Shatrunjaya Giriraj Darshan - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Shatrunjaya Giriraj Darshan" by Kapurchand R Baraiya, published by Shri Jain Atmanand Sabha:

Book Title: Shatrunjaya Giriraj Darshan Author/Editor: Pt. Kapurchand Ranchhoddas Baraiya Publisher: Shri Jain Atmanand Sabha, Bhavnagar

Overall Purpose and Content:

This book is a comprehensive guide to the sacred Jain pilgrimage site of Shatrunjaya Giriraj (also known as Siddhachal). It serves as a detailed historical and descriptive account of the mountain, its numerous temples, the legends associated with it, and the rituals and practices of pilgrimage. The book aims to provide pilgrims with valuable information to enhance their spiritual journey and understanding of this highly revered site. It is particularly designed to be a useful companion for travelers undertaking the pilgrimage.

Key Sections and Themes:

Introduction and Publisher's Note:
- The Shri Jain Atmanand Sabha highlights its commitment to publishing Jain literature for many years, including translations of Tirthankar biographies, commentaries on Karma texts, and philosophical works.
- This specific book, "Laghushhatrunjaya Giriraj Darshan," was inspired by a request from the Sabha to provide a publication that would be useful for pilgrims.
- The editor, Kapurchand R Baraiya, adapted the extensive work "Shri Shatrunjaya Tirthdarshan" (compiled by Pujya Acharya Shri Kanchan Sagarsuri M. Sh.) into this shorter, more accessible booklet.
- The publisher expresses gratitude to the individuals and institutions that supported the publication, including the guidance of Pujya Munishri Ravindrasagarji M. and the financial support of the Sabha.
- The ultimate hope is that readers will benefit from this book, perform the pilgrimage with proper understanding, and achieve self-purification and spiritual welfare.
Historical and Mythological Significance:
- The Nature of Tirthas: The book distinguishes between "jangam tirth" (mobile, like the Jain monastic Sangha) and "sthavar tirth" (immobile, like sacred mountains and sites). Shatrunjaya is highlighted as a supreme immobile Tirth.
- Uniqueness of Shatrunjaya: It is stated that only spiritually qualified individuals (bhavya atma) can touch Shatrunjaya, while the unqualified (abhavyas) cannot. This is a unique characteristic not shared by other Tirths.
- Eternal Presence: The mountain is considered "praya shaashvat" (mostly eternal), meaning its form may change, but it will not completely perish even at the end of the current era (panchamaara).
- Holiness and Atmosphere: The environment of Shatrunjaya is described as exceptionally pure, and the mountain itself is inherently pure.
- Tirthoddhars (Reconstructions/Restorations): The text details numerous significant restorations and reconstructions of the Tirth throughout different historical periods and under the influence of various kings, ministers, and wealthy patrons, dating back to Lord Rishabhdev's time. It mentions 16 major restorations in the current era (avasarpini kala) and the final one to be performed by King Vimalvahan under the guidance of Shri Duḥasahasuri Maharaj.
- Numerous Merits: The book emphasizes the immense spiritual merit gained by visiting Shatrunjaya, stating that even touching the mountain or meditating on it can lead to great benefits. It quotes legends and sayings that equate offerings or actions at Shatrunjaya to immense rewards, such as fulfilling desires, attaining spiritual knowledge, and achieving liberation.
Pilgrimage Route and Key Locations:
- The "Talati" (Base): The text describes the evolution of the base area of the mountain from ancient times to the present "Jeytalati."
- The Ascent: The book guides the reader through the ascent, describing the route, the many resting points (visava), water sources (parab), kunds (sacred ponds), and numerous temples and shrines along the way.
- Detailed Descriptions of Temples and Deities: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to describing individual temples, their architecture, the deities enshrined within them, and the legends or historical figures associated with them. This includes descriptions of:
  - Main Temples: Temples of Lord Adinath (the primary deity), Lord Parshvanath, Lord Shantinath, Lord Sumatinath, Lord Neminath, and others.
  - Specific Shrines: "Bhulvani" (Neminath's Chariot), "Gadi Parshvanath's footprints," "Chaukhaji," "Kalyanavimal's Deri," "Meghmuni's Stupa," "Sati Vav," "Hanuman Dhara," "Sukeshal Muni's Footprints," "Nami-Vinami's Footprints," "Jali-Mayali-Uvavali," "Rayan Tree Footprints," and many others.
  - Architectural Marvels: The book highlights the intricate carvings and structures, comparing some to the Vimal Vasahi temple at Mount Abu.
  - The "Nine Toran" (Nav Toonk): A detailed exploration of the nine principal clusters of temples on the mountain, each with its own historical and devotional significance.
  - The "Ghetini Payga" (Path of the Mare): Described as a challenging but sacred path.
- Specific Legends:
  - The Legend of Angarshah Pir: Explains the origin of this shrine, a Muslim saint's tomb, attributed to a historical event and later veneration.
  - The Legend of Hinglaj Mata: Connects this deity to an incident involving a demon named Hingul, whose defeat led to her veneration as Hinglaj Devi.
  - The Story of Vikramshi: Recounts a heroic but tragic tale of Vikramshi, whose sacrifice opened the path for pilgrims.
  - The Story of the "Five Pandavas" Temple: Explains the connection to the Pandavas and their eventual liberation from Shatrunjaya.
  - The Legend of Motishah's Hill (Motivasahi): Details how Seth Motishah filled a deep valley to construct a magnificent temple complex.
  - The "Choukhaji" (Four-Faced Deity): Describes the unique representation of the Tirthankar in four directions.
  - The "Rayan Tree": Highlights the sacredness of the Rayan tree, associated with Lord Rishabhdev's numerous visits and blessings.
- The "Panch Chaitya Vandan" (Five Sacred Devotional Rounds): The book outlines the prescribed sequence of five devotional rounds to be performed at key locations during the pilgrimage.
The Significance of Actions:
- Pilgrimage and Devotion: The book consistently emphasizes the spiritual benefits of performing the pilgrimage, worshipping the deities, reciting mantras, and engaging in austerities.
- Donations and Merits: It mentions the merits gained through various acts of charity and devotion, such as donating umbrellas, flags, chauris, water, and food, and constructing temples.
- Austerities (Taps): The text touches upon the importance of various forms of penance, such as fasting (upavas), Ayambil (eating once a day with specific limitations), and Chaumasa (a period of four months of strict observance).
- "Nav Kshamashaman" (Nine Bows of Respect): The book includes the specific verses and intentions for performing these nine bows, a key devotional practice.
Lists and Appendices:
- List of Sanghpatis: Records the names of prominent individuals and groups who led pilgrimages (sanghs) to Shatrunjaya.
- List of Ancient Texts Describing Shatrunjaya: Enlists various ancient Jain scriptures that mention the significance of Shatrunjaya.
- List of Temples in Palitana City: Provides a comprehensive list of Jain temples located in Palitana town itself.
- List of Famous Jain Tirths in India: Includes a broad overview of other important Jain pilgrimage sites across India.
- List of Dharmashalas (Rest Houses) in Palitana: Offers a directory of accommodation facilities available for pilgrims.
- List of Temples and Statues in the Nine Toran (Nav Toonk): Provides a detailed count of temples and idols within each of the nine major sections of the mountain.
- List of Souls Attaining Liberation (Moksha) at Shatrunjaya: Lists the names of prominent individuals and the numbers of disciples who attained liberation at the Tirth, referencing ancient texts. This is a significant section highlighting the Tirth's power in facilitating moksha.
- Vedic Rituals and Observances: Includes details on performing specific rituals like "Nav Kshamashaman" and "Achham" (fasting rituals).
- "Shodash Uddhar" (Sixteen Restorations): A detailed chronological account of the major restorations of the Tirth.

Editorial Approach:

Adaptation and Compilation: The book is presented as an accessible adaptation of a larger, more scholarly work, making complex historical and devotional information available to a wider audience of pilgrims.
Historical Accuracy and Citations: While emphasizing legends, the editor also attempts to ground the information in historical accounts and references earlier Jain texts.
Inclusion of Illustrations: The presence of illustrations is noted, suggesting a visually rich presentation of the Tirth and its temples.
Spiritual Intent: The underlying tone of the book is devotional, aiming to inspire faith and encourage spiritual growth among the readers.

In essence, "Shatrunjaya Giriraj Darshan" is a detailed and reverent exploration of one of the most sacred sites in Jainism, offering pilgrims a wealth of knowledge, historical context, and devotional guidance.