Jiravala Parshwanath Tirth Ka Itihas

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jiravala Parshwanath Tirth Ka Itihas" by Bhushan Shah, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Jiravala Parshwanath Tirth Ka Itihas (The History of Jiravala Parshwanath Tirth) Author/Editor: Bhushan Shah Publisher: Mission Jainatva Jagaran Guidance: Dr. Pritam Singhvi Inspiration/Blessings: P.P. Gurudev Shri Jambuvijayji Maharaj

Overall Purpose: This book is dedicated to chronicling the rich and ancient history of the Jiravala Parshwanath Tirth (holy place). It aims to highlight the significance of this tirth within Jainism, its historical journey, the glory of Lord Parshwanath associated with it, and the contributions of various saints, scholars, and devotees in its preservation and revival. The book emphasizes the importance of historical knowledge for understanding the true greatness of a tirth.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Significance of Tirths in Jainism:

   • The book begins by defining "Tirth" in Jainism not just as a physical holy site but as the path of Dharma (righteousness) itself.
   • Tirthankaras are considered the founders of this Dharma-Tirth.
   • The ultimate Tirth is spiritual, leading one across the ocean of worldly existence to liberation (moksha), achieved through knowledge, perception, and conduct.
   • It differentiates between "Dravya Tirth" (physical manifestations like temples, holy sites) and "Bhava Tirth" (the spiritual path and the community of seekers).
   • A distinction is made between Hindu and Jain concepts of tirths, where Hindu tirths are often seen as inherently sacred, while Jain tirths derive their sanctity from their association with Tirthankaras and ascetics.

2. The Ancient History and Glory of Jiravala Tirth:

   • Jiravala Tirth is described as a very ancient and glorious site nestled in the Aravalli mountain range on the Jirapalli hill.
   • It has served as a refuge for saints and devout individuals and a center for Jain culture and religion for centuries.
   • The temple's inscriptions and architecture speak to its antiquity.
   • The holy mantra "Om Hreem Shreem Shri Jiravala Parshwanath Raksha Kuru Kuru Swaha" is still used at the beginning of auspicious ceremonies related to the tirth.
   • The tirth's fame has led to the establishment of Lord Jiravala Parshwanath's idols in various locations like Ghanerao, Nadlai, Kutch, Nadol, Sirohi, and Ghatkopar (Mumbai).
   • Various ancient names for the tirth are mentioned, including Jiravalli, Jirapalli, Jirikapalli, and Jayarajapalli, with the name likely originating from the mountain "Jayaraj."

3. Chronological and Historical Details:

   • Early Associations: The area was part of the Maurya Empire, under Emperor Samprati, during which Jainism flourished. Inscriptions from the 2nd century CE suggest the presence of Jainism even before Samprati.
   • Construction and Early Renovations: The Jiravala Parshwanath temple is said to have been built in 326 CE by a Seth from Kodinagar. A major renovation occurred in 663 CE by Seth Jetasa Khemasa under the guidance of Acharya Merusurishwarji.
   • Dynastic Rule: The region was ruled by various dynasties, including the Chahamanas (Chauhans), Parmars, Chalukyas, and ultimately fell under the influence of Delhi Sultanate rulers like Alauddin Khilji.
   • Attacks and Defilement: The temple faced attacks, notably from Alauddin Khilji's forces, who attempted to defile it with animal sacrifice and blood. Miraculously, those who attempted to desecrate the idol reportedly met with swift death.
   • Temple Structure and Inscriptions: The ancient temple complex comprised 54 "dehris" (small shrines). Several inscriptions dating from the 8th to the 15th century CE are mentioned, detailing renovations, donations, and the presence of various Acharyas. The book details the idols found in many of these dehris, many of which are of Lord Parshwanath from different origins, reflecting the tirth's historical importance.
   • Idol History:
     • A belief exists that the original idol of Jiravala Parshwanath was in Jagannathpuri.
     • Between the 15th and 17th centuries, due to attacks, Lord Mahavirswami and then Lord Neminath were the principal deities.
     • In 2020 (Samvat), a new idol of Lord Jiravala Parshwanath brought from Malwa was installed, consecrated by Acharya Himatsurishwarji and Tilokvijayji Maharaj.
     • The existing idols were previously in a cave and were reinstalled after a proper "punah pratishtha" (re-consecration).
   • Merutunga Suri and Jirapalli Stotra: Acharya Merutunga Suri, a prominent scholar, is linked to the tirth and is credited with composing the "Jirapalli Parshwanath Stotra." The book mentions a legend about his disciples receiving divine "gutikas" (pills) for protection.
   • Impact of Scholars: The tirth was visited and revered by many prominent Jain Acharyas throughout history, including Devsuriji, Merusurishwarji, Udyotan Suri, Haribhadra Suri, Jinadatta Suri, Jinachandra Suri, Merutung Suri, and Hemchandracharya, who often conducted renovations and preached there.

4. Notable Legends and Historical Events:

   • Divine Discovery: A key legend describes the discovery of Lord Parshwanath's idol by Seth Amrasa of Kodinagar, who received a divine dream. The idol was found in a cave and, after a dispute between Kodinagar and Jirapalli, was established in Jirapalli in 331 CE by Acharya Devsuriji.
   • Theft and Divine Intervention: A story recounts 50 robbers entering the temple at night, being blinded by divine power, and sustaining head injuries from hitting stones while trying to escape.
   • Emperor's Wrath: A legend describes a wealthy merchant, Meghasa, who was blessed by Lord Jiravala Parshwanath to escape a powerful ruler's wrath.
   • Miraculous Events: Several anecdotes highlight the miraculous powers of Lord Parshwanath, such as snakes' venom turning to nectar, answered prayers, and divine guidance received in dreams.

5. Literary and Scholarly Contributions:

   • Numerous ancient stotras (hymns) and literary works by esteemed scholars mention and praise Jiravala Tirth and Lord Parshwanath, attesting to its significance. These include works by Sohaubhagymurti Ji, Lakshmisagar Suri, Udayadharmagani, Siddhanta Ruchiji, Mahendra Suri, Jinaprabh Suri, Jayasingh Suri, Jayasekhar Suri, Manikyasundar Suri, Hirananad Suri, Munisundar Suri, Meghavijayji, Gyansagarji, Gyana Vimalji, and Dip Vijayji.
   • The "Updesh Saptati" by Pandit Somdharma Gani (1503 CE) provides a detailed account of the tirth's origin and legends.

6. The Jirapalli Gachha:

   • The tirth's importance led to the formation of a specific Jain sect known as the "Jirapalli Gachha."
   • The book mentions prominent Acharyas of this Gachha like Ramachandra Suri, Shalibhadra Suri, Udayaratna Suri, and Veerabhadra Suri, whose contributions are documented through inscriptions and temple establishments.

7. Preservation of History:

   • The book expresses concern over the loss of ancient inscriptions and murals due to renovations and neglect.
   • It stresses the duty of preserving historical artifacts and ensuring that future renovations are conducted with care for the tirth's antiquity.

Conclusion: "Jiravala Parshwanath Tirth Ka Itihas" serves as a vital record of a significant Jain holy place. It underscores the spiritual, historical, and cultural importance of Jiravala, highlighting the enduring faith and efforts of countless individuals who have contributed to its legacy. The book is a testament to the power of devotion, the richness of Jain tradition, and the importance of historical preservation.