Giriraj Sparshana - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Giriraj Sparshana":

Book Title: Giriraj Sparshana Author: Muni Nityanandvijay Publisher: Jambuswami Jain Muktabai Agammandir Overall Theme: The book is a devotional guide and descriptive account of Shatrunjaya Hill (Giriraj), a significant pilgrimage site in Jainism, revered as the abode of Lord Adinath (Rishabhdev). It aims to provide readers with a spiritual and experiential connection to the sacred mountain.

Key Aspects and Content:

Devotional Introduction:
- The book begins with salutations to Lord Adinath and the lineage of Acharyas who inspired the work.
- It expresses joy in presenting the second edition, highlighting the immense popularity and demand for the first edition, which sold out quickly.
Purpose and Experience:
- The text emphasizes that reading this book provides an experience akin to physically touching and visiting the sacred Giriraj.
- It is intended to be a comprehensive guide for pilgrims, offering detailed information about the holy site.
Authorship and Inspiration:
- Authored by Muni Nityanandvijay, a disciple of Acharya Shrimad Vijay Jambusurishwarji Maharaj.
- The work was prepared in the serene atmosphere of Siddhagiri under the inspiration of Pt. Shreivatvijayji Ganivar.
- The second edition includes improvements, additions, and the inclusion of the "Navanu Prakari Puja" (Ninety-Nine Types of Worship).
Context and Occasion:
- The publication of this second edition coincides with the 25th anniversary of Arya Shree Jambuswami Jain Muktabai Gyanmandir.
- It also commemorates various significant events like the Silver Jubilee celebration organized by Seth Shree Chhaganlal Laxmichand, the extensive tapasya (austerities) undertaken by Muniraj Shree Devbhadravijayji and Muni Lashisenvijayji, and the austerities performed by Sadhvi Shree Kalyanji.
Content Breakdown (Sections/Divisions):
- Introduction & Testimonials: Includes "Nivedan" (Publisher's Note), "Be Bol" (Author's Note), and a biography of the generous donor, Seth Amratlal Bhavanjibhai.
- Devotional Hymns: Features "Giriraj Stuti" (praise hymns dedicated to Giriraj).
- Table of Contents: A detailed index outlining the book's structure.
- Corrections: A "Shuddhi Patrak" (Errata) for printing errors.
- Dedication: The book is dedicated to the author's Guru, Acharya Shrimad Vijay Jambusurishwarji Maharaj.
- Main Body (Divisions):
  - Division One: Focuses on the glory of Giriraj, the fruits of worshipping Shatrunjaya, the merits of pilgrimage, the significance of austerities performed there, the arrival of Tirthankaras, historical renovations and reconstructions of the great Tirth, the names of those who attained liberation there, 108 names of Giriraj, the Shatrunjaya Mahatirth Kalpa, and the influence of pilgrimage. It includes narratives like the story of Susharma and King Trivikrama.
  - Division Two: Provides practical guidance for the journey. It covers the route from the station to the foothills, details of dharamshalas (rest houses), necessary instructions, temple rituals, the reasons behind performing specific types of worship (like Navanga Puja), the meaning of Varchasdan, and the fourteen miracles associated with the Tirth. It also describes the path from the foothills to the summit, including important footprints and landmarks like the Sahastrakut, Agni Pratima, the glory of Suryakund, and the significance of the Rayan tree. It also describes the "Navatuk" (nine mounds/shrines) and the "Sametshikharji" connection. It includes details about the city of Palitana and the history of its founding.
  - Division Three: Discusses the rituals and observances related to the "Navanu Yatra" (Ninety-Nine Pilgrimages) and its associated practices like the "Aththam Tap" (fasting for eight days) and "Khamasamana" (prostrations).
  - Division Four: Contains devotional hymns and prayers to be recited in the presence of the Lord, including various "Chaitya Vandan" (veneration of temples) and "Stavanas" (praise songs).
  - Division Five: Features the "Navanu Prakari Puja" (Ninety-Nine Types of Worship) in detail, along with accompanying mantras and the significance of performing worship with various limbs of the body.
Key Themes and Teachings:
- Eternal Nature of Shatrunjaya: The hill is described as "Shaashwat" (eternal), meaning it was not constructed by anyone and has existed and will continue to exist for immeasurable time. Its size fluctuates with the epochs (aras) of the descending and ascending time cycles.
- Immense Merits of Pilgrimage: The book elaborates on the countless benefits gained from visiting Giriraj, including the destruction of negative karma, attainment of spiritual merits, and eventual liberation (moksha). Performing acts of devotion, charity, and penance on Giriraj yields exponentially greater results.
- Significance of Devotion: Through stories and descriptions, the text highlights the power of sincere devotion and adherence to Jain principles, even for those with past negative karma.
- Importance of Rituals and Observances: Detailed instructions are given on how to perform the pilgrimage, including aspects like purity of mind, speech, and body, the correct way to perform worship, and the significance of various steps and locations.
- Historical Renovations (Uddhara): The book chronicles the numerous times Giriraj has been renovated and rebuilt throughout history by kings, emperors, wealthy patrons, and religious leaders, demonstrating its enduring importance.
- The Power of Tapa (Austerities): The text repeatedly emphasizes that performing austerities on Giriraj, even simple ones like fasting, yields immense spiritual benefits, often multiplied manifold compared to similar acts elsewhere.
- Inclusion of Various Deities and Figures: The text mentions the presence and veneration of various figures associated with the Tirth, including Tirthankaras, Ganadharas, Yakshas, Yakshinis, and royal patrons.
- Practical Guidance: It provides detailed information for modern-day pilgrims, including travel routes, accommodation, and essential instructions to ensure a respectful and spiritually beneficial visit.
- The Concept of "Bhavna" (Inner Feeling): The ultimate goal is to cultivate a deep inner connection and devotion, making the physical act of pilgrimage a catalyst for spiritual transformation.
Notable Features:
- Detailed Descriptions: Vivid descriptions of the mountain, its temples, shrines, footprints of saints, and natural features.
- Historical Accounts: Chronicles of ancient kings, Tirthankaras, and significant historical figures who visited or contributed to Giriraj.
- Instructions for Rituals: Clear guidance on performing various forms of worship, circumambulations, and other devotional practices.
- Stories and Legends: Engaging narratives illustrating the spiritual power and efficacy of Giriraj.
- Auspicious Names: Lists 108 auspicious names of Giriraj and 21 names from the Shatrunjaya Mahatmya.

In essence, "Giriraj Sparshana" serves as a spiritual compass, a historical record, and a devotional manual for anyone seeking to understand, experience, and connect with the sanctity of Shatrunjaya, a paramount pilgrimage for Jains worldwide.