Taranga Tirthno Itihas Ne Bhomiyo

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Taranga Tirthno Itihas ne Bhomiyo" (The History and Guide of Taranga Tirth) by Fulchand Harichand Doshi, based on the provided pages:

Overview and Purpose:

The book "Taranga Tirthno Itihas ne Bhomiyo" by Fulchand Harichand Doshi serves as a historical account and a practical guide for pilgrims visiting the sacred Jain Tirth (pilgrimage site) of Taranga. Published in 1923 (Veer Samvat 2449), it aims to provide detailed information about the Tirth's history, significance, and practical aspects for travelers and history enthusiasts.

Dedication:

The book is dedicated in memory of the author's maternal uncle, Odhavji Bechar Desi, who instilled in him spiritual values, tolerance, and peace during his childhood.

Inspiration for the Book:

The author was inspired to write this book after reading an historical article about Taranga Tirth by Muni Shri Kalyansuriji. His personal visits to the Tirth, experiencing its natural beauty, impressive temples, and caves, further fueled his desire to create a guide for fellow pilgrims and history lovers. He expresses gratitude to Shri Mad Vijayindrasuriji for providing valuable historical information from various texts and to Muni Shri Vimalvijayji for his guidance and suggestions.

Key Sections and Content:

The book is structured into several key sections:

1. Ancient History:

   • Taranga is presented as a prominent Jain pilgrimage site, comparable to Shatrunjaya, Girnar, and Abu.
   • The author highlights the importance of understanding the history and purpose of a Tirth to truly appreciate its significance.
   • Pre-Jain Era: Evidence suggests the presence of Buddhist influence at Taranga.
     • Tarai Mata: Located north of the Tirth, this site is identified with the Buddhist "Tara Devi." An ancient inscription on a stone, dated to the 7th or 8th century Vikram, confirms this.
     • Jogidani Gufa (Cave of the Yogis): Also identified as a Buddhist site, this cave still contains seated Buddha images and was likely a meditation place for Buddhist monks.
   • Naming of Taranga: While the establishment of Tara Devi is a possible reason, the author explores other etymologies.
     • Inscriptions from the 13th century refer to the mountain as "Targak Parvat."
     • Acharya Prabhachandra mentions it as "Tarang Nag."
     • Munisundarsuri and Jinmandan Gani from the 15th century refer to it as "Tarana-Durg," suggesting it was previously known as "Tarana-Gadh" (Tarana Fort). The name might have evolved from Tarana-Gadh to Tar-Gadh to Taranga, or from Tarang-Nag with the elision of a word.

2. Kumarapala Maharaja's Contribution:

   • The history of Taranga becomes prominent from the 13th century, with King Kumarpala of Gujarat and the great Jain scholar Acharya Hemachandracharya being instrumental.
   • Origin Story: The book recounts how King Kumarpala, after a victory over King Anoraja of Shakambhari, vowed to establish a Tirth in commemoration. Inspired by Acharya Hemachandracharya, who described Taranga as a second Shatrunjaya, Kumarpala commissioned the construction of a grand temple for Lord Ajitnath, measuring 101 angulas (finger widths) in height.
   • Establishment Date: The exact year of the Tirth's consecration is not precisely known but is estimated to be between 1147 and 1161 AD (during Kumarpala's reign).

3. Collaborations and Further Development:

   • Minister Vastupala: Minister Vastupala contributed by building two small shrines within the Ajitnath temple, which now house Yaksha-Yakshini idols instead of Jain Tirthankara images.
   • Nāgapuriya Sah Lāhda: This individual is credited with creating images of Adinath in the main hall of the temple, as mentioned in an inscription from 1299 AD.

4. Renovations and Historical Events:

   • Govind Sanghvi's Renovation: The text details the renovation efforts by Govind Sanghvi, a prominent figure from Idar. It's speculated that the original idols might have been damaged during Alauddin Khilji's invasion, prompting Govind Sanghvi to commission new idols. He transported a large stone from Arasani Amba Devi for this purpose.
   • Re-consecration: The new idols of Lord Ajitnath were consecrated by Acharya Samsundarsuri with great fanfare, attracting thousands of people. This event is estimated to have occurred before 1482 AD, during the reign of Rao Punja of Idar.
   • Damaged Inscriptions: A reference to a damaged inscription from 1472 AD suggests a potential conflict or event around that time.

5. Key Attractions and Features of Taranga Tirth:

   • Main Temple: The grand and colossal temple dedicated to Lord Ajitnath is described as a marvel of architecture, possibly unmatched in its height and grandeur across India. The craftsmanship is highly praised.
   • Bhulbhulaiya (Labyrinth): The temple complex features a challenging labyrinth, described as difficult to navigate for ordinary people without a light.
   • Kangar Wood: A special type of wood called "Kangar" is used in the labyrinth, noted for its fire-resistant properties.
   • Other Temples:
     • Nandishwar Temple: Contains 24 small shrines.
     • Ashtapadji Temple: Features a "Sahasrakut" (thousand-peak) design, footprints of 1452 Ganadharas, and scenes depicting Ravana worshipping Tirthankaras. It also depicts the Samavsaran of Lord Mahavir Swami and representations of the fourteen raj lokas (realms).
   • Siddh Shila (Enlightenment Rock): Located north of the main temple, this hill is believed to be where Muni Anant attained liberation. It has a Chaumukhji (four-faced) shrine and footprints.
   • Koti Shila (Crore Rock): Situated south of the temple, this rock is where "Kored Munis" attained Kevalgyan (omniscience). It offers panoramic views of the entire hill and is a place for evening relaxation.
   • Pap Punyani Bari (Gate of Sin and Merit): Located about half a mile east of the temple, this hill features ancient ruins, indicating previous settlements. An inscription from 1275 AD is found on a statue in a shrine here.
   • Tarana Gadh (Tarana Fort): The ruins of a strong fort, historically known as "Tarana-Durg," are visible in various parts, with remnants of its thick walls and gateways.
   • Jogidani Gufa (Cave of the Yogis): This Buddhist cave, located northwest of the fort, offers a sense of peace and natural beauty.
   • Tarai Mata and Dharan Mata: The shrines dedicated to Tarai Mata (identified with Buddhist Tara Devi) and her sister Dharan Mata are described, along with the associated legend of seven daughters.
   • Digambar Temples: Separate Digambar temples are also present near the main Shwetambar temple.

6. Objectives of Pilgrimage:

   • Pilgrimage is presented as a means to find peace, joy, and respite from the worldly struggles of life.
   • It's a path for spiritual purification, connecting with the teachings of great souls, and experiencing the sanctity of places blessed by Tirthankaras.
   • The author emphasizes that a spiritual purpose, rather than mere sightseeing, should drive a pilgrimage.

7. Benefits of Pilgrimage:

   • Peace and relaxation from worries.
   • Improved health through a change of environment.
   • Inspiration from the lives of saints.
   • Mental stability and happiness.
   • Fostering brotherhood through encounters with fellow pilgrims.
   • Joy derived from natural landscapes.
   • Overall physical, mental, and spiritual purification.
   • A means to attain Moksha (liberation).

8. Preparation for Pilgrimage:

   • Thorough planning regarding destination, companions, and budget.
   • Choosing an appropriate time for travel, ideally during the mild weather of Maha month.
   • Ensuring financial preparedness due to potential expenses.
   • Packing minimally and essential items.
   • Carrying basic necessities like water containers, toiletries, bedding, and small utensils.
   • Including a basic medical kit.
   • Bringing religious books for spiritual enrichment and time utilization.

9. Conduct During Pilgrimage (Khari Yatra):

   • Pilgrims are urged to practice austerity, control anger, pride, deceit, and greed.
   • Maintaining equanimity and refraining from falsehood or causing harm to any living being.
   • Observing celibacy and practicing self-control.
   • Engaging in penance, meditation, prayer, and charity as per one's capacity.
   • Emphasizing the importance of right intention and place (Kshetra) for donations.
   • The author stresses that misbehavior or sin committed at a pilgrimage site carries severe consequences.

10. Pilgrim Carelessness and a Plea for Preservation:

    • The author expresses deep regret and concern over the disrespect shown by some pilgrims towards the sanctity of the Tirth.
    • Many pilgrims deface the walls of temples, dharamshalas, and other structures with names, graffiti, and unwanted writings, seeking to immortalize themselves.
    • This act is considered a great disrespect (Ashatana) to the sacred site and an insult to the legacy of the ancestors.
    • The author appeals to pilgrims to refrain from such actions and to actively discourage others from doing so. He calls for collective responsibility in preserving the sanctity of the Tirth.
    • The book includes a list of specific instructions for pilgrims, urging them to maintain cleanliness, avoid dual food habits (Kandmool, Ratribhojan), use pure materials for worship, and treat fellow pilgrims with brotherly love, and to remember that the Tirth is for self-purification.

Chaitya Vandan and Stavan:

The book concludes with devotional hymns (Chaitya Vandan) and praises (Stavan) dedicated to Lord Ajitnath, composed by various Jain scholars like Shri Virvijayji, Shri Padhyavijayji, Shri Vallabh, Shri Niyavijayji, and Shri Mishridhanji. These hymns express devotion, seek blessings, and highlight the glory of Lord Ajitnath and Taranga Tirth.

In essence, "Taranga Tirthno Itihas ne Bhomiyo" is a comprehensive and informative guide that blends historical research, religious significance, and practical advice for those undertaking a pilgrimage to the revered Taranga Tirth, while also serving as a strong advocacy for its preservation.