Tirth Mala Sangraha - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Tirth Mala Sangraha" by Kalyanvijay Gani, based on the provided catalog link and the text content.

Book Title: Tirth Mala Sangraha (Collection of Pilgrimage Accounts) Author: Pandit Kalyanvijay Gani Publisher: Shri Parshwawadi, Post Ahor (Rajasthan) First Edition: 1673 (Vikram Samvat 2030, Veer Samvat 2466)

Overview: "Tirth Mala Sangraha" is a compilation of ancient Jain pilgrimage accounts, known as "Tirthmalas" and "Chaitya Paripatis." These texts meticulously describe the routes to, and the significance of, various sacred Jain pilgrimage sites. The book aims to preserve and disseminate knowledge about these important religious destinations, drawing from ancient Jain scriptures and traditions.

Key Themes and Content:

The book is structured as a collection of individual pilgrimage narratives and descriptions of sacred sites, often presented in a poetic or devotional style. The primary focus is on the veneration of Tirthankaras (Jain spiritual teachers) and the sacred places associated with their lives and spiritual journeys.

The introductory sections emphasize the Jain understanding of "Tirth" (pilgrimage site). Initially, the term "Tirth" referred to the Jain teachings and the monastic order, with Tirthankaras being the founders and guides. The word's literal meaning relates to safe passage across rivers or seas, metaphorically extending to overcoming the ocean of worldly existence through Jain teachings and the Sangha. Physical pilgrimage sites are considered "Dravya Tirth" (material Tirths).

The text then delves into various categories of Jain Tirths:

Sutrokt Tirth (Scripturally Mentioned Tirths): These are the most ancient and significant Tirths directly referenced in foundational Jain scriptures like the Acharanga Sutra and its commentaries. The book details several of these, including:
- Ashtapad: Described as the place of Lord Rishabhdev's (the first Tirthankara) nirvana, it is presented as inaccessible today due to its arduous nature and historical transformations. The text details its location relative to Ayodhya and the legends of its construction and sanctity.
- Ujjayant (Girnar): Known by multiple names (Raivata, Girnar), this site is significant for Lord Neminath's (the 22nd Tirthankara) initiation, enlightenment, and nirvana. The text discusses its mineral wealth and various legends associated with it, including its description in the "Ujjayant Mahatirth Kalpa."
- Gajagrapada: Mentioned in the Acharanga Sutra, this Tirth is linked to an event involving Lord Mahavir and King Dasharathabhadra, where Indra's elephant left its footprint, leading to the establishment of a temple. Its exact location is now lost.
- Dharmachakra: Associated with Lord Rishabhdev, this site was a monument built by King Bahubali. The text elaborates on its construction and later association with Lord Chandprabh. It also discusses how this Tirth later came under Buddhist influence.
- Ahichhatra Parshvanath: This Tirth is linked to Lord Parshvanath (the 23rd Tirthankara) and the serpent king Dharanendra who protected him from a storm. The text mentions the miraculous properties of the waters and soil in this region.
- Rathavarta: Identified as the place where Arya Vajraswami, a prominent Jain monk, attained nirvana. The text speculates on its location near ancient Vidisha.
- Chamrotpat: Associated with Lord Mahavir and the celestial being Chamarendra, this site commemorates an event where Lord Mahavir protected Chamarendra.
- Shatrunjay: Considered a paramount Jain pilgrimage site today, it is mentioned in later scriptures like the Gyata Dharma Kathanga and Antakrit Dashanga Sutra for the nirvana of the Pandavas and numerous monks of Lord Neminath. The text suggests it was more significantly associated with Lord Neminath's era than Lord Rishabhdev's.
- Dev-nirmit-stoop of Mathura: Though not directly in the earliest scriptures, its mention in later commentaries highlights its importance. The text narrates the legend of its creation by a forest deity to resolve a dispute between Jain and Buddhist followers, ultimately establishing Jain ownership through a divine test.
- Sammeta Shikhar (Parasnath Hill): This site is significant as the nirvana place for 20 out of 24 Tirthankaras of the current era. The text notes its importance as a Tirth due to this profound spiritual connection.
Kalyanak Bhumi (Places of Auspicious Events): These are locations where significant events in the lives of Tirthankaras (birth, initiation, enlightenment, nirvana) occurred. While many of these are still recognized as Tirths, the text acknowledges that some have lost their original prominence.
Other Famous Tirths: The book also lists numerous other important Jain Tirths that, while not always explicitly detailed in the earliest sutras, are well-known and celebrated in Jain tradition and literature. Examples include: Prabhas-Patan, Stambha Tirth (Khambhat), Bhruch, Suparaka, Shankhapur (Sankheshwar), Taranga, Arbudgiri (Mount Abu), Satyapuriya, Swarnagiri, Vidisha, Nasikya, Kulpak, Khandagiri, Shravanabelgola, etc. The text distinguishes between original Tirths and those that are rebuilt or represent ancient sites.

Specific Pilgrimage Accounts (Mala/Paripati): The collection includes detailed accounts of journeys to specific Tirths, often written in a lyrical style. Some of the prominent ones mentioned are:

Shri Shatrunjay Tirth Marg Chaitya Paripati: Describes a pilgrimage route to Shatrunjay, mentioning various towns and temples visited along the way, emphasizing devotional practices.
Jalor Nagar Chaitya Paripati: Details the sacred sites within the city of Jalor, highlighting various Jin Mandirs and the devotion of its residents.
Patan Chaitya Paripati: Describes the numerous temples and deities in Patan, listing many specific locations and the number of idols, showcasing the city's significance as a Jain pilgrimage center.
Shri Rajnagar Tirthmala: Provides an account of the pilgrimage to Rajnagar, mentioning various shrines and the devotion of the people.
Tirthadhiraja Shri Shatrunjay Giri Tirthmala: Focuses on the supreme pilgrimage site of Shatrunjay, detailing the route and the devotional significance of the journey.
Shri Shatrunjay Tirth Chaitya Paripati: Another description of the Shatrunjay pilgrimage, likely offering a different perspective or focus.
Shri Tapa Gachha and Kharatara Gachha Shatrunjay: This section likely discusses the historical presence and practices of these two major Jain monastic lineages at Shatrunjay, possibly touching upon any historical disputes or unique traditions.
Shri Girnar Tirthmala: Details the pilgrimage to the sacred Mount Girnar.
Shri Nadol Panchtirthi Tirthmala: Describes five specific pilgrimage sites associated with Nadol.
Shri Sammeta Shikhar Chaitya Paripati: Focuses on the pilgrimage to the holy mountain of Sammeta Shikhar.
Shri Sammeta Shikhar Tirthmala: Another account of the Sammeta Shikhar pilgrimage.

Editor's Note (Page 4): The editor notes that the ancient Tirthmalas and Chaitya Paripatis were transcribed from stone inscriptions. While efforts were made to correct any errors during transcription, the editor cautions readers that some mistakes might have crept in during the printing process due to the inability to review the proofs meticulously. Readers are encouraged to make necessary corrections while reading.

Overall Significance: "Tirth Mala Sangraha" is a valuable resource for understanding the history, geography, and devotional practices associated with Jain pilgrimage. It reflects the deep reverence Jain followers have for sacred sites and the traditions of undertaking arduous journeys to these places for spiritual merit and connection with the Tirthankaras. The compilation serves as a guide and inspiration for both contemporary and future pilgrims.