Gaurav Gatha Girnarni

Based on the provided pages, here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Gaurav Gatha Girnarni":

Book Title: Gaurav Gatha Girnarni Author: Purnachandrasuri Publisher: Panchprasthan Punyasmruti Prakashan Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/006182/1

Overall Theme and Purpose:

"Gaurav Gatha Girnarni" (The Glorious Saga of Girnar) is a Jain text authored by Acharya Purnachandrasuri. It celebrates the significance and glory of Girnar, a highly revered pilgrimage site in Jainism. The book aims to enlighten readers about the spiritual importance of Girnar, its historical anecdotes, the lives of exemplary individuals associated with it, and the various temples and sacred spots found there. It was published by Panchprasthan Punyasmruti Prakashan and released in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of Acharya Purnachandrasuri's ascension to the Acharya position. The publication is also dedicated to the spiritual endeavors of the Morakhia family, who supported the book's release.

Key Content and Sections (as indicated by the page content):

1. Introduction to Girnar:

   • Girnar is described as a holy land where the 22nd Tirthankar, Lord Neminath, took diksha (renunciation), attained kevalgyan (omniscience), and achieved nirvana (liberation).
   • It is the only place of such three auspicious events (kalyanakas) in West India.
   • Ten Jinheshwaras of the past Kalpa (eon) attained nirvana from Girnar.
   • All Tirthankaras of the upcoming Kalpa will achieve liberation from this mountain.
   • Millions of monks have attained and will attain salvation here.
   • Girnar is considered the fifth peak of Shatrunjay, also known as a Siddhagiri (mountain of liberation).
   • The book aims to take readers on a mental journey through the life events of devotees and the temples on Girnar.

2. Author and Publisher Information:

   • The book is a tribute to Acharya Purnachandrasuri, known for his profound spiritual knowledge and literary skills.
   • The publication is inspired by Acharya Vijay Yugachandrasuri.
   • The publisher is Panchprasthan Punyasmruti Prakashan, Surat.

3. List of Chapters/Stories (indicated on page 7): The book features 16 chapters, each presenting a significant event or aspect related to Girnar:

   1. Bhave Kevalgyan (Attaining Omniscience through Devotion)
   2. Runmukti (Liberation from Debt)
   3. Panch Paanch Balidan (Five Sacrifices)
   4. Kasoti to Kanchanni J Thay (The True Test is of Gold)
   5. Tirthni Raksha Kaje (For the Protection of the Holy Place)
   6. Devariya Munivar, Dhyanma Rahejho (Ascetic Munivar, Remain in Meditation)
   7. Yatrama Yuddh (War in the Pilgrimage)
   8. Patitmathi Pavan (From Fallen to Purified)
   9. Girnarni Geet-Gayika (The Songstress of Girnar)
   10. Shishya Vijay (Disciple's Victory)
   11. Bandhanmathi Mukti (Freedom from Bondage)
   12. Bahuratna Vasundhara (The Earth Full of Many Jewels)
   13. Hodma Homayelu Tirth (The Holy Place Sacrificed in a Bet)
   14. Shatru Sharanagat Banyo (The Enemy Became a Refugee)
   15. Mundne Vali Mudkushu? (Why shave the head and take the vow?)
   16. Gauravvanto Girnar ane Jinalayo (The Glorious Girnar and its Temples)

4. Detailed Summaries of Selected Chapters (based on provided pages):

   • Chapter 1: Bhave Kevalgyan: This chapter likely narrates a story about achieving omniscience through devotion. Page 11 mentions a ship journey facing a storm while heading towards Girnar, highlighting a challenge during the pilgrimage. Page 12 continues with Moti and Sumati, who remain peaceful amidst the storm, focusing on Lord Neminath's devotion, emphasizing that true knowledge comes from the heart and the state of omniscience.

   • Chapter 2: Runmukti: This story revolves around Dandnayak Bahad, the son of Minister Udayan, who strives to fulfill his father's wishes related to Girnar. His father desired to renovate the Yugadi temple and construct pathways on Girnar. Bahad successfully rebuilds the Yugadi temple and later undertakes the task of building the pathways, seeking the divine intervention of Ambika Devi to guide him. The chapter highlights the importance of fulfilling parental vows and the grace of divine beings.

   • Chapter 3: Panch Paanch Balidan (Five Sacrifices): This section depicts a conflict at Girnar where one sect tries to assert dominance through force. A follower named Dhar, along with his five sons, bravely fights against injustice, ultimately sacrificing their lives to protect the sanctity of the pilgrimage. The story emphasizes the courage and devotion of the followers in defending their faith.

   • Chapter 4: Kasoti to Kanchanni J Thay (The True Test is of Gold): This story focuses on Ratnashravak, a wealthy merchant from Kashmir, who undertakes a rigorous vow to visit Girnar. He vows to eat only one meal a day, sleep on the ground, and observe celibacy until he completes his pilgrimage. His devotion is tested by a monstrous "Pishach" (demon) that tries to thwart his journey. Ratnashravak, his wife Pauminī, and son Komal demonstrate immense courage and devotion, ultimately being protected by the divine intervention of Ambikadevi. The narrative underscores the idea that true worth (like gold) is revealed through trials.

   • Chapter 5: Tirthni Raksha Kaje (For the Protection of the Holy Place): This chapter details the struggle to protect Girnar from encroachment by the Buddhists. The local Jain community, facing persecution from the Buddhist king Khengar who supported the Buddhists, sought divine help. The story highlights the power of mantra-shakti (the power of mantras) through Muni Balbhadra, who effectively countered the king's oppressive actions, leading to the return of peace and the freedom of pilgrimage.

   • Chapter 6: Devariya Munivar, Dhyanma Rahejho (Ascetic Munivar, Remain in Meditation): This story appears to focus on a spiritual test faced by Muni Rathanemi (brother of Lord Neminath), who is tempted by the sight of the ascetic Shramani Rajul. The narrative emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus on meditation and spiritual practice amidst worldly temptations.

   • Chapter 10: Shishya Vijay (Disciple's Victory): This chapter recounts an event involving Acharya Hemchandrasuri and King Kumarpal at Girnar. When the mountain shook upon their arrival, a folk belief was cited that it signified the combined spiritual prowess of two great souls. Kumarpal, showing humility, insisted that Acharya Hemchandrasuri lead the pilgrimage, showcasing the victory of a disciple's devotion and respect for the guru.

   • Chapter 11: Bandhanmathi Mukti (Freedom from Bondage): This story traces the journey of King Narvahan of Ujjain. Blessed by Tirthankar Sagar, he learns that his liberation will come in the era of the 22nd Tirthankar, Lord Neminath, at Girnar. After renouncing his kingdom and achieving immense spiritual merit, he is reborn as Indra in Brahmaloka. Despite his heavenly existence, he feels bound and resolves to create a statue of Lord Neminath at Girnar to aid his eventual liberation.

   • Chapter 12: Bahuratna Vasundhara (The Earth Full of Many Jewels): This chapter focuses on Minister Sajjan, appointed as the administrator of Saurashtra by King Siddharaj. Sajjan, a devout Jain, uses the revenue from Saurashtra for the renovation of Girnar's temples. When Siddharaj, influenced by slanderous reports, demands an account, Sajjan faces a critical juncture. He relies on the loyalty of a humble donor, Bhim-Sathariya, whose immense hidden wealth ultimately proves crucial. The story highlights the hidden virtues of people and the triumph of integrity and faith.

   • Chapter 13: Hodma Homayelu Tirth (The Holy Place Sacrificed in a Bet): This chapter describes a contest between Svetambara and Digambara sects at Girnar to determine who has greater claim to the pilgrimage site. The decision is based on bidding with gold. The Svetambara sect, led by Minister Pethadshah, wins the bid, demonstrating the power of their devotion and financial commitment. The narrative also emphasizes Minister Pethadshah's integrity in fulfilling his vow to pay for the winning bid.

   • Chapter 14: Shatru Sharanagat Banyo (The Enemy Became a Refugee): This chapter recounts the story of a Muslim ruler, Sultan Sutrana, who, after witnessing the power of Girnar's idol and the devotion of Acharya Jinprabh Suri, converts from skepticism to faith. He attempts to test the divine power of the idol but is humbled and becomes a devotee. Later, faced with a plot by his own people to desecrate the idols, the Sultan's timely intervention and protection of the Jain temples are highlighted.

   • Chapter 15: Mundne Vali Mudkushu? (Why shave the head and take the vow?): This story likely deals with the imposition of a tax (mundakavaro) on pilgrims visiting Girnar. It describes how monks, with the support of Minister Vastupal, challenged this unjust tax, leading to its abolition and the village of Kuhadi being granted to the local community as compensation.

   • Chapter 16: Gauravvanto Girnar ane Jinalayo (The Glorious Girnar and its Temples): This is a descriptive section detailing the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of various temples and sacred spots on Girnar. It mentions the miraculous properties of the water in various kunds (ponds), the legends associated with caves and ascetics, and the importance of specific pilgrimage routes and deities like Ambikadevi. The text provides detailed descriptions of several temples, including the main Neminath temple, Jagmal Goradhan's Jain temple, Merakvashi's complex, Chandrabhaga Swamy's temple, and the Samavsaran temple. It also touches upon the historical context and the role of various patrons and spiritual figures in the development and upkeep of these sacred sites.

Key Takeaways:

• Girnar's Paramount Importance: Girnar is portrayed as a central and highly sacred pilgrimage destination for Jains, linked to numerous Tirthankaras and countless souls achieving liberation.
• Devotion and Trials: The book highlights that the path to spiritual attainment often involves trials, tests of faith, and sacrifices, which ultimately lead to purification and divine grace.
• The Power of Mantras and Divine Grace: The stories emphasize the efficacy of mantras, the grace of divine beings (like Ambikadevi), and the spiritual power of ascetics.
• Importance of Integrity and Vows: The narratives consistently praise individuals who uphold their vows, demonstrate integrity, and prioritize spiritual duties over personal comfort or worldly possessions.
• Historical and Architectural Significance: The text also serves as a guide to the various temples and architectural marvels on Girnar, providing historical context and details about their construction and patrons.
• Guruship and Discipleship: The importance of the guru-shishya parampara is showcased, particularly in the story of Acharya Hemchandrasuri and King Kumarpal.
• Interfaith Harmony and Tolerance: While celebrating Jain traditions, some narratives subtly touch upon interactions and resolutions with other religious communities.

In essence, "Gaurav Gatha Girnarni" is a devotional and historical compilation that aims to inspire reverence for Girnar, promote Jain principles, and preserve the rich legacy associated with this sacred mountain.