Sat Jain Tirth

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sat Jain Tirth" by Ganesh Lalwani, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Sat Jain Tirth (Seven Jain Pilgrimages) Author: Ganesh Lalwani Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Overall Theme: The book "Sat Jain Tirth" by Ganesh Lalwani serves as an introduction to seven significant Jain pilgrimage sites. The author aims to spark curiosity about these holy places in the general reader rather than providing exhaustive historical data. He emphasizes that a true pilgrimage involves spiritual expansion and overcoming personal limitations, drawing a parallel between physical pilgrimage sites and the spiritual guidance of Jain monks and nuns (Jangam Tirth). The book highlights that while many places are considered holy in Jainism due to the presence of temples, monasteries, or inscriptions, it focuses on seven specific sites that possess unique characteristics and importance.

Introduction to the Concept of Tirth (Pilgrimage Site): The author begins by defining a "tirth" as a place that leads to self-expansion and the expansion of thought. He states that gurus and acharyas are also considered "jangam tirth" (moving pilgrimages) because their proximity facilitates spiritual growth. However, he differentiates these from "sthavar tirth" (immovable pilgrimages), which are established after the physical departure of great souls. While the influence of monks and nuns is limited by time and place, certain Mahapurushas (great souls) like Rishabhdev, Parshva, and Mahavir transcend these boundaries. Their birthplaces, places of initiation, enlightenment, and nirvana become tirths for future generations, invigorating their teachings and helping devotees overcome their limitations. The book acknowledges that there are countless such holy places in India, making it impossible to cover all of them, and thus focuses on seven distinct and important ones.

The Seven Jain Tirths Covered:

1. Sammed Shikhar (Shikharji):

   • Significance: Considered a primary "Kalyan-Tirth" (auspicious pilgrimage site), it is the Nirvana-bhumi (place of liberation) for twenty out of the twenty-four Tirthankaras. This makes it exceptionally sacred, even more so than the birthplaces or nirvana sites of specific prominent Tirthankaras like Mahavir or Rishabhdev.
   • Ancient Name: It was historically known as Sammed Shikhar and is associated with the "Pareshnath Hill."
   • History: While the Tirthankaras who attained Nirvana here are from pre-historic times, the temples are not as ancient. The site was rediscovered later by matching scriptural clues. The path to Parshvanath's temple was only built in 1874, meaning fewer pilgrims visited before that, except for monks and ascetics.
   • Environment: The atmosphere is described as that of a "tapovan" (hermitage), resonating with divine consciousness.
   • Pilgrimage: The journey involves a significant trek (about 12 miles round trip to Parshvanath's temple, and more if visiting other peak temples), often starting very early in the morning. The path can be challenging, with rocky terrains. The environment is wild and natural, with a sense of primal forests.
   • Accessibility: Two main routes are described: from Nimiaghat and Madhuban. The Nimiaghat route is generally preferred for ascent.
   • Spiritual Experience: The author emphasizes the profound peace and spiritual energy felt at Sammed Shikhar, where the presence of Tirthankaras and monks can be sensed.

2. Delvada (Dilwara Temples):

   • Significance: Famous globally for its architectural marvels and exquisite artistry, it's a pilgrimage for artists and art connoisseurs as well as Jain pilgrims. It offers a stark contrast to the ancient sites like Sammed Shikhar, belonging to the early historical period.
   • Location: Situated on Mount Abu, it is a considerable distance from Sammed Shikhar.
   • History: While not as ancient as Sammed Shikhar, Jain ascetics resided here later. The temples were not built before the 10th century CE.
   • Architecture: The temples are renowned for their intricate marble carvings, described as so fine that they appear to be made of wax. The craftsmanship is compared to that of the Taj Mahal.
   • Key Temples: The most famous are the Vimal Vasahi temple (built in 1032 CE by Vimal Shah) dedicated to Adinath (Rishabhdev) and the Vastupal-Tejpal temple (built in 1232 CE) dedicated to Arishtanemi.
   • Artistic Detail: The ceiling of the Vimal Vasahi temple is described as a work of unparalleled beauty, adorned with depictions of Vidyadevis (goddesses of knowledge). The elephant stables are also notable for their lifelike marble elephants. The Vastupal-Tejpal temple, though similar in style, is considered to have even finer carvings.
   • Spiritual Aspect: The beauty and intricate details of the temples inspire a sense of wonder and awe, leading to a meditative and peaceful state.

3. Shatrunjaya:

   • Significance: Considered a "temple-city" and the glory of the East, it houses approximately 863 temples and thousands of idols. It's described as a dream city of white marble, serene and devoid of human habitation, inhabited only by the stone figures of Tirthankaras.
   • Location: Situated on a hill, like many other Jain pilgrimage sites, to escape earthly distractions and find mental peace.
   • Ancient History: Shatrunjaya is as ancient as Sammed Shikhar, predating it. Lord Rishabhdev visited and performed penance here multiple times. His chief disciple, Pundrik, attained Nirvana here. Numerous other monks and ascetics have also achieved liberation at Shatrunjaya, making every stone sacred.
   • Lord Rishabhdev: The book provides a brief biography of the first Tirthankara, Rishabhdev (also known as Adinath or Adishwar), the first propagator of the Dharma and the first organizer of society, agriculture, and commerce. His birth in Ayodhya and his lineage are described, linking him to the Bhagavad Purana's account of Rishabhdev.
   • Pilgrimage: Devotees flock here, especially during Kartika and Chaitra Purnima and Akshaya Tritiya, when fairs and festivals are held. The journey involves climbing a steep path of stairs.
   • Destruction and Restoration: Despite attacks and destruction, the temples have been rebuilt and maintained due to the intense devotion of Jain followers. The aspiration of every Jain is to build a temple or establish Tirthankara footprints here.
   • Temple Layout: The numerous temples are organized into "Tuks" (sections) named after prominent temples or individuals. Notable among these are the Adishwar temple, Kumar Pal temple, Vimal Shah temple, and the unique Choumukh temple, where four Tirthankara idols face the four directions.

4. Girnar:

   • Significance: A "Siddhabhumi" (land of liberation) and a "Kalyan-Tirth." It is the Nirvana-bhumi of the 22nd Tirthankara, Arishtanemi, who also attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) here through severe penance.
   • Lord Arishtanemi: The book discusses the historical context of Arishtanemi, mentioning his birth near Mathura, his lineage, and his relationship to Krishna. The narrative of his renunciation of marriage upon witnessing the suffering of animals destined for his wedding feast is a poignant highlight. This act of compassion and detachment is a central theme.
   • Spiritual Renunciation: Arishtanemi's decision to leave the wedding procession and embrace asceticism, followed by Rajimati's similar renunciation, is presented as a deeply moving event in Jain literature.
   • Location: Near Junagadh city, it is a significant pilgrimage site.
   • Historical Context: The area around Girnar has historical significance, with the Uparkot fort and Ashoka's edicts mentioned. The Damodar Kund, a sacred water body, is also noted.
   • Pilgrimage: The ascent to Girnar involves thousands of steps, with palanquins (dolis) available for those who cannot walk.
   • Temples: The main Jain temple dedicated to Arishtanemi is described, along with the temple built by Vastupal and Tejpal. Rajimati's cave, with her idol and Nemi's footprints, is also mentioned.
   • Other Sacred Sites: The book also touches upon the Ambika temple and Goraksh Shikhar, associated with the Nath sect, and the Datta Shikhar, considered a place of penance for Dattatreya and a believed Nirvana site for Nemi. Girnar is presented as a land of penance for saints and ascetics.

5. Shravan Belgola:

   • Significance: Renowned for the colossal statue of Gommateshwara (Bahubali), it is considered one of the wonders of the world due to its immense size (57 feet tall) and artistic excellence.
   • Gommateshwara vs. Bahubali: The statue is popularly known as Gommateshwara, likely named after its founder, Chamunda Raya. However, it represents Bahubali, the son of the first Tirthankara, Rishabhdev.
   • Bahubali's Story: The book narrates Bahubali's story: his rivalry with his brother Bharat for kingdom, his eventual renunciation of worldly pleasures after a duel with Bharat, and his intense penance. It highlights how his penance was hindered by pride (abhimaan) until he was reminded of his duty by his sisters, leading to his enlightenment.
   • The Statue: The statue of Bahubali is described as being carved from a single rock. The current statue was re-established by Chamunda Raya, inspired by a story of a previous statue.
   • Location and Scenery: Situated in Hassan district, it offers beautiful natural scenery between two hills, Chandragiri and Vindhyagiri. The white lake (Belgola) is also mentioned.
   • Pilgrimage: The statue is visible from a considerable distance. The annual Mahamastakabhishekam (consecration ceremony), held every twelve years, attracts vast numbers of Jain pilgrims.
   • Other Sites: Chandragiri houses numerous Jain temples and inscriptions, including the Chandragupta Vasti and Bhadrabahu's cave, where it is believed he attained Nirvana. There is a debate about the historicity of Bhadrabahu and Chandragupta. The Vindhyagiri hill has temples dedicated to Tirthankaras and is where the Gommateshwara statue is located.

6. Udayagiri-Khandagiri:

   • Significance: These caves are ancient Jain monasteries dating back to the 2nd or 1st century BCE, making them rare examples of early Jain architecture and monastic settlements. They are considered a significant contribution to Jain art and architecture.
   • Location: Situated in Odisha, near Bhubaneswar, they are part of a region known for its spiritual significance.
   • Historical Context: The region has a long association with Jainism, with King Kharavel of the Chedi dynasty being a prominent patron. The inscription in the Hathi Gumpha (Elephant Cave) details his reign, his military victories, and his significant contributions to Jainism, including the reconstruction of temples and the compilation of Jain scriptures.
   • Cave Architecture: The caves are described as being carved out of natural rock formations and adapted for monastic living. They showcase impressive architectural features and intricate carvings.
   • Notable Caves: Rani Gumpha (Queen's Cave) is the largest and most beautiful, with elaborate carvings depicting various scenes. Ganesh Gumpha, Jay-Vijay Gumpha, and Hathi Gumpha (famous for Kharavel's inscription) are also mentioned. Khandagiri hill has the Rishabhdev temple and other caves like Ananta Gumpha and Tatva Gumpha.
   • Spiritual Atmosphere: Although now largely uninhabited, the caves once resonated with the chants of Jain monks. The book evokes the feeling of this past spiritual activity.

7. Pawapuri:

   • Significance: This is the place where Lord Mahavir, the last Tirthankara, attained Nirvana (Maha-parinirvana). It is as sacred to Jains as Kushinagar is to Buddhists.
   • Lord Mahavir: The book provides a brief biography of Mahavir, his birth name Vardhamana, his childhood, his eventual renunciation of worldly life, and his twelve years of austere penance. It highlights his fearlessness and his attainment of Kevala Jnana.
   • Mahavir's Teachings: The narrative includes the story of his first sermon in Pawapuri and the conversion of Indrapriti Gautama and his disciples. It emphasizes the founding of the Chaturvidh Sangha (four-fold monastic order).
   • Mahavir's Nirvana: The book describes Mahavir's passing at the age of 72 in Pawapuri, and the tradition of lighting lamps on the night of his Nirvana (Deepavali), symbolizing the end of his light.
   • The Jal Mandir (Water Temple): This is the central pilgrimage site, located in a beautiful lake. It is said that the lake formed from the hole left by the collection of Mahavir's ashes. The marble-covered water temple appears ethereal, especially at night.
   • Other Sites: The Gau-Mandir, where Mahavir delivered his sermons, is also mentioned, along with its historical renovation.
   • Spiritual Experience: Pawapuri is described as a place of immense peace and sanctity, evoking deep devotion and reflection on Mahavir's life and teachings.

Conclusion: "Sat Jain Tirth" is an accessible and engaging introduction to some of the most significant Jain pilgrimage sites. Ganesh Lalwani's writing aims to inspire readers to explore these sacred places and delve deeper into the spiritual dimensions of Jainism. The book is richly illustrated with photographs of these sites, enhancing its appeal.