Shatrunjay Mahatirthoddhar Prabandh

This document is the "Shatrunjay Mahatirthoddhar Prabandh" (शत्रुंजयतीर्थोद्धारप्रबन्ध), edited by Muni Jinvijay and published by Shri Jain Atmanand Sabha, Bhavnagar. The text details the history and significance of the Shatrunjay mountain, a revered pilgrimage site for Jains.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided text, organized by its key sections:

Overall Purpose:

The book aims to document and preserve the historical narrative of the "Uddhar" (renovation/restoration) of the Shatrunjay Mahatirth (great pilgrimage site), focusing particularly on the efforts of karma Shah. It serves as a historical account, a devotional text, and a guide to understanding the significance of this sacred mountain.

Key Sections and Their Content:

• Title Page (Page 1-2):

  • Confirms the title: "Shatrunjay Mahatirthoddhar Prabandh" (शत्रुजयतीर्थोद्धारप्रबन्ध).
  • Editor: Muni Jinvijay (मुनि जिनविजय).
  • Publisher: Shri Jain Atmanand Sabha, Bhavnagar (श्री जैन आत्मानन्द सभा, भावनगर).
  • It is presented as the third publication in the "Pravartak Shri Kanti Vijay Jain Itihasmala" series.
  • Publication date: Vikram Samvat 2443 / 1973 (संवत् २४४३. विक्रमार्क १९७३).
  • The text is intended for private and personal use.

• Acknowledgements (Page 5):

  • Expresses gratitude to Seth Leelabhai Raichand of Vadodara for their generous financial contribution towards the printing of the book, facilitated by the advice of Muni Chaturvijayji, disciple of Shri Kantivijayji Maharaj.

• Introduction (Upo'ddhat - उपोद्घात):

  • Introduction to Shatrunjay Parvat (Page 8-18):
    • General Significance of Sacred Places: The introduction begins by establishing the universal practice across religions (Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism) of venerating specific locations as holy pilgrimage sites. It lists examples like the Himalayas, Mecca, Jerusalem, and Bodh Gaya.
    • Jain Tirths: It then highlights prominent Jain pilgrimage sites such as Shatrunjay, Girnar, Abu, Taranggiri, and Samet Shikhar, declaring Shatrunjay as the most superior, sacred, and revered among them.
    • Location and Description of Palitana: Shatrunjay is located near Palitana, a princely state in the Kathiawad region of Bombay Presidency. Detailed geographical coordinates are provided. The text describes Palitana town in 1891 as having a population of 10,442, with a significant Jain community, numerous traveler resting places (Dharmashalas), and various Jain institutions like schools, libraries, dispensaries, and monasteries, indicating a bustling and religiously active center.
    • Physical Description of Shatrunjay: The mountain is about 1.5 miles west of Palitana, with a paved road lined with trees leading from the town to its base. It is also known by names like Siddhachal, Vimalachal, and Pundarikgiri. Its height above sea level is 1980 feet. Although not described as exceptionally large or picturesque, its religious significance is paramount.
    • Mythological Significance and Texts: The text refers to the Shatrunjay Mahatmya (शत्रुजयमाहात्म्य) by Acharya Dhaneshwar as a significant Sanskrit work detailing the mountain's glory. It explains the Jain concept of cyclical time (Avasarpini and Utsarpini with six Aras) and how this affects the size and stature of Shatrunjay, which is described as diminishing over time.
    • Mythological History and Liberated Souls: The Mahatmya narrates the mythological history, mentioning that the first Tirthankar, Shri Rishabhdev (Adinath), descended in the third era. He visited Shatrunjay multiple times and described its sanctity. His son, Chakravarti Bharat, built a magnificent golden temple there with gem-studded idols. Pundarik, Bharat's son and the first Gandhar, attained liberation on Shatrunjay with millions of monks. The text lists numerous other prominent figures and groups who attained Moksha (liberation) on Shatrunjay, including Nami-Vinami, Dravid and Varikhilya, Ram-Bharat, Krishna's descendants, the Pandavas, and Narada. It emphasizes that all 23 Tirthankaras (except Neminath) have visited or touched Shatrunjay, making it exceptionally holy. It's believed that even animals and birds on this mountain will attain liberation.
    • Historical Uddhars (Renovations): The Mahatmya details 12 mythological-era renovations and some from the historical era. It mentions that idols from previous eras were hidden in secret caves for safekeeping.
    • Notable Historical Uddhars:
      • Javad Shah: The text extensively narrates the story of Javad Shah (or Bhavad's son Javad), a poor devotee whose family was blessed by monks. He rose to prosperity and, upon hearing of the desecration of Shatrunjay by "Mlecchas" (foreign invaders), undertook its restoration. He brought an idol from Takshashila, and after facing various obstacles and performing rituals, established it. Tragically, both Javad and his wife fell from the peak after the flag-hoisting ceremony and died. A popular saying, "This is the work of Javad Bhavad!", is still used for unfinished tasks due to his efforts. The date for Javad Shah's Uddhar is given as Vikram Samvat 108.
      • King Shiladitya: Another historical Uddhar is attributed to King Shiladitya of Valabhi in Samvat 477. The text notes the rise of Buddhism and its influence, with Buddhist monks replacing Jain idols with Buddha statues. Dhaneshwar Suri converted King Shiladitya to Jainism, who then performed the renovation and re-established the idol of Adinath.
    • Other Sacred Texts: Besides the Mahatmya, there are "Kalpa" texts in Prakrit (by Acharya Dharmaghosh Suri) and Sanskrit (by Jinprabh Suri), which briefly mention the mountain's glories and hidden treasures.
    • Enduring Devotion: The profound stories of Shatrunjay's sanctity have fostered immense faith among Jains for centuries, enabling the continuous restoration of the tirth despite destruction by invaders. The text highlights that the expenditure of wealth on Shatrunjay by Jains is unparalleled. It quotes Alexander Forbes from 'Rasamala' about the widespread financial contributions from across India to Shatrunjay.
    • Pilgrimage Practices: The introduction emphasizes that very few Jains do not undertake or wish to undertake a pilgrimage to Shatrunjay. Even before the advent of railways, millions of people undertook the arduous journey, often in organized groups called "Sanghs" (संघ). Wealthy patrons would fund these Sanghs, enabling many to complete the pilgrimage. The practice of leading and participating in these Sanghs is considered highly meritorious.

• Modern Account (Adhunik Vrittant - आधुनिक वृत्तान्त) (Page 21-33):

  • Journey to the Summit: The road from Palitana leads to the base of the mountain at "Bhatha Taleti," where resting places and refreshments (Laddu and Sev) are provided. From here, the climb begins.
  • Landmarks on the Path:
    • Babu's Temple: Built by Rai Bahadur Dhanpati Singh and Lakshmipati Singh of Murshidabad in memory of their mother.
    • Dholi Parab ka Visama: A resting spot with a water fountain.
    • Bharat Chakravarti's Charan: Footprints are found at various places.
    • Kumarpal Kund and Rest Stop: Associated with King Kumarpal.
    • Hinglaj Devi's Dheri: An elderly Brahmin makes pronouncements here.
    • Hanuman's Dheri: A statue of Hanuman is present.
  • Hindu and Muslim Shrines: The text notes the presence of shrines dedicated to Hindu deities like Hanuman, Ganesh, and Bhavani, likely established by Brahmin priests or soldiers. It also mentions a tomb of a Muslim Peer, with a legend of a sorcerer named Angarsha who caused trouble and was killed, his remains buried there. The text suggests this tomb might have been constructed during Alauddin Khilji's reign to deter Muslim invaders.
  • The "Tonks" (Temples) on the Summit: The summit is divided into two parts, with numerous temples forming clusters called "Tonks." Each Tonk is fortified like a small fort with gates. The tenth Tonk is the largest, occupying the second peak. The overall view from the summit is described as awe-inspiring, a "city of temples."
  • Detailed Description of Tonks (Page 27-33): The text provides brief descriptions of several significant Tonks:
    • Choumukhji ki Tok (Page 27-28): Located on the highest point, it features a four-faced temple of Adinath, described as a massive fort-like structure with impressive dimensions and a 10-foot-tall idol. The construction cost is estimated at 58 lakh rupees.
    • Chhipaavasahi ki Tok (Page 28): Built by the Chhipa (dyers) community.
    • Sakarachand Premchand ki Tok (Page 29): Named after its builder.
    • Ujam Bai ki Tok (Page 29): Features a Nandi's Island configuration.
    • Hema Bhai Seth ki Tok (Page 30).
    • Premchand Modi ki Tok (Page 30): Built by a wealthy Modi, noted for his vast charitable works.
    • Balabhai ki Tok (Page 30-31): Features an 18-foot-tall idol of Adinath carved from the mountain itself, worshipped once a year.
    • Motishah Seth ki Tok (Page 31-32): Built by Motishah Seth, who filled a large chasm ("Kuntasar ki Khad") and constructed a magnificent temple. It was completed by his son Kimchand.
    • Aadishwar Bhagwan ki Tok (Page 32-33): Located on the second peak, it is the largest and houses the historic and significant temple of Adinath Bhagwan. The text mentions temples built by prominent figures like Sammat Singh, Kumarpal, Vastupal-Tejpal, and Samara Shah.
  • Preservation of Antiquity: The text expresses regret that while the temples are beautiful, renovations have altered the original architecture and inscriptions, making it difficult for archaeologists to distinguish between old and new parts. It criticizes the lack of care for ancient art and inscriptions during renovations, attributing this to inter-sectarian rivalry.

• History of the Main Temple (Mukhya Mandir ka Itihas - मुख्य मन्दिर का इतिहास) (Page 34-45):

  • Origin: The main temple, which is the crown jewel of the tirth, was first built by Chakravarti Bharat for his father, Lord Adinath.
  • Renovations (Uddhars): It reiterates the 12 mythological-era renovations and mentions the two historical Uddhars of Javad Shah and King Shiladitya. It also references Dharmaghosh Suri's "Prakrit Kalpa," which mentions restorations by Kings Samprati, Vikram, and Shahhavahan, though with caveats about proof.
  • Bahad Minister's Uddhar: The current main temple is attributed to the minister Bahad (Vagbhat) during the reign of King Kumarpal (13th century CE). The text recounts how Bahad's father, Udayan, witnessed the dilapidated state of the wooden temple and vowed to rebuild it in stone. Udayan died in battle before fulfilling his vow, but his sons, Bahad and Ambad, carried out his wish. The construction faced challenges, including a split in the temple, which Bahad rectified. He then organized a grand Sangh with Acharya Hemchandrasuri, costing a significant amount.
  • Samara Shah's Uddhar: After Bahad's era, during the invasions of Shahabuddin Ghori and Alauddin Khilji, Shatrunjay was damaged. The idol of Adinath had its neck severed, and Bahad's temple was also damaged. Jinprabh Suri dates this incident to Samvat 1369. Samara Shah, a powerful merchant, intervened with Alauddin and then undertook repairs. He brought marble from the Mammaan mines and, with the help of Acharya Ratnakar Suri, re-established the idol in Samvat 1371. Inscriptions from this time still exist.
  • Karma Shah's Uddhar: The text then details the most significant historical Uddhar by Karma Shah. His father, Tola Shah, a wealthy and devout Jain, had a vision from his family goddess, foretelling that Karma Shah would fulfill the desire for the tirth's renovation. Karma Shah, a successful cloth merchant, had a close relationship with Prince Bahadur Shah of Gujarat. He supported Bahadur Shah financially and in return, secured a royal decree to undertake the renovation of Shatrunjay and establish his family deity. He organized a massive Sangh and, with the guidance of Acharya Vidyamandana Suri and his disciples, including Vinayamandan Pathak, meticulously rebuilt the temples and consecrated the idols in Samvat 1587. The account details the immense generosity and organizational skills of Karma Shah, his vast expenditure, and the grand festivities. The text also mentions that earlier, Vastupal had procured marble pieces for idol replacement, which were later used by Karma Shah.
  • Legacy of Karma Shah: Karma Shah's devotion and contributions are lauded. The text concludes this section by mentioning that the inscription detailing Karma Shah's renovation was composed by Kavi Lavanyasama and written by the author himself.

• Historical Summary (Aitihasik Sar-Bhag - ऐतिहासिक सार-भाग) (Page 46-76):

  • This section provides a more concise historical summary, reiterating the lineage of Gurus and the key figures involved in the Uddhars.
  • It details the lineage of the Gurus involved in Karma Shah's restoration, from Vijaya Ratnasuri to Vivekdhir Gani.
  • It also provides the family tree of Karma Shah, listing his father Tola Shah, mother Leelu, brothers, wives, and children.
  • The section further elaborates on the political context, mentioning the dynasties that ruled Gujarat (Chapotkata, Chalukya, Vaghela) and the Muslim rulers in Delhi and Gujarat.
  • The narrative of Karma Shah's life, his relationship with Bahadur Shah, and his commitment to the Shatrunjay renovation are recounted, emphasizing his generosity, devotion, and the auspicious timing of the restoration and consecration.

• Appendices (Parishishta - परिशिष्ट):

  • Karma Shah's Grand Inscription: The full inscription of Karma Shah's renovation, composed by Kavi Lavanyasama, is presented. It recounts the lineage of rulers and merchants leading to Karma Shah and details his actions and the significance of the event.
  • Genealogies: The text includes genealogies of the Gurus involved and Karma Shah's family, providing a visual representation of the historical connections.
  • Inter-Gachha Agreement: A significant appendix contains an "Anupurti" (अनुपूर्ति) which is an agreement between various Jain Gachhas (sects) regarding the ownership and management of Shatrunjay. It states that the main fort and the temple of Adinath are for all Jains, while other temples belong to specific Gachhas. It asserts that Shatrunjay belongs to all Jains equally and no single entity can claim exclusive ownership without proper documentation. This highlights the collaborative spirit and the efforts to maintain unity for the tirth.

Overall Themes and Significance:

• The Sanctity of Shatrunjay: The text consistently emphasizes the supreme holiness and spiritual merit associated with Shatrunjay.
• Devotion and Sacrifice: It highlights the immense devotion and sacrifices made by Jains throughout history, particularly by wealthy patrons and religious leaders, to protect and restore this sacred site.
• Historical Preservation: The book serves as a vital historical document, preserving the narratives of past renovations and the individuals who contributed to them.
• Lineage and Tradition: It traces the lineage of spiritual teachers and the transmission of religious knowledge and practices through generations.
• Community and Unity: The inter-Gachha agreement underscores the importance of Jain unity and collaborative efforts in preserving their heritage.

In essence, "Shatrunjay Mahatirthoddhar Prabandh" is a detailed and reverent account of the restoration of the Shatrunjay pilgrimage site, weaving together mythology, history, and the deep faith of the Jain community. It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of this holy mountain and the people who have dedicated themselves to its upkeep.