Chalo Girnar Jaie

This document is a comprehensive guide to the Girnar Jain Tirth (sacred pilgrimage site), titled "Chalo Girnar Jaie" (Let's Go to Girnar), authored by Munishri Hemvallabh Vijayji. It is published by Shri Girnar Mahatirtha Vikas Samiti, Junagadh. The book details the significance, history, legends, and rituals associated with Girnar, a revered pilgrimage site for the Shvetambar Murtipujak Jain sect.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects covered in the text:

1. Introduction and Significance of Girnar (Page 6-7):

• Girnar (also known as Raivatgiri or Ujjayanta) is considered one of the most sacred Tirthas in Jainism, alongside Shatrunjay.
• Despite its immense importance, the author notes a perceived lack of awareness and neglect of Girnar among the Shvetambar community compared to Shatrunjay.
• The text highlights that Girnar is revered by various Hindu traditions as well, including Vaishnavism, Shaivism, and devotees of Ambaji and Dattatreya.
• The author was inspired by his Guru, Acharya Shri Himanshu Surishwarji Maharaj, to compile this literature, aiming to educate the community about Girnar's grandeur and ensure it receives due recognition.

2. Historical and Mythological Accounts (Pages 15-44):

• Tirthankaras and Girnar: The text lists numerous Tirthankaras from past, present, and future cycles who have attained liberation or performed significant life events at Girnar. Notably, the 22nd Tirthankara of the current era, Lord Neminath, attained initiation, Keval Gyan (omniscience), and Moksha (liberation) at Girnar.
• Lord Neminath's Statue: An extensive history of the main idol of Lord Neminath is provided, detailing its ancient origins, creation by Brahma, and its presence in different celestial and earthly realms. The statue is described as extremely ancient, dating back to the time of the third Tirthankara of the previous era, Sagar.
• Devotion and Miracles: Numerous accounts of devotees and their miraculous experiences at Girnar are narrated, showcasing the power of faith and devotion. This includes stories of merchants, kings, and even animals achieving spiritual merit or worldly benefits through their connection with Girnar.
• Origin of Ambikadevi: The origin story of Ambikadevi, the presiding deity (Shasan Adhishthayika) of Girnar, is detailed, tracing her past lives and her devotion to Jain principles.
• Gomedeh Yaksha: The story of Gomedeh Yaksha, another important deity associated with Girnar, is narrated, explaining his transformation from a sinful life to becoming a protector of the Tirth through the teachings of a Jain monk.
• Rajrishi Bhimsen: The life story of Rajrishi Bhimsen is presented as an example of overcoming past sins through devotion to Girnar, illustrating how even severe wrongdoings can be redeemed through penance and Tirth Seva.
• Ashokchandra: This section narrates the story of Ashokchandra, who, after enduring a life of poverty and misfortune, found solace and prosperity through Girnar's grace and later became a righteous ruler.
• Vastupal-Tejpal: The architectural and philanthropic contributions of the renowned ministers Vastupal and Tejpal in renovating and building temples at Girnar are highlighted, emphasizing their deep devotion and commitment to Jainism.
• Bhima Sathariya: The narrative of Bhima Sathariya, a humble devotee whose devotion led to the resolution of a dispute over the Tirth's ownership and the construction of important structures, is shared.
• Truth Prevails (Satyamev Jayate): This section recounts a historical incident where a dispute over the ownership of Girnar between Shvetambars and Digambars was resolved through a test of faith, with the Shvetambar adherence to Jain principles ultimately prevailing.
• Tirth Bhakti (Devotion to the Tirth): The story of Dhar Shravak and his five sons is narrated, who sacrificed their lives for the protection and ownership of Girnar, becoming its presiding deities.
• Miraculous Occurrences: Several "Ajab-Gajab ni Vato" (wonderful and strange tales) related to Girnar are presented, including instances of divine intervention, miraculous transformations, and the presence of powerful spiritual beings.

3. Key Locations and Structures at Girnar (Pages 88-117):

• Pathways and Landmarks: The text provides a detailed description of the pilgrimage route, mentioning various significant points like Hanuman Mandir, Neminath Bhagwan's footprints, various wells (parabs), ancient trees, temples dedicated to Hindu deities, caves, and rock inscriptions.
• Jinalayas (Temples): The book describes several important Jain temples on Girnar, including:
  • Shri Neminathji ni Tunk (main temple)
  • Shri Adinath Bhagwan's Jinalay (Jagmaldhan Goradhan Jinalay)
  • Merakavashi ni Tunk, including the Panchameru Jinalay, Adabadji Jinalay, and Sahasraphana Parshvanath Jinalay.
  • Sagaram Soni ni Tunk (also known as Samarsinh Maldev's Jinalay)
  • Kumarpal ni Tunk (with Shri Abhinandan Swami)
  • Bhima Kund and Nagimata's temple.
  • Shri Chandrapabh Swami's Jinalay.
  • Gajpad Kund (also known as Elephant Footprint Kund), with its detailed mythological significance and healing properties.
  • Vastupal-Tejpal ni Tunk (with Shri Shamala Parshvanath).
  • Gumasta nu Derasar (Shri Sambhavnath Bhagwan) and Samprati Raja ni Tunk (Shri Neminath Bhagwan).
  • Shanvav nu Jinalay and Madhvalu Derasar (Shri Shantinath Bhagwan).
  • Rajul Gufa and Premchandji ni Gufa.
  • Choumukhji nu Derasar.
  • Rahanemi nu Jinalay (with the idol of Siddhatma Rahanemi).
  • Ambaji ni Tunk and Gorakhnath ni Tunk.
  • Oghad Tunk.
  • Panchmi Tunk (Moksha Kalyanaka Tunk) with Lord Neminath's footprints.
  • Kamandal Kund and Sahasavan (land of initiation and Keval Gyan of Lord Neminath).
  • Samavasaran Mandir.

4. Rituals and Practices:

• 99 Yatras of Girnar: The text explains the concept of performing 99 Yatras (pilgrimages) of Girnar, detailing the specific observances required for each Yatra, including temple visits, prayers, circumambulations, and specific vows like fasting.
• Daily Rituals: Daily practices like Pratikraman, Jin Puja, Ekasan (one-time meal), Bhoomi Santharo (sleeping on the floor), and the chanting of mantras are mentioned.

5. Guidance for Pilgrims:

• The book offers practical advice for pilgrims, including the importance of respecting the Tirth, the legends associated with various sites, and the spiritual benefits of performing Yatras.

6. Publisher and Author:

• The book is published by Shri Girnar Mahatirtha Vikas Samiti, Junagadh.
• The author is Munishri Hemvallabh Vijayji, a disciple of Muni Dharmarakshit Vijayji, who is a disciple of Shasanprabhavak Panannyas Chandrashekhar Vijayji Ganivarya.

In essence, "Chalo Girnar Jaie" is a devotional and informative book designed to inspire Jains to undertake the pilgrimage to Girnar, highlighting its spiritual importance, rich history, and the profound blessings that can be attained through devotion at this sacred Tirth.