Siddhachal Tirth Ke 21 Kshamashraman

This Jain text, titled "Siddhachal Tirth ke 21 Kshamaashraman" (21 Practices of Forgiveness at Siddhachal Tirth), authored by Vallabhvijay and published by Atmanand Jain Sabha, Lahore, is a devotional work focused on the sacred pilgrimage site of Siddhachal, also known as Shatrunjay or Palitana.

The book is dedicated to the lineage of Jain Acharyas, specifically mentioning the gurus of the author, highlighting a chain of spiritual succession.

The core of the book consists of devotional verses praising Siddhachal and its significance in Jainism. It describes the sanctity of the pilgrimage, the liberation of numerous souls at this holy site, and the importance of visiting it with pure intentions and proper rituals.

Key themes and content:

• Invocation of Siddhachal: The verses repeatedly invoke Siddhachal, located in the Saurashtra region, emphasizing its power to grant spiritual merit and liberation. The phrase "सिद्धाचल सिमरुं सदा, सोरठ देश मझार । मनुज जन्म शुभ पायके, वंदूं वार हजार ।।" (I always remember Siddhachal, in the land of Saurashtra. Having obtained a blessed human birth, I bow a thousand times) is a recurring refrain.
• Significance of the Pilgrimage: The text highlights the spiritual benefits of undertaking the pilgrimage, including the purification of sins and the attainment of liberation. It mentions that even animals and birds have attained liberation there.
• Various Names and Attributes of Siddhachal: The book lists several names associated with Siddhachal, explaining their origins and significance. These include:
  • Saurashtra: Its geographical location.
  • Shatrunjay: The conqueror of enemies (referring to enemies of the soul like passions).
  • Vimalachal: The pure mountain.
  • Suragiri: The mountain of gods, due to celestial beings frequenting it.
  • Mahagiri: The great mountain, due to its immense size.
  • Shripadgiri: The mountain of the divine foot.
  • Pushpadantgiri: Due to its peaks resembling flowers.
  • Mahapadmagiri: Indicating the great lotus.
  • Suvarngiri: Another name indicating purity.
  • Kadambagiri: Associated with the Kadamb tree.
  • Ujjwalgiri: The bright mountain.
• Liberated Souls (Siddhas): The text recounts instances of numerous souls, including important disciples of Tirthankaras like Pundarik Ganadhar, achieving liberation (moksha) at Siddhachal. The number "21" in the title likely refers to the "21 Kshamaashraman" – a set of devotional practices or verses, possibly associated with the 21st Tirthankara or a specific set of devotional acts. These 21 verses are presented throughout the text, each followed by the refrain and the "Ichchhami KhamaasamaNo" prayer.
• Rituals and Devotion: The importance of pure devotion, proper rituals, and the use of pure offerings are emphasized. It also mentions the significance of specific auspicious days like Kartik Purnima and Chaitra Purnima for pilgrimage.
• Examples of Devotees: The text mentions various devotees who attained liberation, such as Draavid Varkhillji and his family, Pandavas, Shalya, Shuka, and many others.
• The "Kshamaashraman" Practices: The core of the book appears to be the 21 verses, each beginning with a description of Siddhachal's glory or a specific event related to it, followed by the refrain and a prayer for forgiveness ("Ichchhami KhamaasamaNo"). These verses are essentially devotional tributes and prayers.
• Stotras and Vandanas: The latter part of the book includes various stotras (hymns of praise) and vandanas (acts of reverence) dedicated to Siddhachal and the first Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhnath (Adinath). These hymns further elaborate on the spiritual significance, beauty, and efficacy of visiting the pilgrimage site.
• Purpose and Guidance: The concluding sections provide guidance on how to perform pilgrimage rituals, especially for those unable to visit the actual site. It suggests using representations or images of Siddhachal and following specific devotional practices. It emphasizes the importance of Kartik Purnima and Chaitra Purnima as auspicious times for pilgrimage.

In essence, "Siddhachal Tirth ke 21 Kshamaashraman" is a devotional guide and hymn collection that aims to instill reverence for the Siddhachal pilgrimage site and encourage its spiritual practice among Jain followers. It celebrates the site's historical and spiritual importance, highlighting the liberation of countless souls and the path to spiritual upliftment.