Table of Contents
Introduction to Girnarji Jain Tirth
Girnarji, also known as Girnar Jain Tirth, is a prominent pilgrimage site in Gujarat, revered by both Shri Digambar Jain and Shwetambar Jain communities. This sacred place is associated with the 22nd Tirthankara Bhagwan Neminath and holds spiritual significance due to events like his Diksha, Gyan, and Moksha Kalyanka. With a history of saints, monks, and scholars achieving enlightenment here, Girnar stands as a symbol of faith and salvation.
History and Significance of Girnar Jain Temples
The Neminath Jain Temple, Girnar is one of the oldest in the region. Girnarji Siddha Kshetra is also known for being the place where over 72 crore Munis attained moksha, including Pradyumna Kumar, Shambhu Kumar, and Aniruddha Kumar, the sons of Shri Krishna. Acharya Bhadrabahu and Kund-Kund Acharya, among other Jain saints, also visited Girnar.
In the Chandra Gupha (Cave), Muni Pushpadanta and Muni Bhootbali composed the sacred Jain text, Shat Khand Agam. The site known as Siddha Shila remains revered for the attainment of spiritual perfection by these saints, including Bhagwan Neminath.
Tonks of Girnar: A Spiritual Journey
- First Tonk:
After ascending 3 km, visitors arrive at Rajul Gupha, where ancient idols of Rajul and Rathnemi are worshipped. This area also hosts a Digambar Jain Dharmashala with temples and foot images of Acharya Kund-Kund and the Panch Parmeshthi. - Second Tonk:
This is the nirvana spot of Aniruddha Kumar. It also has a temple of Ambadevi, which has shifted from Jain to Hindu possession over time. - Third Tonk:
Visitors find the nirvana place of Shambhu Kumar. Nearby, temples built by the Hindu community have emerged. - Fourth Tonk:
Reaching this tonk is challenging, but it marks the nirvana spot of Pradyumna Kumar. His foot images are worshipped here. - Fifth Tonk:
The final tonk is the salvation site of Bhagwan Neminath. The ancient foot images of Neminath are installed under an umbrella, but Hindus believe these to be of Dattatreya.
Neminath Jain Temple in the Valley
The main temple at the base of Girnar is the Neminath Digambar Jain Temple, featuring a 4-foot black Padmasana idol of Bhagwan Neminath. Surrounding this temple are smaller altars dedicated to Pradyumna Kumar, Shambhu Kumar, and other Tirthankaras. The site is adorned with a white marble dignity column, adding to its spiritual grandeur.
Natural Beauty and Accessibility of Girnar Jain Tirth
Located on a hill, Girnarji Jain Tirth offers a serene and beautiful environment, ideal for meditation and reflection. The path to the temples includes well-constructed stairs and resting points, making it accessible for pilgrims.
Facilities for Pilgrims
- Dharmashalas with food and lodging facilities are available both at the valley and on the hill.
- Water flows from a Gomukh, forming small ponds, adding to the scenic beauty.
How to Reach Girnar Jain Temples
- By Road: Buses from Ahmedabad and nearby cities connect to Junagadh. Auto-rickshaws are available from Junagadh to Girnar (6 km).
- By Rail: Junagadh Railway Station is just 6 km away.
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Rajkot, 100 km from Girnar.
Importance of Girnar for Jains
The importance of Girnar for Jains lies in its association with Bhagwan Neminath’s life events and the historical significance of saints achieving moksha. The temples attract devotees from across India, regardless of sect, including Digambars, Shwetambars, and Hindus. However, Jains generally avoid visiting Girnar during Hindu fairs, such as the Kartik Purnima celebrations and Maha Shivratri festivals.
Conclusion
The Girnar Jain temples, especially the Neminath Jain Temple, offer a spiritually enriching experience for pilgrims. With a history deeply rooted in Jain tirth traditions, Girnar continues to inspire devotees on their path to enlightenment. Whether you are a follower of Jainism or simply interested in historical sites, Girnarji’s beauty and significance are unmatched.
