Vividh Tirthkalpa Sachitra - Book Summary

This is a summary of the Jain text "Vividh Tirthkalpa Sachitra" by Jinprabhvijay, published by Ranjanvijay Jain Pustakalay, based on the provided pages.

Book Title: Vividh Tirthkalpa Sachitra (Various Tirthas with Pictures) Author: Acharya Shri Jinprabh Surishwarji M.S.A. Publisher: Shri Ranjanvijayji Jain Pustakalay, Malwada Translators: Muni Shri Ratnatrayavijayji M.S.A., Muni Shri Ratnajyotvijayji M.S.A.

Overall Purpose and Content:

The book "Vividh Tirthkalpa Sachitra" is a Gujarati translation and compilation of various Tirthas (sacred pilgrimage sites) authored by the renowned Jain scholar Acharya Jinprabh Surishwarji. The primary aim of this illustrated book is to provide detailed historical, geographical, and religious information about numerous Jain pilgrimage sites to a wider audience, particularly to foster devotion and understanding of these sacred places. The inclusion of illustrations aims to make the Tirthas more appealing and accessible, especially to younger readers. The text emphasizes the importance of visiting these Tirthas for spiritual purification and liberation from karmic bonds.

Key Sections and Features Highlighted in the Provided Pages:

Invocations and Dedications: The initial pages include invocations to important Jain figures like Gautam Swami and various Acharyas, followed by dedications and blessings from esteemed spiritual leaders of the Tapa Gaccha lineage. This highlights the reverence and spiritual lineage associated with the work.
Translators and Publishers: The translators, Muni Shri Ratnatrayavijayji M.S.A. and Muni Shri Ratnajyotvijayji M.S.A., and the publisher, Shri Ranjanvijayji Jain Pustakalay, are acknowledged for their significant contribution.
Illustrative Nature: The title itself, "Sachitra" (with pictures), and the mention of artist Jay Pancholi from Ahmedabad, along with the illustrations depicted in the pages (e.g., of Shrutunjay Tirth, Javad Sheth), confirm the book's visual aspect, designed to enhance the reader's experience.
Historical and Religious Significance of Tirthas: The text delves into the historical narratives and religious significance of various Jain Tirthas. Each "Kalpa" (section dedicated to a Tirth) aims to provide insights into:
- Origin and History: The origins of the Tirthas, often linked to significant events in the lives of Tirthankaras and important Jain figures.
- Miracles and Legends: Descriptions of miraculous occurrences, divine interventions, and legends associated with the Tirthas.
- Deities and Guardians: Mentions of guardian deities (Yakshas and Yakshinis) like Ambikadevi, Kapardiyaksh, and Dharanendra-Padmavati, who protect and are associated with these sacred sites.
- Pilgrimage Merits: The spiritual benefits and merits gained by visiting these Tirthas.
- Specific Rituals and Practices: Some sections detail specific rituals or practices associated with certain Tirthas.
Detailed Descriptions of Specific Tirthas (as seen in the provided excerpts):
- Shri Shatrunjay Tirth Kalpa: This section is extensive and detailed, describing the glories of Shatrunjay hill, its various names, the significance of its numerous Jinalayas (temples), and the immense spiritual merit obtained by worshipping there. It mentions the numerous Tirthankaras and Rishis who attained liberation from this sacred mountain. It also recounts stories of past rulers and devotees who undertook renovations and worship.
- Shri Raivatgiri Kalpa: Focuses on Mount Raivat (Girnar), a highly revered Tirth. It narrates stories related to Lord Neminath, including his renunciation and attainment of Kevalgyan, and the spiritual significance of the site. It also details legends involving Krishna and the Pandavas.
- Shri Ujjayant Tirth Kalpa: Describes Mount Ujjayant (Girnar), highlighting its spiritual importance, the presence of various medicinal plants, and legends associated with its divine protectors.
- Shri Shankhpur Parshvanath Kalpa: Details the story of an idol of Lord Parshvanath found in a shankh (conch shell) and its miraculous properties.
- Shri Hathinapur Tirth Kalpa: This section covers the ancient city of Hastinapur, known for its association with the Kuru dynasty, the birthplaces of Lord Shantinath, Kunthunath, and Aranath, and the legendary events involving the Pandavas and Lord Rishabhdev's first disciple, Shreyans Kumar.
- Shri Satyapur Tirth Kalpa: Discusses the Tirth of Satyapur (modern-day Sachor), highlighting its historical significance and the stories of devotion.
- Shri Ashtapadgiri Kalpa: Focuses on Mount Ashtapad, a mythical mountain considered the abode of liberation for many. It recounts the legends of Bharat Chakravarti's construction of temples and the spiritual prowess of the Rishis who attained salvation there.
- Shri Mithila Tirth Kalpa: Describes Mithila, the birthplace of Tirthankaras Lord Mallinath and Lord Neminath, and the events associated with them.
- Shri Koshambi Nagari Kalpa: Highlights Koshambi, known for its association with Lord Mahavir's teachings and the story of Chandanbala.
- Shri Ayodhya Nagari Kalpa: Details Ayodhya, the birthplace of many Tirthankaras and the revered land of Lord Rama, emphasizing its spiritual significance.
- Shri Apapa Nagari Kalpa: Covers Apapa Nagari (Pawapuri), the site of Lord Mahavir's Nirvana, and the origins of Diwali celebrations.
- Shri Koshambi Nagari Kalpa (Detailed): Provides further details about Koshambi, including its historical rulers and the legends associated with its sacred sites.
- Shri Kalikund Kukuteshwar Kalpa: Narrates the story of Lord Parshvanath at Kalikund and the legend of Kukuteshwar.
- Shri Anahilpur situated Arishtanemi Kalpa: Describes the Tirth of Anahilpur and its connection to Lord Arishtanemi, including legends of divine intervention.
- Shri Nachikpur Kalpa: Details the stories of attachment to worldly desires and their consequences, as exemplified by the life of a potter's son.
- Shri Kothang Vasan Kalpa: Discusses a story involving a potter, a divine intervention, and the establishment of a temple.
- Shri Falgiridhan Kalpa: Narrates a story of devotion and the challenges faced by a merchant's family.
- Shri Kanyanyniya Mahavir Pratima Kalpa: Focuses on the miraculous idol of Lord Mahavir at Kanyanyniya and its historical journey.
- Shri Kotishila Tirth Kalpa: Describes Kotishila, a site of immense spiritual significance where millions of ascetics attained liberation.
- Shri Amarkund Padmavati Devi Kalpa: Narrates the story of Goddess Padmavati and her devotion.
- Shri Vastupal Tejpal Mantri Kalpa: Recounts the pious deeds and extensive charitable works of the ministers Vastupal and Tejpal, highlighting their contribution to Jainism.
- Shri Mahavir Ganadhar Kalpa: Details the lives and spiritual accomplishments of Lord Mahavir's eleven Ganadharas.
- Shri Panchkalyanak Stavan: A devotional hymn celebrating the five auspicious events in the lives of Tirthankaras.
- Shri Acharya Jinprabh Suri's Role: The text acknowledges Acharya Jinprabh Suri's prolific work and his effort to compile and present this knowledge. The translators also mention receiving guidance from various Acharyas.
- Historical Context: The introduction and preface provide historical context about Acharya Jinprabh Suri's life and times, mentioning his interactions with rulers and his efforts to protect Jain heritage during periods of turmoil.

Key Themes:

Devotion and Spirituality: The book aims to inspire devotion among Jains by detailing the sacredness of the Tirthas and the spiritual journeys of Tirthankaras and other holy figures.
Historical Preservation: It serves as a repository of historical narratives and traditions related to Jainism, preserving them for future generations.
Moral and Ethical Guidance: The stories often convey moral lessons and emphasize the importance of righteous conduct, compassion, and detachment from worldly pleasures.
Accessibility of Knowledge: By providing Gujarati translations and illustrations, the book makes complex Jain philosophy and history accessible to a broader audience.

In essence, "Vividh Tirthkalpa Sachitra" is a comprehensive and beautifully illustrated guide to Jain pilgrimage sites, intended to deepen the reader's understanding, faith, and connection to these sacred places and the spiritual figures associated with them.