Ashtapadji Mahatirth Ratnamandir

This document is a Gujarati book titled "Shri Ashtapad Mahatirth Ratnamandir" (Shri Ashtapad Great Pilgrimage Jewel Temple), published by the Jain Center of America, Inc. in New York. It details the efforts by the Jain Center of America to reconstruct a replica of the Ashtapad Mahatirth, a significant but currently lost pilgrimage site in Jainism.

Here's a breakdown of the content:

Core Theme: The book focuses on the historical and religious significance of Ashtapad Tirth, the first Tirthankar Bhagwan Rishabhdev's Nirvana place, and the ambitious project undertaken by the Jain Center of America to create a detailed replica of this sacred site in New York.

Key Information and Content:

• Introduction of Ashtapad Tirth: The text establishes Ashtapad as one of the five most revered pilgrimage sites in Jainism. It notes that the site is considered lost in the present day.
• Historical Significance:
  • According to Jain scriptures, the first Tirthankar, Bhagwan Rishabhdev, attained Nirvana on Mount Ashtapad.
  • His son, Emperor Bharat, built a temple made of jewels at this location. The name "Ashtapad" (eight steps) is believed to have originated from the eight steps leading to this temple.
  • The book cites numerous Jain scriptures (Agams, Niryuktis, etc.) that mention Ashtapad and its significance, including scriptures like the Acharaangasutra, Sutrakrutanga, Uttaradhyayana Sutra, Kalpasutra, and Nishith Churni.
  • It highlights that visiting Ashtapad Tirth could lead to Moksha (liberation).
  • The text also refers to historical accounts and mentions by Jain scholars like Acharya Jinprabhsurisuriji and Hemchandracharya, who have described Ashtapad in their works.
• The Modern Project:
  • The Jain Center of America, New York, embarked on this project as part of building a new temple and religious center.
  • Initially, the plan was to install 24 Tirthankar statues, but due to space constraints, the idea evolved to create a "Ratnamandir" (Jewel Temple) with 24 jewel-encrusted statues of the Tirthankaras.
  • The concept of Ashtapad Tirth itself transformed into the inspiration for this Ratnamandir after seeing an "Ashtapad Pat" (an artistic depiction of Ashtapad) in a Jain temple in Jaipur.
  • The project involves creating an artistic replica of Ashtapad Tirth, including the mountain and the Ratnamandir.
  • The book details the design process, the use of specific materials like crystal and precious stones, the engineering challenges, and the construction of the replica.
  • It mentions that the eleventh replica has been sent to New York for installation.
  • The 18 Abhishek (consecration rituals) of the 24 Tirthankar statues were planned in Mumbai, and then the statues would be installed in the New York temple on the Ashtapad mountain replica.
• Research and Exploration:
  • The Jain Center has been actively researching Ashtapad, collecting information from ancient texts, traveler accounts, and researchers.
  • They have compiled this information into 16 volumes.
  • Two research expeditions to the Central Himalayas were conducted in 2006 and 2007 to locate the actual Ashtapad Tirth, focusing on geographical and archaeological evidence.
  • The book discusses potential locations of Ashtapad Tirth in the Himalayas, referencing its proximity to Kailash Mansarovar and providing maps and satellite imagery analysis.
• Specific Details of the Replica:
  • The replica features a crystal mountain with eight steps.
  • There are 24 niches (gokhla) for the Tirthankar statues.
  • The statues themselves are made of precious gemstones, with each statue carved from a single stone and certified.
  • The text provides details about the measurements of the mountain and the niches, as well as the different sizes of the Tirthankar statues based on their sequence.
  • Specific gemstones used are mentioned, such as Emerald, Ruby, Amethyst, Kunzite, Rose Quartz, and Sodalite.
• Associated Narratives and Stories (Parishisht-1): The book includes a collection of stories related to Ashtapad Tirth, such as:
  • The life events of Bhagwan Rishabhdev, including his birth, attainment of knowledge, and Nirvana.
  • The story of Emperor Bharat building the jewel temple.
  • Emperor Bharat's realization of detachment in the mirror palace.
  • The story of Gautam Swami and his spiritual prowess in reaching Ashtapad.
  • The tale of Sagar Raja's sons and Nagkumar.
  • The story of King Ravana and Muni Valinath.
  • The narrative of Queen Veermati.
  • The significance of Muni Suvrat Swami and Padaliptasuriji's connection to Ashtapad.
• Exhibitions and Seminars (Parishisht-2): The book lists various cities in India and abroad where exhibitions and seminars were held to showcase the Ashtapad model, the 72 Tirthankar statues, and related literature, thereby raising awareness about Ashtapad Tirth.
• Acknowledgements: The publication acknowledges contributions from various individuals and organizations, including the translator (Padmashri Kumarpalbhai Desai), the creators of the replica (Mohnot Gems, Jaipur), and those who sponsored the printing.

In essence, "Shri Ashtapad Mahatirth Ratnamandir" is a comprehensive account of the historical significance of Ashtapad Tirth and the dedicated efforts of the Jain Center of America to recreate a tangible representation of this sacred site, combining religious scholarship with artistic and engineering endeavor. It serves as both a historical document and a testament to modern Jain community's commitment to preserving and promoting their heritage.