Jain Tirth Aur Unki Yatra

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Jain Tirth aur Unki Yatra" by Kamtaprasad Jain:

Book Title: Jain Tirth aur Unki Yatra (Jain Sacred Places and Their Pilgrimage) Author: Kamtaprasad Jain Publisher: Digambar Jain Parishad Publishing House Publication Date: August 1946 (Second Edition)

Overall Purpose and Scope:

The book "Jain Tirth aur Unki Yatra" aims to provide a general overview and highlight the significance of Jain sacred sites (Tirthas) and the importance of undertaking pilgrimages to them. While it acknowledges that the detailed historical aspect of Jain Tirthas is vast and not fully covered, it serves as a guide for students and devotees alike to understand the spiritual benefits and importance of these sacred locations. The author was motivated to write this book by Shri Ugrasen Ji for the Jain Parishad examination syllabus, and its second edition includes revisions and enhancements.

Key Themes and Concepts:

1. Definition and Significance of a Tirtha:

   • The word "Tirtha" is derived from the root "Tr" (to cross), signifying a means to cross the ocean of worldly existence (Samsara).
   • Beyond just sacred places, "Tirtha" can also refer to scriptures, spiritual guides (Upadhyaya), means, righteous deeds, and holy places.
   • In common parlance, it refers to sacred places worshipped and revered by Jains.
   • Tirthas are special places where great souls have attained self-realization (Siddhi) through intense spiritual practice (Sadhana). These places are imbued with the purifying power of these enlightened beings.
   • The concept of Tirthas is deeply rooted in Jain philosophy, which emphasizes detachment, self-control, and spiritual upliftment.

2. Types of Tirthas:

   • Nirvana-Kalyanak Sthanas (Liberation Sites): Places where Tirthankaras (Jain spiritual leaders) attained their final liberation (Nirvana). These are considered supremely revered.
   • Kalyanak Sthanas: Places where the four auspicious events (Conception, Birth, Renunciation, and Enlightenment/Kevalgyan) of Tirthankaras occurred.
   • Kevali Mahapurusha Nirvana Sthanas: Liberation sites of ordinary enlightened beings (Kevalis) and other great souls.
   • Atishaya Kshetras (Miraculous Sites): Places where significant miraculous events have occurred, or where exceptionally powerful and divine idols are present, inspiring spiritual contemplation.

3. Benefits of Tirtha Yatra (Pilgrimage):

   • Spiritual Advancement: The primary benefit is spiritual, leading to increased merit (punya), purity of soul, and a closer connection to the path of liberation. It helps in shedding karmic impurities.
   • Personal Development: Pilgrimage fosters detachment from worldly pleasures, cultivates a broader perspective, reduces narrow-mindedness, and instills courage and self-reliance.
   • Cultural and Historical Knowledge: It provides exposure to diverse regions of India, their cultures, traditions, languages, and historical sites, enhancing knowledge and experience.
   • Social Connection: Pilgrims have the opportunity to connect with fellow Jains, observe community institutions, and experience a sense of collective identity and pride.
   • Inspiration and Motivation: Visiting Tirthas inspires devotion, strengthens faith, and motivates individuals to pursue spiritual goals, including virtuous conduct and acts of charity.
   • Peace and Tranquility: The serene and sacred atmosphere of Tirthas provides a sense of peace and mental clarity, helping to overcome worldly anxieties.

4. Conduct During Tirtha Yatra:

   • Inner Purity: True pilgrimage is not just about physical travel but about purifying the inner self by shedding anger, greed, and other negative emotions.
   • Devotion and Reverence: Pilgrims should approach Tirthas with devotion, observe rituals like circumambulation (Parikrama), prayer, and study of scriptures.
   • Simple Living: Recommended practices include simple living, such as eating one meal a day, sleeping on the ground, traveling on foot, abstaining from certain foods, and maintaining celibacy (Brahmacharya) where possible.
   • Respect for Sacred Sites: Maintaining the sanctity and cleanliness of Tirthas is paramount. This includes proper disposal of waste and respecting the atmosphere of peace and meditation.
   • Charity: Compassion and charity towards the less fortunate encountered on the journey are encouraged.
   • Caution and Prudence: The book provides practical advice, including being cautious with belongings, hygiene, carrying necessary items (like medicines and books), and avoiding dubious individuals.

5. Detailed Directory of Tirthas: The book meticulously lists and describes numerous Jain Tirthas across various regions of India, including:

   • United Provinces (Uttar Pradesh): Mathura, Hastinapur, Ayodhya, Ahichhatra, Kausambi, Varanasi, Shravasti, Kampilya, etc.
   • Central Provinces and Central India (Madhya Pradesh & Madhya Bharat): Ujjain, Sonagiri, Muktagiri, Dronagiri, Nainagiri, Khajuraho, etc.
   • Rajputana and Malwa (Rajasthan & Madhya Pradesh): Ajmer, Mount Abu, Mahavirji, Kesariyaji (Rishabhdev), Chittorgarh, Indore, Ujjain, etc.
   • Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa: Sammed Shikharji (Parasnath Hill), Kundalpur, Rajgir, Pawapur, Khandagiri-Udaigiri, etc.
   • Bombay Province (Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka): Girnar, Pavagad, Mangi-Tungi, Shatrunjay (Palitana), Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Kuntalgiri, Gajpantha, etc.
   • Madras Province (South India): Shravanbelagola, Moodbidri, Karikal, Udyagiri, Kanchipuram, etc.

   For each Tirtha, the book provides its ancient name, present location, accessibility via railway stations, type of Tirtha (e.g., Siddha Kshetra, Atishaya Kshetra), historical significance, and notable features.

6. Call for Preservation and Revival: The author laments the loss or obscurity of many ancient Tirthas due to various historical factors, including invasions and lack of proper maintenance. There's an earnest plea for the restoration and preservation of these historically and spiritually significant sites, encouraging modern Jains to undertake research and revival efforts. The need for establishing educational institutions and Jain libraries at Tirthas is also highlighted for propagating Jain teachings.

7. Appendices and Appendices: The book includes appendices with practical tips for pilgrims and a detailed listing of Jain temples and organizations in Delhi, showcasing their historical significance and contributions.

Conclusion:

"Jain Tirth aur Unki Yatra" is a comprehensive guide that not only informs about the geographical locations and historical importance of Jain Tirthas but also deeply emphasizes the philosophical underpinnings and spiritual benefits of undertaking pilgrimages. It serves as a testament to the rich heritage and continuous spiritual tradition of Jainism in India, urging readers to connect with their faith through the sacred journeys to these revered sites.