Jambu Jinalay Shuddhikaran - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jambu Jinalay Shuddhikaran" by Bhushan Shah, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Jambu Jinalay Shuddhikaran (Purification of Jain Temples) Author: Bhushan Shah Publisher: Chandrodaya Charities

Core Theme: The book is a comprehensive guide and reflection on the importance of maintaining and purifying Jain temples, with a particular focus on the practical aspects of temple upkeep and the spiritual significance of devotional practices. It emphasizes the duty of the Jain community to preserve their sacred spaces and the profound benefits derived from such endeavors.

Key Sections and Their Content:

Introduction (પ્રસ્તાવના): The introduction sets a tone of deep reverence and devotion, highlighting the emotional connection Jains have with their temples. It introduces the concept of "dassyaham" (I am your servant) and the desire for self-purification through temple purification, leading to the ultimate goal of liberation (moksha). It commends the author's efforts in reviving temples and earning virtuous merit.
From the Editor's Pen (સંપાદકની કલમેથી): This section discusses the significance of the divine essence within temples, comparing them to wish-fulfilling jewels. It laments the neglect of ancient temples across various Jain pilgrimage sites due to a lack of caretakers and the impact of historical events. The editor expresses concern about the current state of many temples, even in major Jain centers, and the need to preserve this ancestral heritage. The inspiration for the book stemmed from a visit to temples in Ahmedabad and a desire to address the issues of their upkeep. The editor also acknowledges the contributions of various spiritual leaders and individuals in the creation of the book.
Life of Great Souls (મહાપુરૂષનું જીવન દર્શન): This extensive section (Pages 18-28) is a detailed biographical tribute to Muniraj Shri Jambuvijayji Maharaj. It covers his birth, early life, initiation into Jain monasticism at a young age, his rigorous education, and his intellectual prowess. The text highlights his deep scholarship, his service to his gurus, and the numerous virtues he embodied, drawing parallels to great Jain Acharyas of the past. It details his significant contributions to Jainism, including his work on ancient scriptures, his role in rescuing numerous animals, his tireless efforts in renovating and preserving Jain knowledge repositories, his widespread influence, and his unwavering commitment to Jain principles. The section also touches upon the author's personal connection and reverence for Maharajshri.
Statement (નિવેદન): This section emphasizes the magnificence of Jain temples and the sacred idols within them. It stresses the need for meticulous care in all aspects of temple management, including daily rituals, special observances, and the overall administration. It positions the book as essential reading for every Jain devotee seeking to understand and participate in these practices.
Devotion to the Lord (પ્રભુ ભક્તિ): This section outlines the nine types of devotional practices in Jainism: listening to sermons, chanting and praising, remembering, bowing, serving the feet, worshiping, servitude, friendship, and self-surrender. It briefly explains each type.
Come... Let's purify the soul by purifying the temple (પધારો... જિનાલય શુદ્ધિકરણ કરી આત્માનું શુદ્ધિકરણ કરીએ): This section draws a parallel between Lord Mahavira and a wish-fulfilling divine tree (kalpavruksha). It explains that sincere devotion through darshan (seeing the deity), vandana (bowing), and puja (worship) leads to the removal of sins, fulfillment of desires, and acquisition of wealth (both spiritual and material). It highlights the importance of proper temple management, dividing responsibilities among trustees, priests, and devotees to ensure the temple functions smoothly and contributes to spiritual upliftment. It stresses the need for systematic planning in temple construction and restoration.
How will a Jain temple be recognized in the future? (ભવિષ્યમાં જેનોનું મંદિર શી રીતે ખ્યાલ આવશે.): This section discusses the potential for temples to lose their distinct identity over centuries due to the similarity in architectural styles across religions. It suggests ways to preserve the Jain identity of temples for posterity, such as inscribing historical details on copper plates during construction or installation of idols, and incorporating unique Jain symbols like the 14 auspicious dreams, Ashtamangals, Ashtapratyahaaryas, and the symbols of the Tirthankaras.
An Important Aspect of Temple Purification (જિનાલય શુદ્ધિકરણનું મહત્ત્વનું અંગ): This section focuses on the procedural aspects of 18 Abhisheks (ritualistic bathing of idols) and vilipana (anointing with pastes). It categorizes 18 Abhisheks into three types: Shantik (for peace and protection), Paushtik (for prosperity and well-being), and Vishisht (for removing idol-related transgressions and enhancing the idol's divine energy). It emphasizes the forgotten practice of vilipana as crucial for amplifying the idol's positive energy and its importance in achieving the desired spiritual benefits.
Sculpture and Rituals Related to 21 Points (શિલ્પશાસ્ત્ર અને વિધિ વિધાન સંબંધી ૨૧ મુદ્દા): This section delves into various architectural and ritualistic considerations for temple construction and maintenance. It covers aspects like choosing the right land, adhering to temple blueprints, proper foundation laying, using appropriate materials like marble and copper, the significance of symbols, the placement of idols, the importance of clean and well-maintained facilities, and the roles of various stakeholders. It also includes practical advice on materials, construction processes, and the importance of documentation.
My Opinion (મારો અભિપ્રાય): This section offers the author's perspective on increasing temple revenue, the proper utilization of funds, the importance of skilled and virtuous monks and nuns, and the need for organized efforts within the Jain community to promote Jainism and protect its heritage. It emphasizes the need for delegation of responsibilities and the collective participation of the community in temple-related activities.
Special Points (વિશેષ-૧, વિશેષ-૨, વિશેષ-૩, વિશેષ-૪): These sections provide specific guidance on various aspects of temple care and practice:
- Special 1 (તાંબુ-પિત્તળ કે જર્મનસીલ્વર - Copper-Brass or German Silver): Advocates for the use of pure copper and brass for temple utensils over German silver, citing its negative vibrational properties and cost-effectiveness.
- Special 2 (ત્રિગડામાં જિનપ્રતિમા નીચે શું મૂકશો? - What to place under the idol in the Trivet?): Recommends placing silver or copper coins/ingots under idols during Snātra rituals, rather than modern currency, due to the negative energies associated with current coinage.
- Special 3 (મોરપીંછ - Peacock Feathers): Highlights the traditional and beneficial use of peacock feathers for cleaning temple premises, citing their positive energy, ability to ward off insects, and role in maintaining the temple's vibrational purity.
- Special 4 (લિપિ અને આપણે - Scripts and Us): Discusses the historical significance of various ancient Indian scripts, particularly Brahmi, and its connection to Jainism, suggesting the need for further research into the various scripts found on ancient temple inscriptions.
Closing Remarks (અંતે અંતરની વાત): The author urges the Jain community to diversify their pilgrimage visits, explore different temples, and engage in community activities at various sacred sites. They also emphasize the need to support and revitalize older, neglected temples alongside the development of new ones.
Information related to Jain Temples (જિનાલય સંબંધી વિશિષ્ટ માહિતી): This section provides a detailed questionnaire or checklist for gathering comprehensive information about Jain temples, including details about the idols, architectural features, historical significance, administrative details, and community involvement.

Overall Message:

"Jambu Jinalay Shuddhikaran" is a comprehensive and devotional guide that aims to reawaken the Jain community's sense of responsibility towards their temples. It blends spiritual teachings with practical advice, encouraging a deeper understanding and active participation in temple upkeep, worship, and preservation. The book serves as a call to action, urging Jains to honor their heritage, maintain the sanctity of their sacred spaces, and contribute to the continuous flourishing of Jainism through diligent devotion and meticulous care. It also pays a profound tribute to the exemplary life and teachings of Muniraj Shri Jambuvijayji Maharaj.