Pratishtha Saroddhar - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Pratishtha Saroddhar" by Ashadhar Pandit, with a Hindi commentary by Manharlal Pandit, published by Jain Granth Uddharak Karyalay. The summary is based on the provided catalog link and the text content from the pages you've shared.

Title: Pratishtha Saroddhar (प्रतिष्ठासारोद्धार) Author: Ashadhar Pandit (आशाधर पंडित) Commentary (Hindi): Manharlal Shastri (मनोहरलाल शास्त्री) Publisher: Jain Granth Uddharak Karyalay (श्रीजैनग्रंथ-उद्धारक कार्यालय) Publication Year: Vikram Samvat 1974 (V.S. 1974)

Overall Purpose: The "Pratishtha Saroddhar" is a foundational Jain text that details the rituals and procedures for the consecration (Pratishtha) of Jain idols and temples. It aims to guide both the Yajman (the patron sponsoring the event) and the Pratishthacharya (the priest performing the consecration) to ensure the ritual is conducted correctly and yields its intended spiritual benefits. The commentary by Manharlal Shastri clarifies the complex Sanskrit text for a wider audience.

Key Themes and Sections:

The book systematically covers various aspects of Jain consecration, emphasizing the importance of proper understanding, conduct, and execution.

Introduction and Purpose (Prastavana - प्रस्तावना):
- The commentator, Manharlal Shastri, expresses his intention to present the "Pratishtha Saroddhar" with a Hindi commentary due to the strong desire of the Jain community.
- He highlights that the worship of Jinendra (Jain Tirthankaras) and the establishment of their idols and temples are primary duties of a householder.
- The text explains the rituals of Panchakalyanak (five auspicious events in the life of a Tirthankara) and other consecration procedures.
- It mentions the great rewards of Pratishtha, citing historical examples like King Bharat Chakravarthi who attained Moksha (liberation) through these rituals.
- The commentator laments the current state where patrons often lack knowledge about the fruits of Pratishtha and the proper behavior towards the priest, while priests sometimes act out of greed, leading to obstacles and the nullification of the ritual's benefits.
- The commentary aims to provide clarity on the requirements and proper conduct for both parties.
- It acknowledges Ashadhar Pandit as a great householder-acharya who expanded upon Vachundhi Acharya's "Pratishtha Sar Sangrah."
- The commentator notes the difficulty faced due to incomplete or inaccurate manuscripts.
Essential Rules for Mantra Sadhana (मंत्रसाधनके समय आवश्यक नियम):
- This section lists essential elements for mantra practice, categorized by types of rituals (Shanti, Paushtik, Vashikaran, Akarshan, Stambhan, Maran, Vidveshan, Uchchatan).
- It details specific requirements like mudras (hand gestures), asanas (postures), colors, directions, times of day, offerings, types of mantras, and materials (e.g., types of gems, wood).
Verse-based Instructions for Mantra Sadhana (मंत्रसाधनविधिके आवश्यक श्लोक):
- This section provides verses explaining various aspects of mantra practice, including:
  - The importance of understanding specific mudras, postures, colors, etc.
  - The significance of different mandalas (diagrams) used in rituals (e.g., Prithvi Mandal, Agneya Mandal, Marut Mandal).
  - The types of Kundas (fire pits) for different purposes.
  - The types and quantities of Samidha (fuel wood) for specific rituals.
  - The rules for Jap (chanting) and Homa (fire offerings).
  - The role of the Adhidevata (presiding deity) and their satisfaction.
  - The preparatory steps for a disciple before starting mantra practices.
  - The procedures for invocation, establishment, manifestation, and departure of deities.
  - The concept of Sakali Kriya (a protective ritual for the practitioner).
Pratishtha Saroddhar - Jinayajnakalpa (प्रतिष्ठासारोद्धार - जिनयज्ञकल्प):
- This is the core of the text, explaining the rituals of consecration.
- Chapter 1: Sutrasthapaniya (सूत्रस्थापनीय):
  - Defines "Jina" as those who have conquered enemies of karma. This includes the five Parmeshthis (Arhat, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyay, Sadhu) and the Angas of Jain scripture.
  - "Jinayajña" is the worship of Jinas, and "Kalpa" is the procedure. "Jinayajñakalpa" is the text detailing these procedures.
  - Discusses different types of Yajna: Nityamah, Chaturmukh, Rathavarta, Kalpavriksha, Indradhvaja.
  - Explains Nityamah as the ritual performed by bringing offerings from home to the temple.
  - Emphasizes the importance of establishing temples and renovating old ones.
  - Cites historical figures like Bharat, Sagar, and Rama who achieved liberation through these rituals.
  - Details the importance of auspicious timing (Panchanga Shuddhi) and seeking advice from elders and ministers.
  - Explains the process of site selection for temples, including purifying the land and filling foundations.
  - Describes the construction of mandalas (geometric diagrams) for rituals, including specific mantras and deities to be invoked in different sections.
  - Covers the consecration of the Vedi (altar), including the placement of various materials and the worship of deities.
  - Explains the ritual of "Purush Praveshan" (entering a symbolic human figure) for the well-being of artisans involved in construction.
  - Details the process of selecting the right stone for idols.
  - Explains the ritual of anointing and meditating on mantras.
  - Describes the process of bringing the selected stone to the temple.
  - Outlines the consecration of the idol itself, including the crafting process and the placement on the seat.
  - Discusses the iconography of Tirthankaras and their respective symbols.
  - Explains the qualifications and procedures for consecrating idols of Siddhas and Acharyas.
  - Details the importance of the Pratishthacharya (consecrator) and the qualifications required (knowledge, conduct, auspicious signs).
  - Describes the role of the Yajman (patron) and the Diksha Guru (initiating teacher).
  - Outlines the grand procession (Indra Pratishtha) for the consecration, including the rituals performed by the Indra and the Yajman.
  - Explains the preparations for the festival, including the construction of the Mandapa (canopy) and Vedi.
  - Covers the rituals of water procession (Jal Yatra), purification, and the consecration of the main ritual area.
- Chapter 2: Tirthodaka Adan Vidhan (तीर्थोदकादानविधान):
  - Details the rituals for bringing sacred water from Tirthas (holy places or reservoirs) for Abhishek (ritual bathing) of the idols.
  - Explains the preparation of the site, the mandalas, and the specific mantras and offerings for invoking water deities and Tirthankaras.
  - Covers the worship of various deities associated with water and the environment.
  - Describes the process of filling sacred pots and bringing them to the temple with reverence and celebration.
- Chapter 3: Yagamandala Puja Vidhan (यागमंडलपूजाविधान):
  - Focuses on the detailed worship within the Yagamandala (sacrificial altar/diagram).
  - Explains the procedures for consecrating the main deity (Arhat) and other associated deities like the Panch Parmeshthis, Vidyadevis, Shashan Devtas, Lokpalas, Navagrahas, and Vastu Devtas.
  - Provides specific mantras, offerings, and procedures for each deity.
  - Emphasizes the purity and auspiciousness required at every step.
- Chapter 4: Jin Pratishtha Vidhan (जिनप्रतिष्ठाविधान):
  - Details the consecration of the Jin idols themselves.
  - Covers the process of Sakali Karan (purification and protection rituals), mantra nyasa (placement of mantras on the body), and Tilak Dan (applying tilak).
  - Explains the rituals for the five Kalyanaks (Garbhavataran, Janma, Diksha, Keval Gyan, Nirvana) and how they are symbolically represented in the consecration.
  - Describes the procedures for Abhishek (ritual bathing) using various sacred substances.
  - Covers the adorning of the idol with divine garments, ornaments, and the eight principal attributes (Pratiharayas).
  - Explains the establishment of the throne, symbols, protective deities (Yaksha, Yakshini), and guardian deities.
  - Discusses the importance of the Pratishthacharya's conduct and the meticulous execution of rituals.
- Chapter 5: Abhishekadi Vidhan (अभिषेकादिविधान):
  - This chapter likely focuses on the culmination of the Pratishtha, detailing the final Abhishek ceremonies and the significance of various offerings.
  - It covers the rituals for the "Chal" (movable) and "Sthira" (immovable) idols.
  - It includes rituals for the consecration of the Yagamandala and the final departure of deities.
  - It emphasizes the importance of peace and well-being for all beings and the propagation of Jain Dharma.
  - It reiterates the importance of correct procedure and the blessings received through these rituals.
- Chapter 6: Siddha Pratima Adi Pratishtha Vidhan (सिद्धप्रतिमादिप्रतिष्ठाविधान):
  - This section details the consecration rituals for idols of Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, Sadhus, and other revered beings or symbols like the Siddha Chakra.
  - It outlines the specific procedures, mantras, and offerings relevant to each.
- Prashasti (प्रशस्ति - Eulogy of the Author):
  - This section provides praise for Ashadhar Pandit, highlighting his lineage, intelligence, literary contributions (including other works like Dharmamrit), and his devotion to Jainism.
  - It mentions patrons and rulers who supported his work.
  - It concludes with blessings and wishes for the propagation of the text and the Jain teachings.

Key Concepts:

Pratishtha: The core concept, referring to the consecration and installation of Jain deities and temples, imbuing them with divine presence and efficacy.
Yajman: The layperson who sponsors and financially supports the Pratishtha ceremony.
Pratishthacharya: The Jain priest who expertly performs the rituals.
Mantra: Sacred syllables and verses used in rituals for invoking deities and achieving specific spiritual or worldly aims.
Yantra/Mandala: Geometric diagrams used as focal points in rituals, representing cosmic energies and deities.
Abhishek: Ritual bathing of the idol with sacred substances.
Panchakalyanak: The five auspicious events in the life of a Tirthankara, often symbolically represented in consecrations.
Ashadhar Pandit: A highly respected Jain Acharya and scholar known for his extensive contributions to Jain literature.
Dharma: Jain principles, practices, and the path of liberation.
Moksha: Liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Significance: "Pratishtha Saroddhar" is a vital text for understanding the intricate and spiritually significant rituals of Jain consecration. It serves as a comprehensive guide, ensuring that these sacred ceremonies are performed with the utmost devotion, precision, and adherence to tradition, thereby fostering spiritual growth and upholding the Jain faith. The Hindi commentary makes this invaluable knowledge accessible to a broader audience.