Chamatkaro Ki Duniya Me Mahuri Parshvanath - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Chamatkaro ki Duniya me Mahuri Parshvanath" (The World of Miracles in Mahuri Parshvanath), based on the given excerpt:

Overview:

The book, authored by Muni Pravar Shri Rajratnasagarji Maharaj, explores the miraculous and historical significance of the Mahuri Parshvanath idol. It highlights the role of art and architecture in preserving culture and emphasizes the unique artistic heritage of Jainism. The text argues that the Mahuri Parshvanath idol is not only ancient but also possesses miraculous qualities, drawing parallels to other historical Jain sites and figures.

Key Points and Arguments:

Art and Culture Preservation: The introduction posits that art and architecture have played a crucial role in preserving religion and values in both spiritual and material environments. Indian culture, particularly Jain culture, is lauded for its distinctive and admirable artistic achievements, including ancient temples and idols, whose craftsmanship, grandeur, and radiance are described as beyond words.
Endurance of Faith Amidst Adversity: The author contrasts the present-day global struggles with intolerance, envy, and malice with the enduring legacy of ancestral endeavors. Despite facing severe famines, political turmoil, anarchy, and communal hatred around 1000 BCE, our ancestors managed to preserve substantial material works through their faith and sacrifice.
Mahuri Parshvanath as a Miraculous and Historical Site: Shri Mahuri Parshvanath is presented as a pilgrimage site that is not only ancient but also historically significant and miraculous.
Evidence of Antiquity:
- A verse from the "Jagchintamani Sutra," recited by Guru Gautamswamiji during the worship of Ashtapad Teerth, mentions "Muharipas Duh Duria Khandan," referring to Mahuri Parshvanath. This verse connects the deity to the present location of Tinto, which is near the village of Muhari (a 5-mile distance).
- Ruins and remnants of ancient structures, including a 52-temple complex, have been found in and around Muhari village. Legends suggest that gold coins (muhrs) have been found there, leading excavators to estimate the existence of a large city 2500-3000 years ago.
- Unusually strong bricks (18x10 inches, weighing over 10 kg) of a specific color (Higalogia) are scattered for 2-3 miles, indicating ancient construction.
- Approximately 55 years prior to the writing, a human skeleton 30 feet high was found in the area.
- The proximity to the Jain site of Shabalati (100 miles away) and the existence of a grand idol at Nagkanawali (9 miles away, currently under Digambar control) further suggest a historically significant Jain presence.
- One author suggests the idol's features and craftsmanship are similar to the statue of Lord Mahavir Swami in Mahuva (Saurashtra), which was made during his lifetime, indicating contemporaneity.
- Another view suggests the idol dates back to Emperor Samprati's reign due to similar embellishments (like "take"). However, the author counters that the presence of "take" alone isn't definitive proof, as there's no evidence that such embellishments weren't used before Samprati's time.
Origin of the Name "Mahuri Parshvanath":
- One explanation is that the idol has a large enough depression at its feet to fit a gold coin (muhr), hence the name.
- Another popular belief is that the King of Mewar used to present a gold coin (muhr) during his darshan (visit), leading to the name.
Miracles at Tinto:
- The Jain Community and the Non-Jain Family: A non-Jain family residing next to the Jain temple in Tinto was advised by Jain elders to take a funeral procession via a different route, as passing by the deity was considered inauspicious. The non-Jain family refused due to their differing beliefs. After the procession passed the temple, another person from the same family died shortly after. The family, filled with regret, apologized to the temple.
- The Thakur and his Horses: Similarly, a Thakur (local chieftain) refused the Jain community's request to not pass a dead horse in front of the temple. Despite a reminder of the previous incident, he dismissed the plea. His intransigence led to the death of a second horse shortly after, and then a third within three hours. The Thakur finally relented, acknowledged the power of Parshvanath Prabhu, and sought forgiveness.
Significance of the Idol: The idol of Mahuri Parshvanath is described as a pleasing and luminous manifestation, effective in fulfilling the wishes of devotees.
Purpose of Pilgrimage: The text reflects on the purpose of pilgrimage, suggesting it should be undertaken with pure intentions for spiritual upliftment and self-welfare. However, it laments that many undertake pilgrimages with selfish desires and materialistic expectations, burdening their minds with negative emotions, thus hindering their spiritual progress.
True Devotion: The author defines true devotion as unwavering commitment, exemplified by Ravana and Mandodari's devotion and Chandanbala's heartfelt sorrow. This kind of selfless devotion is said to attract liberation.
Call to Action: The book concludes by encouraging readers to visit the Mahuri Parshvanath pilgrimage site with the intention of worshipping the "unique" Mahuri Parshvanath to set their lives on the right path.
Discovery of the Idol: The current Mahuri Parshvanath pilgrimage site is located in the Sabarkantha district in the village of Titoi. In 1828 (V.S.), a Muni received a dream indicating the idol's location. Following this, devotees searched a deep ravine in the hills and found the ancient, luminous, and miraculous idol, along with statues of Yaksha and Goddess Padmavati. These idols were then brought to Tinto and consecrated in a grand temple with a tall spire.

This summary captures the main themes, historical claims, miraculous accounts, and philosophical reflections presented in the provided excerpt of the book.