Ashtapadji Mahatirth Sahitya Pratikruti Sanshodhan

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Ashtapadji Mahatirth Sahitya Pratikruti Sanshodhan" by Dr. Kumarpal Desai, focusing on its key themes and content:

Overview:

The book "Ashtapadji Mahatirth Sahitya Pratikruti Sanshodhan" (Ashtapadji Great Pilgrimage: Literature, Replica, Research) by Dr. Kumarpal Desai, published by the Jain Center of America, New York, is a detailed exploration of the significance of Ashtapadji as a holy pilgrimage site in Jainism. It focuses on Ashtapadji as the sacred land of the nirvana kalyanaka (final liberation) of the first Tirthankar, Bhagwan Rishabhdev. The book details the literary, historical, and archaeological research surrounding this important, albeit currently lost, pilgrimage.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Ashtapadji: The Sacred Land of the First Tirthankar:

   • The central theme is the reverence for Ashtapadji, identified as the mountain where Bhagwan Rishabhdev attained nirvana.
   • It highlights the significance of the nirvana kalyanaka, the final and most important event in a Tirthankar's life, marking their permanent liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
   • The text explains that Ashtapadji is one of the five most revered pilgrimage sites in Jainism, alongside Sametshikhar, Abu, Girnar, and Shatrunjay.

2. The Genesis of the Project in New York:

   • The book's origin is traced back to the Jain Center of America in New York, which intended to create a "Ratnamandir" (jewel temple) with statues of the 24 Tirthankars.
   • Due to space limitations, the idea evolved to create a replica of the Ashtapadji mountain with 24 jeweled idols of the Tirthankaras.
   • This ambitious project spurred a deep dive into collecting all available literature and research on Ashtapadji.

3. Extensive Literary and Research Compilation:

   • The book describes the extensive effort to gather information on Ashtapadji from ancient Jain and Hindu scriptures, as well as Tibetan literature.
   • It includes collections of hymns, prayers, and praises dedicated to Ashtapadji.
   • Experiences of travelers who visited the Ashtapad mountain in the Himalayas were also compiled.
   • The ongoing search for this lost pilgrimage involves geologists, archaeologists, and satellite imagery analysis.
   • Dr. Kumarpal Desai's inspiration has been crucial, leading to the compilation of 16 volumes of xeroxed material on Ashtapadji literature and research.

4. Understanding Jainism and Tirthankaras:

   • The book provides foundational information about Jainism, describing it as an ancient religion with unique philosophical insights, literature, architecture, ethics, and lifestyle.
   • It defines "Jina" as one who has conquered passion, hatred, and delusion, and "Jainism" as the path shown by these conquerors.
   • It explains the role of Tirthankaras as spiritual guides who establish the "Tirth" (a ford or bank) for souls to cross the ocean of worldly existence.
   • The concept of the Chaturvidh Sangha (monks, nuns, male lay followers, and female lay followers) is also highlighted as a "moving Tirth."

5. The Nature of Tirth (Pilgrimage Sites):

   • The text differentiates between "Bhava Tirth" (spiritual pilgrimage, referring to revered souls like Tirthankaras and the Sangha) and "Dravya Tirth" (physical pilgrimage sites like temples, stupas, and caves).
   • It emphasizes the unique Jain perspective of granting the status of "Tirth" to the followers of the faith (Sangha), a higher status than in many other religions.

6. The Ashtapad Mountain and its Significance:

   • The book elaborates on the physical description and historical context of Ashtapad.
   • It states that the mountain's name, Ashtapad (meaning "eight steps"), derives from the eight steps constructed by Chakravarti Bharat, son of Bhagwan Rishabhdev, around the simhanishadyaprasad (royal seat palace) built on the mountain.
   • The mountain is also known by other names such as "Ratnamay" (jewel-adorned), "Rajatadri" (silver mountain, due to its snow-covered appearance), "Sphatikachal" (crystal mountain), and "Haradri."

7. Bhagwan Rishabhdev and Chakravarti Bharat:

   • Detailed information is provided about Bhagwan Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar, his role as the progenitor of human civilization, his establishment of social order, governance, and politics.
   • His birth, marriage, ascension to kingship, renunciation, attainment of omniscience, and preaching of the five Mahavratas (non-violence, truth, non-stealing, chastity, and non-possession) are described.
   • The text also highlights Chakravarti Bharat's devotion and his role in constructing the simhanishadyaprasad on Ashtapad and his knowledge of the twenty-four Tirthankaras.

8. Literary References and Evidence:

   • The book meticulously lists numerous Jain scriptures and texts that mention Ashtapad, including Acharanga Niryukti, Uttaradhyayan Sutra, Aavashyak Niryukti, Kalpa Sutra, Nishith Churni, Vividh Tirthakalpa, Jnana Prakash Deeparnav, and works by Acharya Hemachandracharya and Acharya Jinvijaysuriji.
   • These references confirm Ashtapad's importance as a pilgrimage site, the place of Rishabhdev's nirvana, and the location of significant events.
   • Mention is made of Tibetan texts and Mongoliam monks' accounts that also refer to Ashtapad and Rishabhdev.

9. The Creation of the Ashtapad Replica in New York:

   • The book details the design and construction process of the Ashtapad replica at the Jain Center of America.
   • It describes the challenges faced, including weight limitations for the building structure.
   • The use of 30 tons of rough crystal, cut and carved to weigh approximately 10 tons, is explained.
   • The intricate process of crafting 24 idols of the Tirthankaras from individual precious gemstones (emerald, ruby, amethyst, etc.) is detailed, emphasizing the use of certified gemstones and adherence to religious specifications.
   • The architectural design, including the eight steps, 24 niches (gokhla), and the five shikharas (spires) adorned with golden kalashas, is described.
   • The backdrop featuring a panoramic view of Kailash-Mansarovar enhances the visual representation.
   • The carving of 24 stories related to Ashtapad on the mountain replica is also highlighted.

10. Ongoing Research and Future Prospects:

    • The book emphasizes the continuous effort to collect and consolidate all available material on Ashtapad, forming 16 volumes of compiled information.
    • The formation of the "Ashtapad Research International Foundation" is mentioned, aiming to coordinate research with Indian and Chinese authorities and international research institutions.
    • The search for the actual physical location of Ashtapad in the Himalayas continues, involving geological and archaeological investigations, as well as satellite data. Several potential locations are being explored.
    • The research aims to uncover the origins of world culture, as Ashtapad is situated in a region connected to the Indus River civilization.

Conclusion:

"Ashtapadji Mahatirth Sahitya Pratikruti Sanshodhan" is a comprehensive testament to the deep reverence for Ashtapadji in Jainism. It serves as both a historical documentation of the meticulous research undertaken and a guide to understanding the spiritual and cultural significance of this lost but revered pilgrimage. The book beautifully intertwines religious devotion with academic rigor, demonstrating the ongoing quest to rediscover and honor the sacred past of Jainism.