Shatrunjaya Chaitya Paripatika Stotram

Here's a comprehensive summary of the "Shatrunjaya Chaitya Paripatika Stotram" based on the provided text, focusing on the content and historical context:

Book Title: Shatrunjaya Chaitya Paripatika Stotram Author: Anonymous (though attributed to "Arvindsuri" in the catalog link, the stotram itself states the author is unknown). Publisher: ZZ_Anusandhan

Core Purpose and Context:

The "Shatrunjaya Chaitya Paripatika Stotram" is a devotional hymn in praise of the sacred Jain pilgrimage site of Shatrunjaya, specifically focusing on the various temples (chaityas) and their associated deities located there. The hymn describes the spiritual significance, historical events, and architectural features of these temples.

Historical Background and Authorship:

• Anonymous Authorship: The stotram explicitly states that the author's name is not revealed. However, based on internal details, it is inferred that the temples mentioned were constructed either during the lifetime of Vastupal (a prominent Jain minister and patron of arts and architecture in the 13th century) or in the period immediately following.
• Timeline: The temples described likely date back to the late 13th century and the early 14th century.
• Destruction and Reconstruction: The text alludes to the destruction of these temples by Alavuddin Khilji's army in 1368. It also mentions that the idols, including the primary idol of Adinath Bhagwan, were desecrated during this period. This event necessitated the reconstruction of idols, as done by Samara Shah, a historical fact that is confirmed.
• Publication: The current publishers indicate that the stotram was not previously published in its current form and is being released out of devotion.

Key Themes and Descriptions within the Stotram:

The stotram is structured as a series of verses (slokas), each highlighting a particular aspect of Shatrunjaya and its spiritual significance. The central refrain in most verses is "Shriṁmānasau vijayatāṁ giripuṇḍarīkaḥ," which translates to "May the glorious Giripundarika (Shatrunjaya) be victorious."

The stotram elaborates on the following:

• Shatrunjaya as a Sacred Mountain: It is described as the "King of Mountains" (Giri Pati), crowned with a garland of celestial mansions (Nandendra mandalamani may mauli mala). Its mere sight purifies the eyes and brings spiritual merit.
• Deities and Idols:
  • Adinath Bhagwan (Rishabhanatha): The primary deity, referred to as "Yugadi Jin," "Adimatiirthraj," and "Adideva." The stotram mentions his idol being rebuilt by Savadina. It also refers to a camphor-white idol.
  • Parshvanatha and Vardhamana: The "Pavan Parshvanatha" and "Shri Vardhamana Jinraj" are mentioned, along with Lord Neminatha situated in the lower parts of the temples.
  • Twenty-two Tirthankaras: Mention is made of twenty-two great Tirthankaras (Ajita and others) whose idols are present.
  • Ashtapada Bhagwan: The image of Ashtapada Bhagwan is described as being on the back of another deity.
  • Lord Nami and Lord Vami: The stotram mentions the representation of their forms created by a sword image.
  • Sixteen Tirthankaras: Specifically names the first Jinendra (Adinath), Shreyansanatha, Neminatha, and Veer Jinendra in the second peak.
  • Lord Shantinatha: His image is depicted in the southern part, while another idol of Jadhav resides in the west.
• Spiritual Significance and Benefits of Pilgrimage:
  • Eradication of Karma: Devotees who worship and bow to the main idol (Shri Moolnayak Jin) are said to shed the accumulated karma of millions of lifetimes.
  • Spiritual Bliss: Ascending the peaks and viewing the rows of immaculate temples provides unparalleled happiness.
  • Fulfillment of Desires: The stotram emphasizes that by paying homage to the Lord's footprints, placing a mark on the forehead, and seeing the auspicious signs, devotees attain fortunate lives and their desires are fulfilled.
  • Merit of Darshan: Simply seeing the idol is described as a fruit for the eyes.
  • Purification: Even animals like peacocks, upon touching the summit, are purified and attain divine status.
• Historical Figures and Events:
  • Vastupal's Contribution: The stotram mentions that Minister Vagbhatta, after deliberating, built a temple for Yugadi Jin with a vast sum of money (three crores less three hundred thousand).
  • Javadi's Reconstruction: It states that after one hundred and eight years, King Vikramaditya, with great expense, placed the first deity (Adideva) in the temple, referring to Javadi's work.
  • Other Pilgrimage Sites: The stotram also mentions devotional visits to Nandishwar, Girnar, and Stambhan (Shatrunjaya) as places of pilgrimage.
• Architectural and Natural Features:
  • Jeweled Mountain: The mountain is described as being made of jewels and shining with radiant light.
  • Sacred Lake: The Anupama lake is mentioned as a wonderful source of milky rain, signifying the glory of the Sangha.
  • Priyala Tree: A Priyala tree is mentioned, which is also described as a celestial tree for devotees.
• Divine Grace and Protection: The text mentions Kapardi Yaksha providing shelter in all eight directions.
• Women Devotees: The influence of the "Chakor bird" of the moonlight of the three worlds, Suswamini and Marudevi, is mentioned, who bestow their share of happiness.

Conclusion:

The "Shatrunjaya Chaitya Paripatika Stotram" is a deeply devotional work that venerates Shatrunjaya as a paramount Jain pilgrimage site. It combines historical accounts of temple construction, destruction, and reconstruction with the profound spiritual merits of worshipping the Tirthankaras enshrined there. The stotram serves as a guide and inspiration for pilgrims, highlighting the transformative power of visiting and devotion at Shatrunjaya. The repetition of "May the glorious Giripundarika be victorious" underscores the enduring sanctity and power of this holy mountain.