Bharat Ke Digambar Jain Tirth Part 4

This document is the fourth volume of the book series "Bharat ke Digambar Jain Tirth" (Digambar Jain Tirths of India), authored by Balbhadra Jain and published by the Bharat Varshiya Digambar Jain Tirthakshetra Committee. This volume focuses on the Digambar Jain pilgrimage sites in the Indian states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.

Key aspects of the book summarized from the provided pages:

• Occasion of Publication: The book is dedicated to the 850th Nirvana Mahotsav year of Lord Mahavir.
• Content of the Volume: This fourth part specifically covers the Digambar Jain pilgrimage sites in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Previous volumes covered Uttar Pradesh, Bihar-Bengal-Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh.
• Author and Publisher: The author is Balbhadra Jain, and the publisher is the Bharat Varshiya Digambar Jain Tirthakshetra Committee, Hirabaug, Bombay.
• First Edition: Published in 1978.
• Purpose of the Publication: The book aims to provide a detailed description of these sacred pilgrimage sites, covering their mythological, historical, cultural, architectural, and artistic aspects. It also intends to help pilgrims receive the full benefits of their visits and gain knowledge.
• Definition and Significance of Tirth (Pilgrimage Site): The text delves into the etymology and meaning of the word "Tirth" in Jainism, explaining that it refers to places where Tirthankaras performed significant life events (like birth, initiation, omniscience, nirvana), or where great acharyas attained liberation, or places with miraculous attributes that inspire faith.
• Categorization of Tirths: The Digambar Jain tradition categorizes Tirths into three types:
  1. Siddh Kshetra (Nirvana Kshetra): Where Tirthankaras or other great monks attained nirvana.
  2. Kalyanak Kshetra: Where Tirthankaras had their major life events (birth, initiation, omniscience).
  3. Atishay Kshetra: Where miracles are witnessed or associated with temples or idols.
• Maahatmya (Glory) of Tirths: The text emphasizes the sanctity of these places due to the presence and penance of great souls, including Tirthankaras and Jain monks. Their spiritual vibrations purify the environment and inspire pilgrims towards spiritual progress.
• History of Jain Art and Archaeology: The book provides an overview of Jain art and archaeology in these regions, discussing various types of sculptures (Tirthankar, Shasan Devta), temples, cave temples, and inscriptions dating from the Pragua-Gupta period through medieval and later periods.
• Tirth Puja (Worship at Pilgrimage Sites): It details the methods of worship and the evolving traditions over time.
• Tirth Yatra (Pilgrimage): The book discusses the purpose of pilgrimage, the best times to travel, and the rights and responsibilities of pilgrims. It also touches upon the historical aspect of pilgrimage, mentioning ancient pilgrimage groups (sanghs).
• Specific Tirths Covered:
  • Rajasthan: Shri Mahavirji, Chamatkarji, Chandkhedi, Jhalrapatan, Jaipur, Padampura, Ajmer, Baghera, Naraina, Maujmaabad, Keshoryapatan, Bijolia, Chanwaleshwar Parshvanath, Chittorgarh, Bamotar (Shri Shantimathji), Andeshwar Parshvanath, Nagfani Parshvanath, Rishabhdev (Kesariyaji), Abu, and Tijara.
  • Gujarat: Taranga, Girnar, Songadh, Shatrunjay, Ghogha, Pavagadh, Mahuva (Vighnahar Parshvanath), Surat, Ankleshwar, Sajod, and Amizara Parshvanath.
  • Maharashtra: Gajpantha and Anjaneri, Mangitungi, Chandwad Caves, Borivali (Bombay), Dahigaon, Kundal (Kalikund Parshvanath), Bahubali, Kolhapur, Kunthalgiri, Dharashiv Caves, Ter, Savargaon, Kasar Ashta, Ellora Caves, Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad Caves, Paithan, Navagadh, Jintur, Shird Shahpur, Asegaon, Antariksha Parshvanath (Sirpur), Karanja, Badhona Ramnath, Bhatkuli, Ramtek, and Muktagiri.
• Detailed Descriptions of Sites: For each pilgrimage site, the book provides its location, routes for travel, historical and mythological background, descriptions of the main temples and idols, miraculous legends associated with them, and any relevant inscriptions or architectural features. It also mentions the local management committees and postal addresses for correspondence.
• Acknowledgement of Support: The book acknowledges the contributions of various individuals and organizations, notably the late Sahu Shantiprasadji, whose patronage was instrumental in the compilation and writing of the first three volumes and the initial planning for this volume. The Indian Gnanpith and the Bharat Varshiya Digambar Jain Tirthakshetra Committee are also credited for their coordination and support.
• Apology for Error: Pandit Balbhadra Jain apologizes for mistakenly placing Muktagiri in Maharashtra instead of Madhya Pradesh, explaining the reason for the confusion due to postal address discrepancies.

In essence, this volume serves as a comprehensive guide to the significant Digambar Jain pilgrimage sites in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, offering rich historical, mythological, and artistic details, compiled with the intention of facilitating spiritual journeys and preserving the legacy of these sacred places.