Tithi Tap Manikyamala - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Tithi Tap Manikyamala" by Hansavijay, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Tithi Tap Manikyamala (A Garland of Jewels of Observances on Auspicious Days)

Author: Hansavijay (often referred to as Shri Hansavijayji Maharaj)

Publisher: Shri Hansavijayji Jain Library

Overall Theme: The book is a collection of devotional songs and hymns (stanzas, often in poetic form) celebrating various tapas (ascetic practices and vows) observed on specific auspicious tithis (lunar days) in Jainism. It emphasizes the spiritual benefits and merits of performing these observances, often through illustrative stories and praises of Jain Tirthankaras and prominent figures.

Key Content Areas and Themes:

Introduction and Dedication: The initial pages (1-5) introduce the book and its publisher. Page 3 mentions the author, Hansavijayji, as a respected saint who has traveled extensively and benefited many. Page 5 is a dedication to Shrimati Rajimai, a devout woman, for her strong faith, extensive pilgrimages, and performance of various vows and observances, particularly highlighting her support for religious activities.
Praise of Tirthas and Tirthankaras:
- Shri Siddhachal Chittayavandan (Page 6): This section is a devotional praise (in Harigit meter) of Siddhachal (Shikharji), a major Jain pilgrimage site, and its association with Rishabhdev (Adinath) and other ascetics. It recounts the historical significance of the place and the liberation of numerous ascetics there.
- Praise of the Panch Parmeshthi (Page 7): A hymn dedicated to the five supreme beings in Jainism: Arihants, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Sadhus.
Specific Tithi Tap Stanzas: The core of the book is dedicated to praising and describing the significance of various tapas observed on specific lunar days.
- Beej Tithi Stavan (Page 7-9): This section focuses on the tapas observed on the second lunar day (Beej). It mentions the auspiciousness of this day for the births, renunciations, or nirvana (liberation) of several Tirthankaras, including Vasupujya, Abhinandana, and Sumati Jin. It describes the merit gained from observing this tapas, connecting it to overcoming karma and achieving liberation. The story of Bhavishyadatta and his brother is told in relation to the tapas of Panchami.
- Shri Saubhagya Panchami Tapa Stavan (Page 9-14): This extensive section is dedicated to the tapas of Panchami (the fifth lunar day). It highlights its significance for spiritual purity, intellect, and perseverance. The story of Bhavishyadatta, his brother Bandhudatta, their separation, Bhavishyadatta's hardships, his encounters with a demon and a celestial being, his marriage to a princess, and his eventual return to his mother is narrated. The story emphasizes the power of Panchami vows in overcoming adversity and reuniting with loved ones. It also mentions the observance of Panchami by the mother, Kamalshri, and its positive outcomes. The section concludes with the renunciation of Bhavishyadatta and his family, and their eventual attainment of liberation.
- Shri Ashtami Tapa Stavan (Page 16-18): This section is devoted to the tapas of Ashtami (the eighth lunar day). It includes a story about Ratnashekhar, a minister, and his queen, who observed this tapas. The narrative involves a celestial being (dev) and the minister's devotion. It highlights the benefits of observing Ashtami, such as overcoming karmic obstacles and achieving good fortune. It also mentions the observance of Ashtami by a merchant named Dhanadhya and the consequences of its violation. The section lists the Tirthankaras associated with Ashtami and its significance for spiritual merit.
- Shri Ekadashi Tapa Stavan (Page 19-20): This section focuses on the tapas of Ekadashi (the eleventh lunar day), particularly in relation to Neminath (Nemi). It describes the practice of observing Ekadashi with ekasana (eating one meal a day) and the benefits of japa (chanting) and devotion. It also references the importance of honoring Sadhus and the practice of vatsalya (benevolence).
- Shri Rohini Nav Tapa Stavan (Page 20-23): This section is dedicated to the tapas of Rohini (the star Rohini) and its observance on certain lunar days. It recounts the story of King Simhasen and his son, who faced misfortune due to past karma. The narrative emphasizes how observing the Rohini tapas led to the purification of the body and spiritual liberation. It traces the transmigration of souls, highlighting the consequences of actions and the efficacy of tapas. The story connects the observance to the story of Prince Ashokchandra and his marriage.
- Shri Vishasthanak Tapa Stavan (Page 23-25): This section discusses the tapas of Vishasthanak, which involves the adoration of the five holy vows and the six essential duties. It explains that observing these tapas leads to the attainment of the Tirthankara pada (status) and liberation. The text praises the interconnectedness of various spiritual practices and their role in overcoming suffering.
- Shri Navpad Stavan (Page 25-26): This section is dedicated to the Navpad (the nine supreme entities in Jainism: Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu, Samyak Darshan, Samyak Gyan, Samyak Charitra, and Tap). It emphasizes the importance of meditating on and worshipping these nine entities for spiritual progress and ultimate liberation. The text highlights the blessings that come from such devotion.
- Shri Siddhachakra Stavan (Page 26-27): This is a devotional praise of the Siddhachakra, a sacred diagram in Jainism representing the Navpad. It describes the rituals and practices associated with its worship, such as chanting mantras, performing circumambulations, and offering obeisance. The text connects the worship of Siddhachakra to the stories of virtuous individuals like King Shripal and Queen Mayanasundari, who attained liberation through its observance.
- Shri Shatrunjay Tirth Sthuti and other Tirth Stanzas (Page 28-35): Several sections are dedicated to praising Jain pilgrimage sites, particularly Shatrunjay (Siddhachal). These include:
  - Shri Siddhachala Mandala Vinati (Page 28-29): A heartfelt plea and prayer to Adinath, the first Tirthankara, at Siddhachal.
  - Shri Rayan Paglanu Stavan (Page 29-30): A stanza praising the footprints of a Tirthankara, likely near a Rayan tree, signifying a sacred place.
  - Pundarik Stavan (Page 30): A hymn dedicated to Pundarik, a prominent disciple of Rishabhdev, and the Pundarik hill, a sacred site.
  - Shri Shanthinath Jin Stavan (Page 30-31): A stanza praising Shanthinath, the 16th Tirthankara, and his liberation at Shikharji.
  - Shri Siddhachalnu Stavan (Page 31-32): A general praise of Siddhachal as a place of immense spiritual merit and liberation.
  - Shri Kesariyaji nu Stavan (Page 32-33): A stanza dedicated to Lord Kesariyaji, a significant Jain deity or manifestation, often associated with Kesariyaji Tirth.
  - Shri Siddhachal Tirth Stavan (Page 33-34): Another praise of Siddhachal, emphasizing its role in guiding devotees towards spiritual realization.
  - Shri Shatrunjay Tirthastuti (Page 34): A Sanskrit verse praising Shatrunjay.
  - Shri Kathmandan Shri Adhinath Jin Stavam (Page 34-35): Praise of Adinath at Kathmandu, highlighting his role in bringing prosperity and spiritual guidance.
  - Shri Dhandhukamandhan Shri Adhinath Stavam (Page 35-36): Praise of Adinath at Dhandhuka, emphasizing his eternal nature and the path to liberation.
  - Shri Kesariyaji Parshvanath Jinastavan (Page 38-39): Praise of Kesariyaji Parshvanath at Bhandak, highlighting the glory of the pilgrimage site and the deity's compassionate nature.
Upadhan Stavan (Page 36-37): This section describes Upadhan, a specific type of ascetic observance that involves rituals and recitation of scriptures. It outlines the different stages and components of this tapas, emphasizing its role in purification and spiritual advancement.
Bhavapuja Ratvan (Page 37-38): This is a hymn dedicated to "Bhavapuja" – worship of the pure soul. It describes this as the highest form of worship, performed by enlightened Jain monks, involving internal devotion and understanding of the self.
Colophon and Information (Page 39-40): The last pages provide information about where to purchase the book and other related publications by the Shri Hansavijayji Jain Library.

Overall Message and Purpose:

"Tithi Tap Manikyamala" serves as a guide and inspiration for Jains to engage in various tapas and observances on auspicious lunar days. It aims to:

Educate: Inform readers about the significance of specific tithis and the associated spiritual practices.
Inspire: Motivate readers to perform these tapas by highlighting their benefits and the stories of those who have achieved spiritual heights through them.
Promote Devotion: Foster a deeper connection to Jain deities, Tirthankaras, and pilgrimage sites through devotional hymns and prayers.
Emphasize Karma and Liberation: Reinforce the Jain principles of karma, its consequences, and the ultimate goal of liberation (moksha) through righteous conduct and asceticism.

The book is rich in devotional poetry and narrative, making the study of Jain ascetic practices accessible and engaging for its readers.