Sarv Tirtho Ki Vyavastha

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sarv Tirtho Ki Vyavastha" by Shitalprasad Chhajed, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Sarv Tirtho Ki Vyavastha (Arrangement/System of All Sacred Places) Author: Shitalprasad Chhajed Publisher: Shitalprasad Chhajed Publication Year: 1893 (as indicated by the date on page 1)

Overview:

"Sarv Tirtho Ki Vyavastha" is a significant Jain travelogue and guide, detailing numerous Jain pilgrimage sites (tirthas) across India. Published in 1893, it aims to provide comprehensive information and directions for Jain pilgrims, enabling them to visit and worship at these sacred locations. The book acts as a practical manual for navigating the vast Jain religious landscape, offering details on geography, transportation, lodging, and the historical and religious significance of each site.

Key Features and Content:

1. Detailed Itinerary and Directions: The core of the book is a systematically organized list of pilgrimage sites, presented as a travel itinerary. It starts from Calcutta and progresses through various regions of India, covering a vast geographical expanse. For each location, it provides:

   • Modes of Transport: Information on available transport, including rail, bullock carts, horse carriages, boats, and walking. It specifies distances in "kos" (a traditional unit of distance) and mentions rail lines, stations, and ticket costs (e.g., third-class rail fare).
   • Local Amenities: Details on the availability of lodging (Dharmashala - ध०), temples (Mandirji - मं०), markets (bazaar), and essential supplies.
   • Geographical Context: Descriptions of surrounding areas, including cities, villages, forests, mountains, and rivers.
   • Specific Temple Information: Mentions of the Tirthankara associated with a particular temple, the presence of their idol, and the availability of amenities like water.

2. Explanation of Symbols and Abbreviations: The book begins with a "Sanketik Suchipatra" (Symbolic Index) that clarifies the meaning of various abbreviations and symbols used throughout the text. These include:

   • "Bh." (भगवान - Bhagwan): Represents a Tirthankara. Numbers following it indicate the Tirthankara's order (e.g., 16th Tirthankara).
   • "Kaly." (कल्याणक - Kalyanak): Refers to the five auspicious events in a Tirthankara's life (birth, initiation, attainment of omniscience, divine preaching, and liberation). Numbers indicate the count of Kalyanakas that occurred at that specific site.
   • "Cha." (च्यवन - Chyavan): Birth ceremony.
   • "Ja." (जन्म - Janma): Birth.
   • "Di." (दीक्षा - Diksha): Initiation.
   • "Gya." (केवलज्ञान - Kevalgyan): Attainment of omniscience.
   • "Mo." (मोक्ष - Moksha): Liberation.
   • "Man." (मन्दिर - Mandir): Temple.
   • "Dha." (धर्माशाला - Dharmashala): Dharmashala (rest house).
   • "Ko." (कोस - Kos): Unit of distance.
   • "Rupaya Suka Ana Pai": Refers to rail fare.
   • "Junction": Indicates a railway junction.

3. Detailed Pilgrimage Routes: The book meticulously details routes connecting various tirthas. For instance, it describes journeys from Calcutta to Nalhati, then to Bhagalpur, Lachhuara, Kakandi, Madhupur, Greato, and Madhuvan, outlining the distances and modes of travel for each leg.

4. Historical and Religious Significance: While primarily a guide, it often touches upon the historical and religious significance of places. It mentions:

   • Tirthankara Associations: Which Tirthankaras were associated with a particular place and which Kalyanakas occurred there.
   • Miracles and Legends: Brief mentions of miracles and historical events related to the tirthas (e.g., the manifestation of idols from the earth, the history of ancient temples).
   • Renowned Figures: Mentions of acharyas, kings, and other significant individuals connected to the tirthas.

5. Condition of Tirthas (Jirnoddhar): The latter part of the book addresses the condition of certain tirthas, highlighting those that are dilapidated ("jirn") or have been lost ("vitcheda"). It laments the lack of upkeep by the Jain community for some ancient and significant sites and urges the Sangha (community) to undertake restoration efforts. This section emphasizes the importance of preserving these sacred places for future generations.

6. Geographical Scope: The book covers a remarkably wide range of Jain pilgrimage sites across what is now India, including major centers like:

   • Eastern India: Calcutta, Bhagalpur, Mithila (Sitamarhi), Pawapuri, Rajgir, Patna, Gaya.
   • Northern India: Mathura, Varanasi (Kashi), Ayodhya, Hastinapur, Delhi, Ajmer, Jaipur, Pushkar.
   • Western India: Palitana (Shatrunjaya), Girnar, Mount Abu, Kumbharia, Taranga, Ankleshwar, Surat, Dwarka, Ahmedabad.
   • Central India: Ujjain, Indore, Mandu, Nagpur, Akola.
   • Other Regions: Numerous smaller but significant tirthas are also documented.

7. Community Appeal and Call to Action: The author, Shitalprasad Chhajed, expresses his dedication to the Jain community and emphasizes that the book was published with their support for their benefit. He appeals to the community to actively participate in the upkeep and revival of dilapidated tirthas, highlighting the spiritual merit and importance of such actions.

Significance:

• Historical Document: "Sarv Tirtho Ki Vyavastha" is an invaluable historical document, providing a snapshot of Jain pilgrimage routes and practices in the late 19th century.
• Preservation of Knowledge: It serves as a crucial record of many tirthas, some of which may have changed significantly or faced neglect over time.
• Practical Guide: It was undoubtedly a highly practical guide for Jain pilgrims of that era, offering a clear and systematic approach to undertaking their spiritual journeys.
• Community Engagement: The book reflects a strong sense of community responsibility and a call for collective action in preserving religious heritage.

In essence, "Sarv Tirtho Ki Vyavastha" is a meticulously compiled directory and spiritual roadmap for Jain pilgrims, offering practical guidance, historical context, and an earnest plea for the preservation and revitalisation of sacred Jain sites across India.