Stambhan Parshwanath - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Stambhan Parshwanath" by Acharya Vijaypadmasuri, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Stambhan Parshwanath (Mahaaprabhaavshaali Purushaadaaniya Shri Stambhan Parshwanath) Author: Acharya Vijaypadmasuri Publisher: Shri Stambhan Parshwanath 700 Varsh Ujvani Samiti, Khambhat Year: 2013 AD / 2069 VS

Overall Purpose: This book, published by the committee celebrating the 700th anniversary of the installation of the idol of Shri Stambhan Parshwanath in Khambhat, aims to provide the history and significance of this revered Jain idol. It draws upon ancient Jain scriptures and historical accounts to narrate the divine journey and miraculous attributes of this particular Parshwanath image.

Key Content and Themes:

The 700th Anniversary Celebration: The book begins by detailing the joyous celebration of the 700th anniversary of the idol's presence in Khambhat. This involved extensive community outreach, including distributing sweets to 182,000 families (both Jain and non-Jain), providing essential kits to 96 needy Jain families, and distributing monthly ration kits to approximately 1080 Jain families living below the poverty line. Significant funds were raised through the grace of Lord Stambhanji.
Acts of Charity and Devotion: The celebrations also included substantial donations for animal welfare (saving lives and providing sustenance) and support for Jain temples in Khambhat. The printing of this booklet itself is a part of the celebration, with plans for further literature on the history of Stambhanji and Khambhat.
Creation of a Replica: A significant undertaking was the creation of a replica of the Stambhan Parshwanath idol. While initially intended for wider distribution, the cost and varying enthusiasm led to a limited production, with proceeds going to the temple.
Installation of Acharya Abhaydevsuriji's Idol: A key event was the installation of an idol of Acharya Abhaydevsuriji Maharaj, who is credited with revealing the idol of Stambhan Parshwanath (located near the village of Thamana-Stambhankapur, on the banks of the Sedhi river in VS 1131). The idol was inspired by an 800-year-old guru idol from Rajasthan. This act of remembrance was done to honor his significant contribution to Jainism, particularly his commentary on nine Anga Sutras.
The History of the Stambhan Parshwanath Idol:
- Origin and First Installation: The idol's origins are traced back to the previous chovisi (era) with the 16th Tirthankar, Shri Namiath. An ascetic named Ashadhi is said to have installed three idols of Shri Parshwanath, one of which is the Stambhan Tirtha idol. There are varying accounts regarding its first installation, with some suggesting its origin is unknown and others attributing it to Mamman Seth during the time of Kuntunath Bhagwan.
- Divine Worship: The idol has been worshipped by various divine beings, including Indras, Vasudevas, and Varunas.
- Historical Encounters and Journeys: The narrative recounts the idol's journey through various eras and locations:
  - During the time of Shri Munisuvrat Swami, it was in Champanagari, where it was worshipped by Kartik Seth, who later became Saudharmendra.
  - During their exile, Lord Rama worshipped the idol with flowers brought by Sita for seven months and nine days.
  - Later, it was handed over to Indra. Shakra Indra worshipped it for 11 lakh years.
  - During the time of Lord Neminath and Krishna Vasudev, it was used to overcome an epidemic affecting Krishna's army.
  - After being with Krishna Vasudev, it was taken to Dwarka and worshipped for 700 years. During the fire at Dwarka, the idol and its temple remained unaffected.
  - The idol was then submerged in the ocean, where it was worshipped by Dharanendra and his consorts for 80,000 years. Subsequently, Varunadev worshipped it for 4,000 years.
- The Role of Dhaneshwar (Sagaradatta) and Padmavati Devi: During the time of Lord Mahavir, a merchant named Dhaneshwar (Sagaradatta) was traveling by sea. His ships stopped in the middle of the ocean. The presiding deity, Padmavati Devi, revealed that the idol was at the bottom of the sea and instructed the merchant to bring it to his city. With her help and a seven-stranded cotton rope, the idol was retrieved. The merchant brought it to Kanti Puri, where it was worshipped for 2,000 years.
- The Legend of Nāgārjuna: The text details the life of Nāgārjuna, a highly accomplished scholar and alchemist. It describes his initial arrogance, his encounter with Acharya Shripadalipatsuri, and his eventual humility and devotion to the Acharya. Nāgārjuna's journey highlights the pursuit of knowledge, the overcoming of pride, and the importance of spiritual guidance. His contributions, like establishing the city of Padaliptana (Palitana), are also mentioned.
- The Story of Acharya Shripadalipatsuri: The book extensively narrates the life and achievements of Acharya Shripadalipatsuri, including his unique birth, his mastery of scriptures at a young age, his miraculous powers (like aerial travel), his scholarly debates, and his divine interventions. His interactions with kings, scholars, and his disciples showcase his profound wisdom and spiritual stature.
- The Revelation by Acharya Abhaydevsuriji: A significant part of the narrative focuses on how Acharya Abhaydevsuriji Maharaj rediscovered the idol. It mentions his arduous penance (Ayambil Tap) for six months to compose commentaries on the nine Anga Sutras, aided by the Shasan Devi. He faced physical suffering and societal criticism but persevered. Guided by divine intervention, he was led to the idol, which was hidden in the Sedhi riverbed near Palas trees.
- The Idol's Rediscovery and Installation: A cow belonging to a cowherd was observed to be shedding milk at a specific spot. Upon investigation, the idol of Shri Parshwanath was found. The cowherd was compensated, and the idol was taken by the Jain community. Acharya Abhaydevsuriji composed a new stotra (hymn) called "Jayatihuyan," and as he recited the 33rd verse, the radiant idol of Shri Parshwanath emerged. This event marked the site as a holy pilgrimage. The idol's presence cured the Acharya's illness.
- The Idol's Journey to Khambhat: The text notes that after its rediscovery, the idol remained in Kanti Puri for some time, then in the ocean, and in various cities before being brought to Khambhat (Stambhatirth) in 1368 AD due to disturbances in Gujarat.
- The Blackening of the Idol: The idol, originally made of sapphire (neelam), was later coated with a dark substance to prevent theft and covetousness, explaining its current dark appearance.
The Significance of Stambhan Parshwanath:
- Miraculous Powers: The idol is described as having immense power to cure diseases like leprosy, break bonds, overcome obstacles, and fulfill all desires, both worldly and spiritual.
- Spiritual Benefits: Merely seeing the idol with devotion is said to grant the merits of undertaking a six-month fast. Performing worship with devotion and proper rituals offers even greater benefits, leading to wealth, prosperity, good fortune, and ultimately, liberation.
- Connection to Acharya Abhaydevsuriji: The strong connection between Acharya Abhaydevsuriji and the rediscovery and establishment of this idol is a central theme, highlighting his role in bringing this divine power to the current era.

Author's Intent: Acharya Vijaypadmasuri, through this publication, aims to:

Share the glorious history and miraculous powers of Shri Stambhan Parshwanath.
Inspire devotion and faith among Jain devotees.
Commemorate the 700th anniversary of the idol's presence in Khambhat.
Provide a historical and scriptural account of the idol's journey and significance.

In essence, the book is a comprehensive historical and devotional narrative that venerates Shri Stambhan Parshwanath, tracing its divine lineage, its miraculous journey through time, its rediscovery through the efforts of great Acharyas, and its enduring power to bring solace and spiritual benefits to its devotees.