Girnar Galp

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Girnar Galp" by Lalitvijay, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Girnar Galp (Story/Chronicle of Girnar) Author: Lalitvijay Publisher: Hansvijayji Free Jain Library Publication Year: 1921 AD (Shree Veer Nirvana 2448, Atma Samvat 26, Vikram Samvat 1978) Price: Eight Annas

Overall Purpose and Theme: "Girnar Galp" is a Jain religious text that primarily focuses on the significance of Mount Girnar (also known as Raivatachal) as a sacred pilgrimage site in Jainism. It highlights the spiritual importance of Girnar, particularly its connection to the 22nd Tirthankar, Neminath. The book also delves into various aspects of Jain philosophy, history, and the lives of prominent Jain figures who contributed to the faith, often in relation to their efforts in protecting and promoting Jain pilgrimage sites like Girnar.

Key Content and Sections:

1. Introduction and Dedication (Pages 1-4):

   • The book begins with dedications and blessings to prominent Jain Acharyas like Shree Vijay Anand Suri and Shree Hans Vijayji Maharaj.
   • It establishes the lineage of spiritual succession leading to the author, Munishri Lalitvijayji.
   • The publication details are provided, along with the year of publication.
   • Page 4 introduces the biography of Paneyas Mani Vijayji Maharaj, detailing his parents' devout nature and their role in fostering his spiritual inclination. It also mentions the visit of Muni Acharya Sagarji Maharaj to Kapadvanj, where he delivered discourses that inspired many.

2. Biography of Munishri Manilal (later Manivijayji) and Hemchand (later Kanakvijay) (Pages 4-10):

   • The narrative shifts to the family of Shah Maganlal, a devout Jain, and his wife Jamnabai. They had two sons, Manilal and Hemchand.
   • Both sons were educated and married. Their upbringing was deeply influenced by their religious father, leading them to a life of devotion and learning, including reciting the Navkar mantra and studying Jain scriptures.
   • Manilal, being older and widowed, eventually took diksha (initiation into monkhood) under Muni Acharya Vijayvijayji and became Munishri Manivijayji.
   • Hemchand, being younger and recently married, initially did not take diksha but retained his renunciation. Later, he was also initiated by Shrimad Vijay Siddhishuri and named Kanakvijay.
   • The text mentions the societal and familial difficulties they faced, including attempts to prevent their renunciation by relatives.

3. Jain Philosophy and Cosmology (Pages 12-17):

   • The book discusses the concept of "Aastik" (believer) in Jainism, defining it as someone who accepts the existence of soul, non-soul, good and bad deeds, bondage, salvation, birth, rebirth, heaven, hell, and God.
   • It elaborates on the attributes of God in Jainism, referring to Tirthankaras as embodiments of infinite knowledge, vision, bliss, and power.
   • It explains the Jain cosmology, including the cycles of time (kalachakra), the utsarpini (ascending) and avsarpini (descending) eras, and the division into six aras (periods).
   • The twenty-four Tirthankaras of the current avsarpini era are listed, from Rishabhdev to Mahavir.
   • The concept of kalyanakas (auspicious events in a Tirthankar's life) is introduced, specifically mentioning that three out of the five Kalyanakas of the 22nd Tirthankar, Neminath, occurred at Mount Girnar.

4. Historical Anecdotes and Figures related to Girnar (Pages 18-113):

   • The text extensively discusses the historical importance of Jainism and its patrons, particularly in Gujarat and surrounding regions.
   • It mentions the efforts of rulers and ministers like Vanraj Chavda, Siddharaj Jayasinh, and especially Kumarpal, who were devout followers or patrons of Jainism.
   • The significant contributions of ministers Vastupal and Tejpal are detailed, including their extensive construction of Jain temples, renovation of existing ones, and their deep devotion to pilgrimage sites like Shatrunjay and Girnar. Their charitable works are enumerated.
   • The book highlights instances of challenges faced by Jainism, such as the conversion of rulers to Buddhism or other faiths and subsequent efforts by Jain Acharyas and patrons to reclaim and protect Jain temples and sites.
   • A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the Girnar Ras, a poetic narrative detailing a pilgrimage to Girnar undertaken by Ratan Sheth (a merchant from Kashmir). This section recounts the journey, the obstacles faced (like a demon or spirit), the divine intervention by Ambika Mata, and the eventual successful completion of the pilgrimage, including the consecration of Neminath's idol.
   • It mentions the spiritual prowess of Jain Acharyas like Hemchandracharya, whose teachings influenced kings like Kumarpal.
   • The book includes references to various Jain historical texts and literature that corroborate the accounts, such as "Prabandh Chintamani," "Kirtikaumudi," "Sukrut Sankirtan," and various "Kumarapal Charitra" versions.
   • The text emphasizes the importance of tirtha yatra (pilgrimage) and the immense spiritual merit gained by visiting sacred places like Girnar.

5. Specific Details about Girnar (Pages 18, 42-43, 101-113):

   • Girnar is identified as "Raivatachal" and "Ujjayant Giri."
   • It is stated that the 22nd Tirthankar, Neminath, had his diksha, kevalgyan (omniscience), and nirvana (liberation) at Girnar.
   • The text describes the sanctity of various locations on Girnar, including the Gajpad Kund, and the existence of various dhunks (hills/peaks) with temples.
   • The book details the specific contributions of Vastupal and Tejpal, including the construction of temples on Girnar and the installation of idols of various Tirthankaras and other deities.
   • The narrative of Ratan Sheth's pilgrimage vividly illustrates the challenges and devotion associated with visiting Girnar.

6. Concluding Remarks and Blessings (Pages 113-114):

   • The book concludes with prayers and blessings for the spiritual upliftment of the readers and the flourishing of Jainism.
   • The author expresses gratitude and seeks forgiveness for any errors or omissions.

Key Figures Mentioned:

• Neminath: The 22nd Tirthankar, central to the narrative.
• Vastupal and Tejpal: Prominent ministers and patrons of Jainism who significantly contributed to the development and protection of Jain sites.
• Kumarapal: A significant Gujarati king who was a devout follower of Jainism.
• Siddharaj Jayasinh: Another influential king who had connections with Jainism.
• Ratan Sheth: A merchant from Kashmir who undertakes a pilgrimage to Girnar, facing obstacles.
• Ambika Mata: A divine mother figure who intervenes to help the pilgrims.
• Hemchandracharya: A renowned Jain scholar and spiritual leader.
• Lalitvijay: The author of the book.

Overall Significance: "Girnar Galp" serves as a valuable historical and religious document for Jains. It not only elucidates the spiritual significance of Girnar but also narrates the historical efforts of devout individuals and rulers in preserving and promoting Jain heritage. It highlights the enduring power of faith, devotion, and patronage in maintaining the sanctity of pilgrimage sites and the continuity of Jain traditions. The inclusion of the "Girnar Ras" adds a narrative and poetic dimension to the historical and philosophical discourse.