Jain Tirthmala

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Tirthmala" by Jain Sasti Vanchanmala, based on the provided pages:

Overall Purpose and Content:

"Jain Tirthmala" (meaning "Garland of Jain Pilgrimage Sites") is a comprehensive guide detailing numerous Jain pilgrimage sites, primarily in India. The book aims to inform readers about these sacred locations, their history, religious significance, and important temples. It serves as a valuable resource for Jains interested in undertaking pilgrimages or learning about the geography and history of Jainism.

Key Aspects Covered:

• Extensive Listing of Tirthas (Pilgrimage Sites): The book provides an extensive list of pilgrimage sites, meticulously numbered and described. The index alone spans numerous pages, covering a vast geographical area.
• Geographical Scope: The Tirthmala covers sites across various regions of India, including Gujarat, Kathiawar, Marwar, Rajputana, and even mentions places in Hindustan and potentially further afield.
• Detailed Descriptions of Sites: For each Tirth, the book provides historical context, details about prominent temples and deities (especially Tirthankaras like Rishabhdev, Parshvanath, Mahavir Swami, Neminath, Shantinath, etc.), architectural descriptions, and information about any unique features or miracles associated with the site.
• Historical and Religious Significance: The text often delves into the historical background of the sites, mentioning ancient rulers, dynasties, historical events, and the contributions of important Jain acharyas and patrons in the construction or renovation of temples.
• Biographical Information: Brief mentions of notable Jain figures, patrons, and scholars are included, often in the context of their association with specific pilgrimage sites or the publication of religious texts.
• Practical Travel Information: Some entries include details about accessibility, nearby railway stations, available accommodation (like Dharmashalas), and local governance or administration.
• Praise for Virtuous Individuals: The preface and dedication sections highlight specific individuals for their piety, religious dedication, and support of Jainism, often linking them to the publication of the book or specific temples.
• Promotional Content for Jain Literature: The latter pages of the provided text include advertisements for other Jain books published by "Jain Sasti Vanchanmala," including historical accounts, biographies, and devotional texts, often at discounted prices. They also promote their subscription service for receiving Jain literature annually.
• Devotional Content: The book begins with a devotional song (Garba) dedicated to the 24 Tirthankaras, setting a spiritual tone.

Specific Examples of Sites and Themes:

• Major Jain Centers: Mumbai, Surat, Ahmedabad, Patan, Palitana (Shatrunjaya), Girnar, Mount Abu (Delvada), Mathura, Hastinapur, Pawapuri, and Kashi are prominently featured, with detailed descriptions.
• Architectural Marvels: The book highlights significant temples, such as the intricately carved marble temples of Delvada (Mount Abu) and the unique construction of the Ranpur temple with its numerous pillars.
• Miraculous and Ancient Idols: Many descriptions emphasize the miraculous nature of the idols, their ancient origins (sometimes linked to Samprati Raja or earlier periods), and how they were discovered or appeared.
• Historical Figures: Rulers like Kumarpal, Siddharaj, and ministers like Vimal and Tejpal are frequently mentioned for their patronage of Jainism and the construction of temples.
• Geographical and Cosmological Descriptions: Some sections touch upon Jain cosmology, describing different islands, mountains, and the concept of lokapalas, as well as the stages of time in Jainism.
• Importance of Pilgrimage: The overall narrative underscores the spiritual merit and importance of visiting these Tirthas for Jains.

Publisher and Context:

The publisher, "Jain Sasti Vanchanmala" from Bhavnagar, appears to be a significant entity dedicated to disseminating Jain religious and historical literature. The catalog link provided suggests a broader collection of Jain works available through them. The publication dates (Vir Samvat 2456, Vikram Samvat 1986) indicate it's a work from the early 20th century.

In essence, "Jain Tirthmala" is a comprehensive repository of Jain pilgrimage sites, rich in historical detail, religious narratives, and architectural information, aiming to guide and inspire Jain devotees on their spiritual journeys.