Yatindravihar Digdarshan Part 01

This is a comprehensive summary of "Yatindravihar Digdarshan Part 01" by Yatindravijay, published by Saudharm Bruhat Tapagacchiya Shwetambar Jain Sangh. The book, a part of the Shri Rajendra Suri Jain Granth Mala, was first published in Vikram Samvat 1986 (1929 CE) and details the extensive travels (vihar) of Muni Shri Yatindravijayji Maharaj across various regions of India.

The book is primarily a travelogue and directory that meticulously documents the Jain heritage and communities encountered during the Muni's extensive journeys. It serves as a guide for future monks and nuns undertaking similar spiritual expeditions and as a historical record for Jain scholars and enthusiasts.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects covered in the initial pages:

• Title and Author: The book is titled "Shriyatindravihar Digdarshan" (Part 01), compiled and explained by Gyankalashacharyopadhya Muni Shri Yatindravijayji Maharaj.
• Publisher and Series: It is published by the Shri Saudharm Bruhat Tapagacchiya Shwetambar Jain Sangh as part of the Shri Rajendra Suri Jain Granth Mala, volume 21.
• Dedication (Page 3): The author humbly dedicates this work to his revered Gurudev, the late Shri Vijay Rajendra Surishwarji Maharaj. He praises his Gurudev for renouncing worldly attachments, propagating the principles of Lord Mahavir, upholding strict adherence to scriptural practices, and delivering numerous souls from the clutches of false interpretations of Jainism.
• Author's Biography (Page 4): It provides a brief note on Muni Shri Yatindravijayji Maharaj, mentioning his birth year (1940 according to his spiritual lineage, likely in the context of his guru's era) and initiation year (1954).
• Table of Contents/Index (Pages 6-10): This extensive section provides an alphabetical listing of numerous villages, towns, and pilgrimage sites that were visited during the described Vihar. For each location, it notes the "Kosh" (likely distance in Yojana or similar unit), the number of Jain households, the presence of Jain temples (Desaras), and the dates of stay. This index is crucial for understanding the geographical scope of the Vihar.
• Introduction to the Importance of Reading and Study (Page 11): This section emphasizes the value of reading and contemplating great scriptures, likening good books to true friends that dispel worries, help control negative emotions, and foster an enthusiastic life. It highlights that all knowledge is contained within books and that a home without reading and contemplation suffers from discord, laziness, and immorality. The author encourages emulating the studious habits of people in Europe, America, and Japan as a sign of progress.
• The Significance of Vihar (Travel) (Pages 12-17):
  • Spiritual and Intellectual Growth: The text begins by quoting ancient scriptures emphasizing that travel and exploration reveal diverse wonders, help distinguish between the virtuous and the wicked, and promote self-development.
  • Critique of Stagnation: It strongly advocates for the prescribed practice of vihar (travel) for Jain monks and nuns during the eight months outside the monsoon season. Monks who remain confined to a single village or upashraya (monastic residence) are criticized for being like frogs in a well, unaware of the true realities of the world. Such stagnation is seen as detrimental to their vows and spiritual progress, making them a burden on society.
  • Societal Responsibility: The author argues that regular and widespread vihar is essential for understanding the spiritual, religious, and economic conditions of Jain communities in various places. This knowledge is necessary for their upliftment.
  • Historical Evidence: The text points to historical records, copper plates, inscriptions, and donation documents as proof of the benefits of vihar. These ancient artifacts reveal the economic, religious, and spiritual strength of past generations, inspiring present-day practices.
  • Modern Scholars' Views: It cites the opinion of Mr. Vincent Smith, a Western scholar, who acknowledges the vastness of Jainism's historical reach, noting its past prevalence in regions where it is now scarce. This reinforces the author's argument for the need to explore and document Jain heritage.
  • Call to Action: The author urges modern monks and nuns to record details of the villages they visit during their vihar. This practice would greatly contribute to historical literature and bring hidden information to light.
• Detailed Travelogue/Directory (Pages 17-255): This is the core of the book, systematically listing the journey of Muni Shri Yatindravijayji Maharaj. It provides detailed information about numerous villages and towns visited, including:
  • Names of villages and towns.
  • Distances ("Kosh") between locations.
  • Number of Jain households.
  • Number of Jain temples (Jinalayas/Desaras).
  • Specific details about the temples, including the presiding deities, age of the idols, architectural features, inscriptions (with Sanskrit verses and Hindi translations), and historical anecdotes.
  • Information about the Jain community in each place, their adherence to religious practices, and the facilities available for monks and nuns (e.g., Dharmashalas, Upashrayas).
  • The book covers an immense geographical area, documenting Jain presence and heritage across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Kathiawar, and parts of Madhya Pradesh.
• Appendices (Parishisht):
  • Appendix 1: Lists villages near Tharad that were not covered in the main narrative, with brief descriptions and their significance as pilgrimage sites.
  • Appendix 2: Provides Hindi translations of Sanskrit inscriptions and commendatory verses found in the temples visited during the Vihar. This is a valuable resource for understanding the historical context and devotional sentiments associated with these sites.
  • Appendix 3: Offers detailed information about Jain temples and idols in Abu (Arbudgiri), highlighting the artistry and historical significance of places like Vimal Vasahi and Lunag Vasahi. It also provides details on temples in Sirohi and other nearby locations.

Overall Purpose and Significance:

"Yatindravihar Digdarshan Part 01" is a monumental work that meticulously documents the rich Jain tradition and the extensive missionary work of Jain ascetics. It serves as:

1. A Historical Chronicle: It preserves valuable information about the spread of Jainism, the condition of Jain communities, and the existence of ancient temples and idols at specific times.
2. A Practical Guide: It provides practical information for Jain monks and nuns planning their Vihars, including distances, community details, and available facilities.
3. A Source of Inspiration: By detailing the devotion and efforts of past generations in preserving and spreading Jainism, it aims to inspire the current and future generations.
4. A Linguistic and Cultural Resource: The inclusion of inscriptions and their translations offers insights into the historical usage of languages and religious practices.

The book is characterized by its extraordinary detail, covering hundreds of locations and providing a vast amount of information about Jainism's footprint across a significant part of India.