Sittunja Kappo

Certainly! Based on the provided Jain text, here's a comprehensive summary in English:

The book "Sittunja Kappo" (शत्रुञ्जय-कल्पः), authored by Labhsagar and published by Agamoddharak Granthmala, is a significant Jain text dedicated to the glorification of the holy pilgrimage site of Shatrunjaya, also known as Vimalgiri or Siddha-giri. The text, presented as the forty-first jewel in the Agamoddharak Granthmala series, is a compilation and commentary on the Shatrunjaya Kalpa.

Core Theme and Purpose:

The primary purpose of this text is to extol the immense spiritual significance and purifying power of the Shatrunjaya pilgrimage. It aims to guide and inspire devotees, particularly those with limited understanding, towards the path of Jain spiritual practice by detailing the glorious history and legends associated with this sacred mountain. The text emphasizes that by remembering and venerating Shatrunjaya, individuals can overcome obstacles, purify themselves from karma, and ultimately attain liberation.

Authorship and Commentary:

The primary text is attributed to Acharya Shri Dharmaghoshasurishvar, while the commentary (vritti) is provided by Sadhusattam Shri Shubhashil Gani. The current edition has been researched and compiled by Muniraj Labhsagar Gani, a disciple of Acharya Shri Manikysagarsurishvar.

Key Aspects and Content:

The text highlights Shatrunjaya as a paramount pilgrimage site, surpassing all others in its spiritual efficacy. It asserts that the mere remembrance or sight of Shatrunjaya can lead to immense spiritual merit and the shedding of a vast amount of karma.

The book delves into various aspects of Shatrunjaya through a series of stories and legends (katha) that illustrate the power of faith, devotion, and righteous deeds performed at this holy place. These stories often involve:

• Past Lives and Rebirths: Narratives trace the spiritual journeys of individuals across multiple lifetimes, demonstrating how acts of devotion at Shatrunjaya led to their eventual liberation.
• Royal Patronage and Devotion: Numerous accounts feature kings and queens who undertook significant efforts to protect, renovate, and glorify Shatrunjaya, often through building temples, installing idols, and supporting pilgrims. These stories emphasize the virtue of royal duty aligned with spiritual pursuit.
• Miraculous Events and Divine Intervention: The text recounts instances of divine blessings, miracles, and the intervention of celestial beings in the lives of pilgrims, further reinforcing the sanctity of Shatrunjaya.
• Names and Significance: The book explains the etymological and spiritual significance of various names associated with Shatrunjaya, such as Vimalgiri, Siddha-giri, Siddha-kshetra, and others. It also details the names of future Tirthankaras who will attain liberation there.
• Specific Deities and Their Connection: The text connects the liberation and presence of various Tirthankaras (including Rishabha, Ajit, Sambhav, Abhinandan, Sumati, Padmabha, Suparshva, Chandraprabha, Suvidhi, Shital, Shreyans, Vasupujya, Vimal, Ananta, Dharma, Shanti, Kunthu, Ajit, Malli, Munisuvrat, Nami, Parshva, and Vir), as well as significant figures like Rishabha Sena and the first Ganadhara Pundarika, to Shatrunjaya, highlighting their spiritual achievements on this sacred mountain.
• Ethical Teachings: Interwoven within the narratives are moral and ethical lessons emphasizing the importance of detachment, non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness, compassion, and the diligent practice of Jain principles.
• The Power of Repentance and Purification: Stories often illustrate how even those who have committed significant wrongdoings could find purification and spiritual progress through sincere devotion at Shatrunjaya.

Structure and Compilation:

The text is meticulously structured, with a detailed index (vishayanukram) listing numerous topics covered. The book is vast, with the preliminary pages detailing the publication information, acknowledgments, and a list of corrections (shuddhipatraka). The main body of the text is divided into sections, each focusing on a particular story, legend, or aspect related to Shatrunjaya and its historical figures. The catalog link provided indicates a comprehensive work, likely including numerous specific narratives and teachings.

Overall Message:

"Sittunja Kappo" serves as a powerful testament to the enduring faith and reverence for Shatrunjaya within Jainism. It is a repository of historical accounts, spiritual wisdom, and inspiring narratives designed to foster a deeper understanding and practice of Jainism, underscoring the transformative potential of this sacred pilgrimage.