Explore the rich history and spiritual significance of Shravasti Teerth, a renowned Jain Tirthsthaan located in Uttar Pradesh. This sacred site, also referred to as Shri Digambar Jain Shravasti Teerth Kshetra, is deeply rooted in Jain traditions and holds immense historical and religious importance.
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About Shravasti Teerth
Shravasti is a place of great historical and spiritual significance in Jainism. It is revered for the Garbha, Janma, Tapa, and Gyan Kalyankas of Bhagwan Sambhavnath, the 3rd Teerthankara. This city, once known for its prosperity and status as a center of trade and education, also witnessed the first Samavsharan of Bhagwan Sambhavnath, where his Divya Dhwani (divine discourse) illuminated the path of Moksha for countless souls.
Other Key Events:
- Bhagwan Mahaveer‘s Samavsharan visited Shravasti multiple times, and he spent several Chaturmaas here.
- Muni Keshi (successor of Bhagwan Parshvanath) met Gautam Swami, Bhagwan Mahaveer’s principal Ganadhara, in Shravasti for a significant spiritual dialogue.
- King Jitshatru’s son, Mrigdwaj, and Nagdatta, a businessman from Shravasti, attained salvation here.
This city was also a focal point for other faiths. Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, practiced penance here for 15 years under a tree, which remains a key landmark.
Historical Prosperity and Decline
Shravasti thrived as a prosperous city until the 12th-13th century. King Suheldev, a Jain ruler and worshipper of Bhagwan Sambhavnath, defended Shravasti against invasions, including the army of Sayyed Salar Masood Gazi in 1034. However, subsequent attacks, including those by Alauddin Khilji, led to the city’s decline. Once a hub of Jainism, the region’s temples, stupas, and Vihars were destroyed, leaving behind ruins spread across Sahet and Mahet.
Archaeological Significance
Shravasti’s ruins reveal its ancient glory as a Jain pilgrimage center. Ashoka the Great and his grandson King Samprati built numerous temples, stupas, and Vihars here. Excavations have uncovered:
- Remains of Jain temples and stupas dating from 4th Century BCE to 12th Century CE.
- Sobhnath Temple, believed to house an underground Jain temple with idols of Bhagwan Rishabhadeo and other Teerthankaras.
- Stone idols carved with intricate artistry, including a 1000-year-old image of Bhagwan Rishabhadeo with Yakshas, lions, and an ox (symbolizing Rishabhadeo).
Key Temples at Shravasti
1. Sobhnath Temple
- Features an Iranian-style dome replacing the traditional spire.
- Houses an idol of Bhagwan Rishabhadeo carved on a flat stone, surrounded by representations of other Teerthankaras.
2. Bhagwan Sambhavnath Temple
- Reverenced in 1966 during a Panch Kalyanka Pratishtha Mahotsava.
- Principal Deity: Bhagwan Sambhavnath (3 ft 9 in white idol in seating posture).
- The idol is considered miraculous and highly revered.
3. Bhagwan Sambhavnath Chaubesee Mandir
- Reverenced in 1995, this temple is adorned with intricate spires and houses idols of all 24 Teerthankaras.
- The temple stands 84 feet high, symbolizing Jain architectural excellence.
Other Temples:
- Shwetambar Jain Temple
- Buddhist temples and stupas, including those built by the governments of Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, and Japan.
Shravasti: A Bauddha Teerth
Shravasti is also significant in Buddhism, housing the Jetavana Vihar built by Seth Sudatta and Vishakha. Key landmarks include a 3.5-ton gong installed by Japan and Angulimal’s caves.
Annual Gatherings at Shravasti
- Bhagwan Sambhavnath Jayanti and Rathyatra: Kartik Shukla 15
- Bhagwan Sambhavnath Nirvanotsava: Chaitra Shukla 6
These events attract devotees from all over the world.
Facilities for Pilgrims
- Digambar Jain Dharmashala: 20 normal rooms and 20 semi-deluxe rooms.
- Shwetambar Jain Dharmashala: 10 normal rooms and 10 semi-deluxe rooms.
- Guest House: 5 semi-deluxe rooms.
- Mess facility and provisions for utensils, beds, and tents.
- A three-star hotel with modern amenities.
Accessibility
- By Road: Regular buses from Lucknow’s KesarBag Bus Stand. Taxis and buses from Bahraich are also available.
- By Air: Lucknow Airport is the nearest.
- Nearby Places:
- Trilokpur (120 km)
- Ayodhya (140 km)
Nearby Attractions
- Bauddha Temples by Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, and China.
- Angulimal’s Caves: A historical site linked to the life of Gautam Buddha.
Experience Spiritual Bliss at Shri Digambar Jain Shravasti Teerth Kshetra
Shravasti Teerth offers an unparalleled spiritual journey through its rich history, sacred temples, and serene environment. Whether you’re exploring Jain heritage or seeking tranquility, Shri Digambar Jain Shravasti Teerth Kshetra is a destination that promises peace and enlightenment.
