Shatrunjay Mahatirthadi Yatra Vichar

The Jain text "Shatrunjay Mahatirthadi Yatra Vichar" (Thoughts on the Pilgrimage to Shatrunjay and Other Sacred Sites), published by Jain Sasti Vanchanmala in Bhavnagar, is a comprehensive guide and devotional compilation intended for Jain pilgrims. The book is structured to provide guidance, prayers, and historical context for visiting sacred Jain sites, with a particular focus on Shatrunjay, one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in Jainism.

Here's a breakdown of the content based on the provided pages:

Core Purpose and Content:

• Pilgrimage Guide: The primary aim of the book is to facilitate and enrich the experience of pilgrims undertaking the yatra (pilgrimage). It offers practical advice, spiritual insights, and devotional materials.
• Devotional Material: The text includes a rich collection of Jain prayers, hymns, and praises (Stavan, Stuti, Vandana) specifically related to Shatrunjay and other significant tirthas (sacred sites). This includes:
  • Chaitya Vandan: Rituals performed in temples.
  • Stavan/Stuti: Devotional songs and praises.
  • Specific Works: Mentions of "Dhanpal Panchashika," "Mahadev Stotra," and "Shri Shatrunjay Mahatirthodana pa" (likely a specific ritual or text related to Shatrunjay).
• Spiritual and Philosophical Teachings: The book delves into core Jain principles, such as the importance of faith in the Jin (Tirthankaras), gurus, and dharma. It discusses the path to eternal bliss (moksha) and emphasizes the significance of inner devotion (bhava) over mere outward rituals.
• Historical and Mythological Context: It provides narratives and details about the sacred sites, including the history of Shatrunjay, the significance of various locations within the pilgrimage route, and the lives of virtuous individuals associated with these sites.

Key Sections and Themes:

1. Introduction and Dedication:

   • The book is published by "Jain Sasti Vanchanmala, Bhavnagar."
   • It acknowledges the guidance and suggestions of Shri Kapurvijayji Maharajshri, highlighting his role in making the book useful for pilgrims.
   • A special mention and gratitude are extended to Seth Jesinghbhai Sakalchand from Samau village, who sponsored 500 copies in memory of his deceased daughter, Kamalaben.

2. Biography of Kamalaben:

   • A brief life sketch of Kamalaben is presented, portraying her as a virtuous young girl who led a life of devotion.
   • She was born in Samau village in VS 1972 (1915 CE).
   • She exhibited qualities like humility, simplicity, truthfulness, purity, honesty, generosity, and a joyful nature.
   • Her devotion to the Jin (Tirthankaras) and Gurus was exceptional. She would not eat without seeing the Jin (idol) and expressed her faith during her final moments.
   • She had a special reverence for Muniraj Shri Kapurvijayji.
   • Kamalaben had undertaken pilgrimages to major sites like Shatrunjay, Girnar, Taranga, Sankheshwar, Kesariyaji, Pansar, and Bhoyani.
   • Sadly, she passed away at the age of ten in VS 1982 (1925 CE) due to a fever.

3. Table of Contents (Anukramanika):

   • The extensive table of contents reveals the book's depth and breadth, covering numerous topics related to pilgrimage and Jain philosophy. Some key items include:
     • Shri Parshwajin Stavan: Hymn to Lord Parshvanath.
     • Shatrunjay Mahatirtha Yatra Vichar (Introduction): Discussing the significance of the Navpad (nine supreme entities in Jainism) in the context of the Shatrunjay pilgrimage.
     • Guidance for Pilgrims: Ethical principles and advice for visiting tirthas.
     • Path to Moksha: The true means to achieve eternal liberation.
     • Meaning of 'Tirth' and Duty: Explaining the concept of sacred sites and pilgrim responsibilities.
     • Devotion to God, Guru, and Dharma: The importance of unwavering faith.
     • Names of Shatrunjay: 21 auspicious names of Shatrunjay, incorporated into Chaitya Vandan.
     • Shri Siddhagiri Stuti: Praises of Siddhagiri (Shatrunjay).
     • Rituals and Glorification: Detailed procedures for worship and glorification of Shatrunjay, including 21 Khama-samana dos (a type of prayer).
     • Mahatmya (Glory) of Shatrunjay: Various aspects of its greatness, including legends, the arrival of Tirthankaras, and the conduct of Sanghapati (leader of the pilgrimage).
     • Rules and Observances: Specific guidelines for pilgrims during the journey.
     • Important Instructions: Advice for travelers.
     • Achieving Global Renown: How to become worthy of universal respect.
     • Jain Aspirations: Important instructions for true welfare.
     • Legends: Stories of King Kandu and others who attained liberation through Shatrunjay.
     • Mahatmas and Miracles: Short notes on Siddhas and significant events.
     • Important Dates: Auspicious days for pilgrimage.
     • Sacred Objects and Places: Details about places like Rayan Vriksha (Rayan tree), Shatrunjay River, Surya Kund, etc.
     • Other Sacred Sites: Mentions of Taladhvajgiri, Mahuva, Girnar, Prabhaspatan, Ajara Parshwanath, Abu, Taranga, Anahilpur Patan, etc.
     • Panchashika: Works by Dhanpal Kavi.
     • Navpad Aradhana: Worship of the nine supreme entities.
     • Kālpas: Ritual texts for various tirthas (Shatrunjay, Girnar, Ashtapad, Sametshikhar).
     • Stotras: Mahadev Stotra by Hemchandracharya.
     • Collections: Extensive collections of Chaitya Vandan (28) and Stavan (50).

4. Philosophical Discourse:

   • Introduction to Shatrunjay Yatra Vichar: Emphasizes the importance of the Navpad (Arhant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu, Darshan, Gyan, Charitra, Tap) as the primary means for spiritual progress. It highlights that while the Navpad comprises both spiritual beings (Dharmis) and the path itself (Dharma), true spiritual attainment comes from the practice of Darshan (right faith), Gyan (right knowledge), Charitra (right conduct), and Tap (austerity).
   • The Importance of Bhava (Inner Feeling): The text stresses that religious actions are only fruitful when performed with sincere devotion and inner feeling.
   • The True Means to Moksha: The book reiterates the Jain principle that the "Ratnatrayi" (three jewels: Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct) is the true and infallible path to liberation.
   • The Role of Tirthas: Shatrunjay and other tirthas are presented as essential aids to traverse the path of Ratnatrayi and strengthen one's resolve.
   • Adherence to Rules: It strongly advises pilgrims to follow the prescribed rituals and regulations (vidhi) during their pilgrimage to avoid any "avdhi dosh" (infractions).
   • Analogy of a Farmer: The text uses the analogy of a diligent farmer who cultivates his field carefully to reap a good harvest, implying that similar diligence is needed in religious practices for maximum benefit.
   • Ethical Conduct: It lists ten essential principles (dashatrika) to be observed during darshan (worship), including the correct pronunciation of "nisih," circumambulations, prostrations, types of puja, awareness of the Lord's states, controlling one's gaze, respecting the ground, reciting mantras correctly, and maintaining concentration.
   • Pilgrimage Etiquette: Detailed instructions are given on entry into sacred places (five abhigams), proper behavior within temples (avoiding state symbols like umbrellas, fans, crowns, swords, footwear), respectful departure (not turning one's back), and performing worship with bare feet.
   • The Power of Tirths: The glory of Shatrunjay is extensively described, suggesting that actions performed there yield immense merit, far exceeding those done elsewhere. Fasting, meditation, and devotion at Shatrunjay are highlighted for their transformative power.
   • Examples of Virtuous Lives: The text includes stories of individuals like King Kandu, King Jitari, King Shantanu, and Prince Mahipal, whose lives were transformed by their devotion to Shatrunjay and its sacred waters.
   • Shatrunjay Mahatmya: The text refers to the extensive glory of Shatrunjay as detailed in ancient texts and the importance of understanding and following the teachings of the tirthankaras.
   • Kandh Raja's Story: This legend illustrates how even a greatly sinful person can attain salvation through sincere devotion and pilgrimage to Shatrunjay.
   • Living a Virtuous Life: The book encourages pilgrims to shed worldly attachments, embrace austerity, and seek spiritual upliftment under the guidance of gurus.
   • The Ultimate Goal: The ultimate aim is stated to be the attainment of eternal bliss (moksha) through the diligent practice of Dharma.

5. Detailed Descriptions of Tirthas:

   • Shatrunjay: Elaborate details are provided about its history, names (21 mentioned, with others listed), dimensions, significance of its locations (like Rayan Vriksha, Surya Kund), and the immense spiritual benefits of visiting.
   • Other Tirthas: The text also briefly describes the significance of other sacred sites like Taladhvajgiri, Mahuva, Girnar, Prabhaspatan, Ajara Parshwanath, Abu, Taranga, and Anahilpur Patan.

6. Praise Collections:

   • Navapada Puja: A detailed 108-verse composition on the glory of the Navpad, followed by 21 verses of 'Khama-samana' (a prayer of apology/request) linked to the 21 names of Shatrunjay.
   • Shatrunjay Mahatmya Kalpa & Laghu Kalpa: Sections describing the detailed procedures and glories of the pilgrimage.
   • Ashtapad, Girnar, Sametshikhar Kalpas: Ritual texts for these other significant tirthas.
   • Mahadev Stotra by Hemchandracharya: A renowned devotional hymn.
   • Extensive Stavan Collections: A vast array of devotional songs and prayers dedicated to various Tirthankaras and sacred sites.

Overall Significance:

"Shatrunjay Mahatirthadi Yatra Vichar" serves as a valuable resource for Jain pilgrims, offering a blend of practical guidance, deep spiritual teachings, and devotional expressions. It aims to inspire and equip individuals for a meaningful and spiritually rewarding pilgrimage, emphasizing the transformative power of devotion and adherence to Jain principles. The inclusion of the biography of Kamalaben adds a personal touch, highlighting the virtues that the book seeks to inspire.