Titthogali Painnaya - Book Summary

Summary of "Titthogali Painnaya" (तित्थोगाली पइन्नय)

This Jain text, "Titthogali Painnaya" (meaning "Proclivities of Holy Places" or "Journeys of Holy Sites"), authored by Kalyanvijay and published by Shwetambar Jain Sangh, is a significant work that delves into the historical and geographical spread of Jainism. The text, meticulously researched, translated, and edited by Panas Kalyanvijay Ganivar Tha. Gajsingh Rathore, aims to provide a comprehensive account of the origins, duration, and disappearance of Jain Tirthas (holy sites) across various Jambudweepa and other realms.

Key Aspects and Content:

Thematic Focus: The core of the text revolves around the concept of "Tirthas" in Jainism. It explains how these holy sites emerge, flourish, and sometimes disappear across different continents (dvipa) and regions within the Jain cosmology. It meticulously details the temporal aspects of these Tirthas, correlating their appearance and disappearance with the cycles of time (Avasharpini and Utsarpini).
Cosmological Framework: The text operates within the Jain framework of cosmology, referring to Jambudweepa, Lavana Samudra (saltwater ocean), Jambudweepa, Dhataki Khanda, and Pushkarardha Dweepa. It provides detailed information about different regions within these continents and the specific timelines of the Tirthas within them.
Chronology and Cycles of Time: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to explaining the Jain concept of Kalachakra (time cycles), specifically the Avasharpini (descending cycle) and Utsarpini (ascending cycle). It elaborates on the six Aras (phases) within each cycle and the duration of these phases in years, calculated in terms of Palyopamas and Sagaropamas. This detailed chronological framework is crucial for understanding the temporal existence of Tirthas.
Life and Teachings of Tirthankaras: The text provides a biographical sketch of the 24 Tirthankaras, detailing their birthplaces, lineage, lifespan, the duration of their ascetic practices, the time of their Kevala Jnana (omniscience), the duration of their teachings, their Nirvana, and their liberation. It also mentions the number of their Ganadharas (chief disciples) and the specific Kalpavrikshas (celestial trees) associated with them.
Twelve Cycles of Tirthas: The text details the appearance and disappearance of Tirthas across twelve cycles, highlighting specific characteristics of each cycle and the Tirthas associated with them. This includes the emergence of ten major miracles during the Auspicious periods of each Tirthankara's lifetime.
Historical and Social Context: The text also touches upon the social and historical conditions during different eras and the impact of these conditions on the Jain Dharma and its practices. It describes the societal norms, human lifespan, and the general state of the world during various stages of the Kalachakra.
Scholarly and Editorial Endeavor: The extensive introduction by the editor, Panas Kalyanvijay Ji Maharaj, highlights the rarity and importance of the original text. He acknowledges the immense effort involved in deciphering and translating the ancient Prakrit text. The collaboration with Thakur Gajsinghji Rathore, and the eventual incorporation of corrections from Acharya Hastimalji Maharaj, underscore the rigorous scholarly approach taken in presenting this work. The mention of acquiring a copy from Acharya Rajendrasuriji Maharaj's collection further emphasizes the text's historical significance and the collaborative effort in its publication.
Legacy and Demise of the Editor: The publication notice also tragically notes the passing of Panas Kalyanvijay Ji Maharaj shortly after seeing the initial printed copies, emphasizing his dedication and the book's role as a part of his life's work.

In essence, "Titthogali Painnaya" is a monumental work that:

Provides a Jain cosmological and historical roadmap: It maps out the distribution and temporal cycles of holy sites within the Jain universe.
Offers a detailed chronicle of Tirthankaras: It presents a comprehensive overview of the lives and times of the 24 Tirthankaras.
Explains the Jain concept of time: It elaborates on the intricate workings of the Kalachakra and its impact on the rise and fall of Tirthas.
Serves as a foundational text: It provides invaluable information for scholars and practitioners interested in Jain history, geography, and cosmology.

The book represents a dedicated effort to preserve and disseminate vital knowledge about Jain Tirthas and their place within the grand sweep of Jain cosmic history.