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Introduction to Shankheshwar Parshwanath Jain Tirth
Shri Shankheshwar Parshwanath Jain Tirth, located in Gujarat, India, is one of the most revered Jain temples. This sacred site is dedicated to Bhagwan Parshwanath, the 23rd Tirthankar in Jainism. The temple is renowned for its historical significance, architectural beauty, and associated miraculous legends. Let’s delve into this magnificent temple’s rich history and divine essence.
Mulnayak: The Idol of Shankheshwar Parshwanath Bhagwan
The main idol, or Mulnayak, of Shri Shankheshwar Parshwanath Jain Tirth, is a 182 cm high, white-colored idol of Bhagwan Shankheshwar Parshwanath in the Padmasana posture. This idol is one of the oldest representations of any Tirthankar.
Shankheshwar Tirth: The Heart of Shankheshwar Village
The temple is centrally located in Shankheshwar village, making it easily accessible for devotees and visitors. Its central location signifies its importance in the town and among Jain followers.
Historicity and Miracles of Shankheshwar Parshwanath Bhagwan
In the ascending half of the cosmic wheel of time, Ashadi Shravak, a devout follower, reached the Samvasaran of the ninth Tirthankar, Shri Damodarswami. He asked the Lord about his path to nirvana and liberation. Damodarswami predicted that Ashadi would become the prime disciple (Ganadhar) of the 23rd Tirthankar, Parshwanath, in the descending half of the cosmic wheel.
Ashadi Shravak created a beautiful idol of Bhagwan Parshwanath and installed it in a temple, where he worshipped it with utmost devotion. This idol was later taken to heaven, worshipped by gods, and eventually brought back to earth during the Mahabharata era by Lord Krishna. Krishna used the idol’s miraculous powers to cure his warriors, establishing the Shankheshwar Parshwanath temple.
Renovations and Restorations of Shankheshwar Jain Mandir
The temple has undergone several renovations throughout history:
- 1155 Vikram Era: Sajjan Shah, minister of King Sidhraj Jaisingh of Patan, renovated the temple under the guidance of Shri Devchandrasurishwarji Maharajsaheb.
- 1286 Vikram Era: Vastupal Tejpal renovated the temple under the guidance of Shri Vardhamansurisharji Maharaj Saheb, adding 52 small temples around the main structure.
- Fourteenth Century: The temple was destroyed by Muslim invaders, and the idol was hidden.
- Sixteenth Century: The idol was rediscovered, and a new temple was built under the guidance of Vijaysensurishvarji Maharaj Saheb.
- 1760 Vikram Era: The current temple was constructed, featuring intricate mirror work surrounded by 52 smaller temples.
Artistic Marvel and Sculptural Grandeur of Shankheshwar Temple Gujarat
The temple has artistic mirror work, beautiful summits, and intricate sculptures. It comprises an open square, a decorated square, a vast square, and two assembly halls. The temple complex also includes the idols of Bhagwan Bheedbhanjan Parshwanath and Bhagwan Ajitnath in smaller temples adjacent to the main idol.
Also Read Explore Jirawala Parshwanath: History, Miracles & Architecture
Shankheshwar Parshwanath Miracles and Pilgrimages
Shri Shankheshwar Parshwanath Jain Tirth is known for the miracles associated with its idol. Devotees believe that the idol can fulfill wishes and remove obstacles. Thousands of pilgrims visit the temple during special occasions, such as the tenth day of the dark half of the month of Posh and Diwali, when they observe a three-day fast.
Other Temples and Facilities at Shankheshwar Parshwanath Jain Tirth
The temple complex also includes:
- Agam Mandir
- The temple of 108 Parshvanath and Padmavati Devi
- Gurumandir
- Other temples within the vicinity
Accessibility and Accommodations for Shankheshwar Parshwanath Jain Tirth Visitors
Shankheshwar is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest railway stations are Harij, 10 kilometers away, and Viramgam, 62 kilometers away. The temple provides excellent boarding and lodging facilities, along with an ashtray, ayambilshala, Gyanashala, gyanbhandar, and a pathshala.
Scriptures and References to Shankheshwar Parshwanath Bhagwan
The temple is mentioned in several ancient scriptures, including “Shri Shatrunjay Mahatmay,” “Shri Neminath Charitra,” “Shri Vastupal Charitra,” “Shri Shankpur Kalp,” and “Shri Kola Parshvanath Kalp.” Temples dedicated to Shri Shankheshwar Parshwanath can be found in various cities like Ahmedabad, Palitana, Surat, Mumbai, Nagpur, Kolkata, Pune, and Chennai.
Contact Information for Shri Shankheshwar Parshwanath Jain Tirth
Trust: Sheth Jivandas Godidas Shankheshwar Parshvanath Jain Derasar Trust
Address: Post: Shankheshwar-384 246, Taluk: Sami, District: Patan, Gujarat, India
Phone: 02733 73514
Conclusion
Shri Shankheshwar Parshwanath Jain Tirth is a testament to Jain devotion, miraculous legends, and architectural splendor. This sacred site attracts devotees worldwide, offering them a glimpse into the divine and the miraculous.
For more on the 108 Parshwanath names, visit our Website. Discover the meanings and importance of each name and how to use them in your daily prayers.
