Tirth Darshan Part 2

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Tirth Darshan Part 2" based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Tirth Darshan Part 2 Author/Publisher: Mahavir Jain Kalyan Sangh Chennai

This book, "Tirth Darshan Part 2," published by the Mahavir Jain Kalyan Sangh Chennai, is the second volume in a series dedicated to showcasing Jain pilgrimage sites. It aims to provide information and inspiration for Jains and others interested in these sacred locations, enabling a "Tirth Darshan" (pilgrimage vision) even from home.

Key Aspects and Content:

• Purpose and Vision: The book follows the successful first volume, providing details about ancient Jain pilgrimage sites, particularly those with historical significance dating back over 700 years. The goal is to promote awareness and encourage spiritual journeys, reaching both domestic and international Jain communities, as well as non-Jains.
• Content and Scope: "Tirth Darshan Part 2" expands upon the first volume by including details of 40 ancient pilgrimage sites. The compilation process involved meticulous research, study, and compilation, with information being sent to the managing authorities of each site and reviewed by religious scholars (like Acharya Bhagwant Shri Kalpurnasurishwarji) for accuracy and completeness.
• Editorial Note: The editorial section highlights the continuity from the first volume, reassuring readers that foundational information remains consistent. It emphasizes the inclusion of sites with significant history and the effort taken to ensure accuracy. The decision to publish in English alongside Hindi and Gujarati is also noted, broadening the book's reach. The publishers express their intention to release a fourth volume if sufficient details of other ancient sites are gathered.
• Promotional and Usage Guidelines: The publishers stress the importance of promoting the book to ensure wider dissemination and encourage reprints. They also provide specific guidelines for the respectful use of the book, emphasizing its divine nature due to the presence of consecrated idols' photographs. Readers are advised to keep the book in a pure and sacred place, use it for daily study and meditation, and avoid misuse or disrespect.
• Structure and Organization: The book is structured to cover various regions of India, detailing numerous pilgrimage sites within each state. The "Anukramanika" (Index) provides a comprehensive list of these sites, categorized by state and often by specific features or types of pilgrimage site (e.g., ancient site, site with dining facilities, miraculous site, place of Kalyanaka, artistic site).
• Featured Regions and Sites: The provided pages primarily focus on Rajasthan, detailing a significant number of its Jain pilgrimage centers. These include:
  • Rajasthan (Part 1 & 2): A vast number of sites are listed, including Padmaprabhuji (Padampura), Mahavirji, Ravana Parshvanath (Alwar), Ajaymeru (Ajmer), Mandalgadh, Nagaur, Khinvsar, Phalavardhi Parshvanath (Mertaroad), Kaparda, Mandavyapur (Mandore), Gangani, Osian, Tivri, Vijaypurpattan (Phalodi), Jaisalmer, Lodravpur, Amarsagar, Brahmasar, Pokaran, Nakoda, Nageshwar, Chavali, Chitrakoot, Kesariyaji, Aiyad, Dungarpur, Punali, Vatpadra, Rajnagar, Kareda, Nagahrad, Devkulpatak, Nadlai, Muchhala Mahavir, Ranakpur, Nadol, Varkana, Hathundi, Bali, Jakhoda, Korata, Khimmel, Pali, Velar, Khudal, Sevadi, Kolargadh, Sesli, Radbar, Uthaman, Sainderav, Sirohi, Gohili, Mirpur, Virwada, Bamanwada, Nandiya, Ajari, Neetoda, Lotana, Diyana, Sivera, Dhanari, Vatera, Jharoli, Ahor, Siyana, Laj, Nana, Kachholi, Kojra, Pindwada, Handavda, Dhavli, Dantani, Bhandavaji, Swarnagiri, Bhinmal, Satyapur, Kinvarli, Kasindra, Deldar, Derana, Mundasthal, Jirawala, Varman, Mandar, Or, Achalgarh, Delwada (Abu). The book also lists sites in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.
• Detailed Site Information: For each pilgrimage site, the book typically provides:
  • Name of the Tirth: The specific pilgrimage site.
  • Tirthadhiraj: The presiding deity (usually a Tirthankara), their posture (seated/standing), color, and approximate height.
  • Location: The village or area where the site is located.
  • Prachinta (Antiquity): Historical details, including when the idol was discovered or installed, any ancient inscriptions, and notable events related to its history.
  • Visheshata (Specialty): Unique features, miracles associated with the deity, historical importance, or community significance.
  • Any Mandir (Other Temples): Information about any other temples or structures at the site.
  • Kala aur Saundarya (Art and Beauty): Descriptions of the temple architecture, idol artistry, and surrounding natural beauty.
  • Marg Darshan (Route Guidance): Directions to reach the site, including nearest railway stations, road access, and transport facilities.
  • Suvidhaen (Facilities): Information on accommodation (Dharmashalas), dining facilities (Bhojanshala), and other amenities.
  • Pedhi (Management Office): Contact details for the temple administration.
• Visuals: The pages contain photographs and illustrations of the temples and idols, contributing to the "Tirth Darshan" experience.
• Underlying Message: The book emphasizes devotion, the importance of pilgrimage, the miraculous powers of Jain deities, and the rich heritage of Jainism across India. It serves as both a guide and a source of spiritual inspiration.

In essence, "Tirth Darshan Part 2" is a meticulously researched and presented guide to significant Jain pilgrimage sites, primarily focusing on Rajasthan, offering detailed historical, religious, artistic, and practical information to facilitate the spiritual journey of its readers.