Sopara Vignaptika

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sopara Vignaptika" in English:

Sopara Vignaptika: A Study of the Ancient Jain Site of Sopara

The "Sopara Vignaptika" (Sopara Supplication) is a text that sheds light on the historical and religious significance of the ancient city of Sopara, located near modern-day Mumbai in the Thane district of Maharashtra. The authors, Munisuyashchandravijay and Suyashchandravijay, have compiled and analyzed information from various sources to present a detailed account of this important Jain pilgrimage site.

Historical Context and Significance of Sopara:

• Ancient Capital and Renowned City: Sopara was a prominent city in ancient India and the capital of the Konkan region. Its mention is found across a wide spectrum of literature, including the Mahabharata, Puranas, Buddhist texts, and Jain scriptures.
• Multiple Names: The city was known by various names throughout history, such as Soparaka, Soparga, Sopara, Sahupara, Saurparaka, and Suparik.
• Archaeological Evidence: An inscription by the Shaka Kshatrapa Ushavadata also refers to Sopara, underscoring its historical importance.
• Later Mentions in Jain Literature: In the 14th century, Acharya Jinaprabhasuri mentioned Sopara as a sacred pilgrimage site in his works like 'Kalpa Pradip' and 'Patanapravesh' (within the larger 'Chaturashiti Mahatirthanamasangraha Kalpa') and 'Puranaprabandha Sangraha'. He also recorded the existence of a temple dedicated to Shri Jivitaswami, an idol of Lord Rishabhadeva. Later texts like Munichandrasuri's 'Ashtottarashat Tirtha Mala' and Vinayaprabh Upadhyaya's 'Ashtottarashat Tirtha Yatra Stava' also mention Sopara and the "Jivitaswami of Sopara," indicating its continued renown until the 16th century CE, after which its prominence gradually declined.

Key Aspects of the "Sopara Vignaptika" Text:

• Literary Style and Content: The text is praised for its beautiful language. The author describes the natural beauty of the region, particularly in the earlier verses.
• The "Shetunj Tetu Tadiy Talhati" Verse: A notable verse compares Sopara to being at the "foothills of Shatrunjaya." This is interpreted as a way of highlighting Sopara's spiritual significance, equating it to the renowned Jain pilgrimage site of Shatrunjaya. It suggests that Sopara might have held great importance during that period, possibly having a depiction of Shatrunjaya or a smaller hill shrine known as "Lagu Shatrunjaya" nearby. The text also presents two other supporting lines from other scholars that reinforce this connection.
• The Village of Agasi: The verse "Tat khani aviu gami Agasi" mentions the village of Agasi, located near Sopara, and a temple dedicated to Yugadish Shri Adinath Prabhu. This village is still known as Agasi and is situated near Nalasopara.
• The "Jivitaswami" Iconography: The text delves into the meaning of "Jivitaswami." Citing passages from ancient texts like 'Vasudevahindi' and 'Brihatkalpabhashya,' it explains that "Jivitaswami" refers to an idol of a Tirthankara made during their lifetime. Specifically, in the context of Lord Mahavir Swami, it refers to his idol created before his renunciation, adorned with royal ornaments befitting a prince. The authors note that while the idol of Lord Rishabhadeva is specifically mentioned, the term "Jivitaswami" likely extended to idols of other Tirthankaras made during their time, as evidenced by mentions in texts like 'Prabandhakosha' and ancient inscriptions. The text posits that the Yugadish at Sopara might also have been referred to as Jivitaswami for similar reasons and hopes for further scholarly insights on this matter.
• "Suhuala" Mention: The text notes that Sopara is also mentioned by the name "Suhuala" in some inscriptions on various Jin idols, which are found in works like "History of Jain Tradition."

The Manuscript and Editorial Note:

The current work is based on a manuscript from the Shri Nemi-Vigyan-Kastursuri Jain Gyan Mandir in Surat, and the editors express gratitude to the library management for providing it.

Vocabulary and Glossary:

The text includes a glossary of Gujarati words and their meanings, such as:

• Talhati: Foothills
• Dukiya: Sin
• Khetiya: Removing
• Saragjamali: Like heaven
• Harhara: Grapes
• Pagara: Bunch
• Danta: White
• Ubitha: Became displeased (?)
• Set: White
• Tihṁ pujai: Their wishes are fulfilled
• Lakuṭarasi: Dance with sticks
• Rakhi: Protect
• Upakrama: Effort, endeavor

Related Literature on Sopara:

The text lists several literary works related to Sopara, including:

1. Sopara Vinati
2. Sopara Stavanam
3. Sopara Kamandana Shri Sopara Pattana...
4. Rishabhajina Stuti
5. Sopara Kamandana Rishabhajina Stava (with commentary)
6. Sopara Shri Rishabha-Suri
7. Stuti of Yugadish Adinath

In essence, the "Sopara Vignaptika" is a valuable contribution to understanding the historical and religious significance of Sopara as a crucial center of Jainism, highlighting its literary mentions, unique iconography like the "Jivitaswami," and its connection to other prominent Jain pilgrimage sites.