported by a one-ton steel frame. Gemstones are used for the Tirthankar idols.
• Construction Process: It details the meticulous process of model making over several years, involving importing materials, carving, assembling, and incorporating various artistic elements.
• Symbolism: The 24 Tirthankar idols are carved from specific gemstones, each with its unique aesthetic and symbolic meaning.

V. Art and Aesthetics:

• Temple Art: Showcases various art forms within the temple, including silver door panels, Gokhalas (niches for idols), artwork on temple walls, ceiling paintings, and etched glass.
• Idol Craftsmanship: Emphasizes the aesthetic beauty of the 24 Tirthankar idols crafted from diverse gemstones, highlighting their colors, hardness, origins, and unique artistic features.
• Related Stories: Illustrates several key stories from Jainism related to Ashtapad, such as Janma Kalyanak, Varsi Tap Parna, Bharat Chakravarti, Areesa Mahal, Gautam Swami's journey and achievements, Ravan and Bali Muni, Rani Veermati, and others, depicted through carvings and artworks.

VI. Research and Field Trips:

• Objectives: JCA organized research trips to the Kailash Mansarovar area to locate the actual Ashtapad Tirth, prove its existence geographically and archaeologically, and deepen research.
• ARIF: Mentions the Ashtapad Research International Foundation (ARIF) and its efforts in collecting literature, publishing materials, and conducting research.
• Methods: Utilizes satellite studies and collaboration with Tibetan literature experts.
• Significance of Location: Suggests that the discovery of Ashtapad could shed light on early human civilization and its cultural and religious history.

VII. Exhibitions, Seminars, and Public Engagement:

• The document extensively details numerous exhibitions and seminars held in various cities in India and internationally to showcase the Ashtapad model, Tirthankar idols, and research findings.
• Highlights the positive public response, spiritual impact, and the involvement of religious leaders, scholars, and the community.
• Includes newspaper clippings and visitor reflections that express admiration for the project, its artistic merit, and its contribution to promoting Jainism.

VIII. Supporting Information:

• Code Index: Provides a detailed system of codes for organizing vast amounts of literature, articles, and research materials related to Ashtapad.
• Selected Index with Cross Reference: Offers a cross-referenced list of articles with their authors, codes, languages, and page numbers, facilitating easy access to specific information.
• Author's List and Code: A comprehensive list of authors and their corresponding codes.
• List of Reference Books: An extensive bibliography of books consulted and utilized in the compilation of this guide.
• Calendar, Stamp, Coin: Mentions the creation of related commemorative items.

In essence, the document is a testament to the Jain Center of America's dedication to preserving and promoting Jain heritage, particularly the lost Tirth of Ashtapad, through a remarkable fusion of faith, art, research, and community engagement. It aims to provide a spiritual and educational experience by bringing the ancient Tirth to life through a stunning artistic representation.