Tritirthi

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Tritirthi" by Rina Jain, focusing on the three holy sites of Shatrunjaya, Girnar, and Shankheshwar, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Tritirthi (त्रितीर्थी) Author: Rina Jain Publisher: Prakrit Bharti Academy, Jaipur Content Focus: Detailed introduction, history, and significance of three major Jain pilgrimage sites: Shatrunjaya (Shalishikhara/Siddhachala), Girnar (Raivatgiri), and Shankheshwar.

Overall Purpose and Introduction (Pages 5-6):

The book is part of a series by Prakrit Bharti Academy aimed at making pilgrimage site information accessible to a wider audience, especially the youth, who may find traditional texts difficult to understand. The goal is to provide concise, inspirational, and informative content for pilgrims before their journeys, fostering a deeper connection with the holy sites. It highlights that knowing a place geographically and historically enhances the spiritual experience of the pilgrimage. The book compiles stories related to the primary Tirthankaras associated with these sites and their sacred legends.

The Concept of Tirth in Jainism (Pages 7-8):

The introduction delves into the meaning of "Tirth" in Jainism. A Tirth is a place or entity that helps one cross the ocean of worldly existence (samsara) and reach the shore of liberation (moksha). Tirthankaras, the founders of the Chaturvidh Sangh (four-fold monastic community), are paramount Tirths as they illuminate the path of Dharma. Tirths are also considered sacred places associated with the birth, initiation, enlightenment, and nirvana of Tirthankaras and other revered souls. The text mentions that Tirths are categorized as stationary (sthavar) and movable (jangam).

Shatrunjaya Tirth (Pages 17-68):

• Location: Situated in Gujarat, in the Palitana area of Bhavnagar district. It is considered an eternal Tirth (Shashvat Tirth) and the most sacred and revered among Jain Tirths.
• Significance:
  • It is considered the crown of Saurashtra.
  • Its 108 names are listed, signifying its immense importance and multifarious virtues.
  • It is stated to be the first Tirth of this evolutionary cycle (avasarpini) that grants liberation.
  • The book details its glorious past, its expansion and contraction through different Yugas (epochs), and its 21 prominent peaks.
  • It emphasizes the immense spiritual merit gained by worshipping Lord Adinath, whose foot-prints are present there. Offerings like bathing the idol, applying sandalwood, using perfumes, offering flowers, and incense are described with their spiritual rewards.
  • The text highlights the importance of worshipping Sadhus (monks) at this Tirth.
  • Various virtues like detachment, devotion, charity, and mindfulness are encouraged for pilgrims.
• Key Features:
  • Shatrunjaya River: Described as more meritorious than the Ganges, its waters purify sins and grant physical and mental well-being.
  • Rayana Tree: Associated with Lord Rishabhanatha, it is considered a sacred site itself, offering divine milk-like streams that dispel ignorance. Stories illustrate its miraculous powers.
  • Sagar King's Pilgrimage: A detailed account of King Sagar's pilgrimage with a Sangh (community), his interaction with Indra, and the subsequent events involving Bhagirath and the Ganga river are narrated. It also mentions the protection of the Tirth.
  • Seventeen Renovations (Uddhars): The text lists the 17 major renovations of the Shatrunjaya Tirth, performed by various kings, Tirthankaras, and devout individuals across different epochs.
  • Tales of Merit: Stories like that of the Brahmin with leprosy being cured by worshipping Shatrunjaya, and the story of King Trivikrama and his encounters with the soul of a bird he killed, illustrate the Tirth's power to absolve sins and grant spiritual merit. The story of Bharat and Bahubali's conflict and eventual reconciliation is also recounted, emphasizing the Tirth's connection to these epic events.
  • Spiritual Practices: Detailed descriptions are given for performing the "Ninnavve Yatra" (99 circumambulations) and the "Shatrunjaya Tap," including specific rituals, fasts (like Aattam and Chhath), repetitions of prayers (Navkar Mantra), and devotional practices. The significance of Chaitri Purnima is also highlighted.

Girnar Tirth (Pages 69-107):

• Location: Located in the Junagadh district of Gujarat. It is considered the fifth peak of Shatrunjaya and is revered for its association with Tirthankaras.
• Significance:
  • Girnar is considered eternal like Shatrunjaya. It is believed to grant knowledge of the fifth stage (kevalgyan).
  • It is a place where many Tirthankaras have attained enlightenment and nirvana. The book lists Tirthankaras from previous and future cycles who have or will have their Kalyanakas (auspicious events) here.
  • Lord Neminatha, the 22nd Tirthankara, attained initiation and kevalgyan here, and his nirvana also occurred on Girnar.
  • Many souls, including Lord Krishna's relatives and Sadhvi Rajimati, attained liberation here.
  • Lord Krishna himself earned Tirthankara-nama karma through his devotion to this Tirth and will become the 12th Tirthankara of the next cycle.
  • The text mentions the miraculous properties of Girnar's soil and its Tirths.
  • It highlights the presence of ancient Jain caves and sculptures, dating back to the early centuries CE.
• Key Features:
  • Lord Neminatha's Presence: The book extensively details the life and Kalyanakas of Lord Neminatha, particularly his association with Girnar.
  • Ancient Idol: The main idol of Lord Neminatha is described as being ancient, with a long history of worship by gods and humans.
  • Pilgrimage Route: A detailed description of the pilgrimage path is provided, mentioning various important spots, temples, statues, and landmarks like the Hanuman Temple, the Pandas' Devkuli, Chhaniya Pyau, Khodiaar Maa's place, and numerous other structures and significant points along the ascent.
  • Renovations and Devotees: The role of important individuals like Ambada Shravaka, Sajjan Mantri, Bhima Sathariya, Vastupal-Tejpala, and others in renovating and maintaining the Tirth's temples is highlighted.
  • Legend of Ratnasara: A significant narrative recounts how Ratnasara, a devout Shravaka, was instrumental in the renovation and re-consecration of a damaged idol of Lord Neminatha, demonstrating immense devotion and overcoming challenges.
  • Sahsramravan: This sacred grove is identified as the place where Lord Neminatha attained Kevalgyan and performed his first and last Samavsaran. It houses ancient temples and idols.
  • Gajpad Kund: This sacred reservoir is renowned for its purifying waters, believed to grant liberation. It is said to have been created by Lord Indra's elephant, Airavata, for Lord Neminatha's Abhishek.
  • 99 Girnar Yatra: The book outlines the method for performing 99 circumambulations of Girnar, including specific temples to visit and prayers to recite, emphasizing its spiritual benefits.

Shankheshwar Tirth (Pages 108-134):

• Location: Situated in Gujarat, in the Mehsana district. It is known for its ancient idol of Lord Parshvanatha.
• Significance:
  • It houses the most ancient idol of Lord Parshvanatha, worshipped for millions of years by deities and humans, granting immense Siddhis.
  • The idol is described as white, very attractive, and adorned with seven divine hoods of a serpent, emanating a powerful aura.
  • The history of the idol is traced through various celestial realms and devotees, underscoring its divine origin and immense spiritual power.
  • The Tirth has a long history of renovations and protections from invaders, highlighting the devotion of its followers.
• Key Features:
  • Lord Parshvanatha's Idol: The idol's antiquity and its journey through various eras and devotees, from its creation by a Shravaka to its worship by gods and kings, are detailed.
  • Historical Narratives: The text recounts the story of the idol being worshipped by Lord Krishna during his battle with Jarashindh, leading to his victory and the establishment of Shankheshwar city.
  • Renovations and Protection: The book describes the continuous efforts of various saints and kings, including Jayasinh Siddharaja, Vastupal-Tejpala, and Shri Vijayalabh Suri, in renovating and protecting the Tirth and its idol from destruction by invaders.
  • Lord Parshvanatha's Life: A biographical sketch of Lord Parshvanatha is provided, including details about his birth, parents, name, childhood, his rivalry with Kamatha (as Shambara Deva), the miracles associated with him (like the serpent hoods protecting him), and the significance of the Navkar Mantra.
  • The Serpent's Story: The tale of Lord Parshvanatha saving a serpent from being burned by the tapasya of Kamatha's soul is narrated, highlighting the Lord's compassion and the serpent's subsequent rebirth as Dharanendra, the king of Nagas.
  • Dharanendra and Padmavati: The role of Dharanendra and his consort Padmavati in protecting Lord Parshvanatha during the उपसर्ग (adversity) caused by Kamatha is emphasized, explaining their association as guardian deities.
  • 108 Names of Parshvanatha: A list of 108 names of Lord Parshvanatha, associated with various places, is provided.
  • Daily Worship: Recommendations for daily worship and practices at the Tirth are included.

Contact Information:

The book concludes with contact information for various Jain Dharamshalas (resthouses) and pilgrimage sites associated with Shatrunjaya, Girnar, and Shankheshwar, facilitating arrangements for visitors.

In summary, "Tritirthi" serves as a valuable guide for Jain pilgrims, offering a blend of historical facts, mythological narratives, and spiritual guidance for these three sacred sites, aiming to deepen their faith and understanding of Jain heritage.