Ghantakarn Mahavir Dev

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Ghantakarn Mahavir Dev," based on the provided document:

Book Title: Ghantakarn Mahavir Dev Author(s): Mahudi Jain Shwetambar Murtipujak Trust (implied by publisher and content, specifically referencing the compositions of Acharya Shrimad Buddhisagar Surishwarji) Publisher: Shri Mahudi (Madhupuri) Jain Shwetambar Murtipujak Trust, Mahudi Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/005346/1

This book is a collection of prayers, hymns, and discourses related to Shri Ghantakarn Mahavir Dev, a significant guardian deity in Jainism, particularly revered at the Mahudi Tirth. The text emphasizes his role as a "Pragat Prabhavak Shasan Rakshak" (Manifest and Influential Protector of the Jain Faith).

Key Themes and Content:

1. Introduction and Author:

   • The book is presented as part of the "Shrimad Buddhisagar Suri Granthamala," dedicated to the works of the late Acharya Shrimad Buddhisagar Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb, a renowned scholar and yogi.
   • The preface highlights the author's intent to address doubts and provide spiritual guidance during a time of societal transition. It expresses humility and a request for forgiveness for any inaccuracies in his writings, seeking correction from learned scholars.
   • The author emphasizes his commitment to serving the Jain dharma and community without selfish motive, even in the face of criticism.

2. The Significance of Ghantakarn Mahavir Dev:

   • Ghantakarn Mahavir is presented as one of the "Bavan Veers" (52 heroes) and a protector of the Jain Shasan (faith).
   • The text asserts that Ghantakarn Mahavir Dev can indeed provide assistance to devoted Jains.
   • The book strongly defends the traditional acceptance and worship of Shasan Devatas (guardian deities) like Ghantakarn Mahavir within Jainism, grounding this practice in ancient scriptures and the unbroken lineage of Jain Acharyas.
   • It explains that Shasan Devatas are considered "Samyakdrishti" (right-viewed) Jain deities, thus viewed as fellow spiritual beings or "Sadharmik Bandhu Dev" (brothers in faith).
   • The text clarifies that while Tirthankaras are Vitaraga (free from attachment and aversion) and reside in Siddhashila, the miracles attributed to them (like creating armies of bees or turning back armies) are actually performed by their devoted Shasan Devatas who are "Ragi" (possessing attachment) and act in accordance with the Tirthankara's teachings.

3. Scriptural Basis and Tradition:

   • The book extensively discusses the concept of "Paramparagam" (traditional teachings passed down through generations) in Jainism, emphasizing its importance for understanding various beliefs.
   • It highlights the role of "Mantra Pravad Purva" and "Mantra Kalpa Shastras" (ancient texts dealing with mantras and rituals) composed by past Acharyas.
   • The text mentions the presence of various mantra texts like Navkar Mantra Kalpa, Usavaggharahar Mantra Kalpa, and others, which are accepted by both Shwetambar and Digambar Jains.
   • It details the lineage of practices, mentioning that Tapa Gaccha Acharyas composed texts like Ashtottari Shanti Snatra, and authors like Acharya Sakalchandra included Ghantakarn Mahavir's mantra in their works.
   • The tradition of installing Ghantakarn Mahavir's Yantra in every Jain consecration ceremony within the Tapa Gaccha is highlighted.

4. Addressing Doubts and Misconceptions:

   • A significant portion of the book is dedicated to answering questions and clarifying beliefs, particularly concerning the role of deities in Jainism and the concept of karma.
   • Karma and Divine Aid: It explains that while karma is the primary cause of one's happiness and suffering (Upaadan Karan), deities act as instrumental causes (Nimitta Karan). Divine assistance is dependent on the devotee's own good karma and devotion. Nikachit karma (predetermined karma that must be experienced) cannot be overcome even by divine intervention, whereas Anikachit karma can be modified.
   • Respect for Other Religions: The author expresses a philosophical view that one can seek help from individuals of other faiths for worldly needs without compromising their own Jain faith or incurring spiritual harm, similar to how Jains rely on societal contributions from non-Jains.
   • The Nature of Miracles: Miracles attributed to Tirthankaras are explained as the actions of their devoted Shasan Devatas. Tirthankaras, being Vitaraga, do not directly intervene from Siddhashila, but their devotees (like Ghantakarn Mahavir) do so in their name.
   • Criticism of Modern Reformers: The book critiques certain modern reformers who question Jain scriptures and traditions, labelling them as misguided, influenced by atheistic ideas, and potentially leading others astray. It strongly advocates for adhering to the teachings of Acharyas and scriptures.
   • Comparison with Mahatma Gandhi: The author discusses Mahatma Gandhi's principles, acknowledging his positive qualities as a national leader and advocating for interfaith harmony. However, it firmly distinguishes Gandhi's teachings from those of Tirthankaras, particularly regarding the concept of an Ishwara (God) and the path of renunciation. The author emphasizes that while Gandhi may have exhibited admirable moral conduct, he cannot be considered a Jain Mahatma or a source of absolute Jain truth.

5. Rituals and Prayers:

   • The book contains detailed instructions and hymns for performing the Ghantakarn Mahavir Puja and Mangal Puja.
   • It includes a Snatra Puja Vidhi (ritualistic bath) for deities, specifically mentioning the practice of offering Panchamrit (a mixture of five nectars) and the detailed steps for the ceremony, including the use of Kalash (water pots), Swastik symbols, and various offerings.
   • There are specific hymns for worshipping various Tirthankaras, emphasizing their virtues and the auspiciousness of their worship.
   • The Ghantakarn Mahavir puja itself involves specific steps like offering Dhoop (incense), Deep (lamps), Pushpa (flowers), Sukhadi (a sweet offering), and Nariyal (coconut).
   • Aarti (waving of lamps) and Mangal Deep (auspicious lamp) rituals are described.
   • The text includes various Mantra Japa (chanting) sequences for Ghantakarn Mahavir, emphasizing their power to ward off diseases, grant peace, prosperity, and protection. These mantras are presented with transliterated Sanskrit and Gujarati script.
   • A section is dedicated to the Oshia Mata Stuti, indicating a broader reverence for protective deities.
   • Guru Stuti (praise of the Guru) and Guru Aarti are included, highlighting the importance of the spiritual teacher, specifically referencing Acharya Buddhisagar Surishwarji.

6. The Mahudi Tirth:

   • The book explicitly mentions Mahudi (Madhupuri) as the location where Ghantakarn Mahavir is established and worshipped.
   • It describes the presence of Ghantakarn Mahavir's idol outside the Padmaprabh Jinmandir at Mahudi and the current practice of worshipping him there.

Overall Message:

The book aims to strengthen faith in Jain traditions, particularly the veneration of Shasan Devatas like Ghantakarn Mahavir. It seeks to educate devotees about the scriptural basis for these practices, clarify potential doubts, and guide them in performing devotional rituals correctly. It encourages a balanced approach to spirituality, recognizing both the ultimate goal of liberation through Tirthankara's teachings and the practical assistance offered by devoted Shasan Devatas in worldly and spiritual matters. The author's strong emphasis on tradition and scriptural adherence serves as a defense against perceived modern secular or atheistic influences.