Vidyasagar.Guru

1. Who was Shri Gyansagar Ji Maharaj ? The first disciple of Acharya Shri Shantisagar ji was Acharya Shri Veersagar ji, the first disciple of Acharya Shri Veersagar ji was Acharya Shri Shivsagar ji and the first disciple of Acharya Shri Shivsagar ji was Acharya Shri Gyansagar ji. 2. What is the general introduction of Acharya Shri Gyansagar ji ? His former name - Bhooramalji Second name - Shantikumar Mother - Smt. Ghritvari Devi Father - Shri Chaturbhuj Chhabra Grand Mother - Smt. Gatto Devi Grand Father - Shri Sukhdev ji Brother - They were total five brothers - Chhaganlal, Bhooramal, Gangaprasad, Gourilal and Devidutta Birth - Vikram Samvat, 1948, Christian era, 1891 Place - Ranoli, District - Seekar (Rajasthan) Death of the father - In the year 1902 Education - Primary education in a village school and the education of Shastri level in Syadvad Mahavidylaya, Banaras 3. How the earlier life of Acharya Shri Gyansagar ji had been ? It is said that the goddess of wealth and goddess of knowledge do not live together. This saying did happen with Gyansagar ji in toto. He received elementary education in a village primary school. Due to want of means, he did not prosecute his further study and along with his elder brother arrived at Gaya for search of some work, there began to work in a Seth's shop for earning the livlihood, but by mind he wanted to study further. By chance, students of Syadvad Vidhyalaya came Gaya for taking part in some celebration. Observing their very effective 1. i.e. Gyansagar Ji Maharaj programmes, Bhooramal ji thought of going to Varansi for study. Considering his earnest intence desire, his elder brother permitted him to go to Varansi. He used to sell towels on the bank of river Ganges for arranging money for the expenses on study and food, and used to meet this expenditure from the income thus earned. Afterwards some body told him that he will get the expenses from the college, but Bhooramalji refused being a person of leading a self-support life. Passing out Shashtri examination from Varansi, he deeply studied several treatises of Sanskrit grammar, literature, doctrines / theories and spiritual texts. After returning from Banaras, he composed several treatises in Sanskrit & Hindi by reflecting, writing and careful study of literary works with great perseverance. In the modern century, his name deserves special mention among learned who have kept alive the tradition of composition of epics in the Sanskrit language. Great learned of Kashi have reacted saying "It is a great pleasure that even in this period there exists learned of such a superior status who can confront with poets like Kalidas and Magh". Thus he spent 50 years in the service of "Jinwani", (i.e. spiritual doctrines of Jainism as revealed in the resonant preaching of Lord Jinendra Deva). But according to the 'Mantra' "the knowledge is like a burden without action", he for practising it in the real life, engaged himself on the path of renunciation. 4. What type the conduct-path of Acharya Shri Gyansagar ji was ? The model stage of celibacy (Brahmacharya Pritima) - In the form of vow - in 1947 Vik. Sam. 2004. Initiation of Kshullaka - Taken himself on 25 April, 1955, the third day of light half of lunar month Baisakh (Akshya Tritiya), Vik. Sam. 2012 in Parswanath temple at Mansoorpur, Mujaffarnagar. Initiation of Ailaka - In 1957 from Acharya Deshbushanji Maharaj. Initiation of Muni - On the second day of dark half lunar month Asar, 22 June, 1959, Monday, Vik. Sam. 2016 at Khaniyaji, Jaipur (Raj.). Preceptor granting Initiation - Acharya Shri Shivsagar Ji. When endowed with position of Acharya - On the 7th Feb., 1969, Fifth day of dark half of Falguna, Vik. Sam. 2025, Friday, at Naseerabad (Raj.) granted by jain community. One adept was also granted as Muni-initiation who was named as Viveksagarji. Renunciation of the position of Acharya and accepting vow of "Sallekhna" (Holy death) - Granted position of Acharya to his first disciple Muni Shri Vidyasagar ji on 22 Nov. 1972, 2nd day of dark half of the lunar month Magsir, Vik. Sam. 2029 at Naseerabad and requested him for "Sallekhna". Holy death - 15th day of dark half of the lunar month of Jeyeshtha, 1 June, 1973, Friday Vik. Sam. 2030 at Naseerabad (Rajasthan). Time of Holy death - At 10.50 morning. Period of "Sallekhna" - Six months 13 days (according to days of lunar month). Period of "Sallekhna" - Six months 10 days (according to english dates). 5. Which literature Acharya Gyansagar has composed ? In Sanskrit language - Epics - Dayodaya, Jayodaya and Veerodaya. Biographical character verse - Sudarsanodaya, Bhadrodaya and Muni Manoranjanashiti. Jain doctrines - Samayakatvasarshatkam. Religious scriptures - Pravachansar Pratiroopaka. In Hindi language - Biographical character verse - Rishabhvatar, Bhagyodaya, Vivekodaya and Gun Sundar Vratant. Religious scriptures - Kartavyapath Pradarshan, Sachitta Vivechan, Sachitta Vichar, Tattvarthasutra - Teeka (commentary) and Manav Dharma. Translation in verse - Devagama stotra, Niyamsar and Astapahuda. Others - Swami Kundkund, Sanatan Jain Dharma and Jain Vivah Vidhi. 6. Whom Acharya Gyansagar ji imparted knowledge of scriptures ? He taught scriptures to many ascetics, Aryikayen, Ailakas, Kshullakas, Brahamchari and Shravakas, in the congregation of Acharya Veersagar ji, in the congregation of Acharya Shivsagar ji, in the congregation of Dharamsagar ji, Acharya Ajitsagar ji and in present Acharya Vidyasagar ji is an excellent example of this. 7. How Sallekhna (Procedure for physical emaciation for holy death) of Gyansagar ji was accomplished ? First of all Acharya Gyansagar ji renounced his office (position) of Acharya (preceptor head) and gave that position to Muni Vidyasagar ji and he requested Acharya Vidyasagar ji for accomplishing his Sallekhna. In fact there is a rule that Acharya Parmesthi ji should go to other congregation for accepting Sallekhna, then why he did not go, a thought struck me that Acharya Gyansagar ji taught / instructed everything to disciple Vidyasagar ji, i.e. how disciples are taught ? how disciples are admitted (in the congregation)? how initiation is granted ? how the congregation is conducted etc.? but he did not teach him the procedure of Sallekhna as to how the vow of Sallekhna is given ? Hence he himself took (accepted) Sallekhna from Vidyasagar ji so that he may learn it. Even the son who inherited property amounting crores of rupees would not have served his father in the manner in which Acharya Shri Vidyasagar ji served his Guru. Acharya Shri Gyansagar ji was suffering from pain of sciatica due to which he was not sleeping outside even in the hot days of summer. Then also Acharya Vidyasagar ji used to sleep with him inside the room in that hot weather. Gyansagar ji always remained in the state of awakening. He had renounced food grains about six months before holy death and with four fasts the Yama Sallekhna was concluded in the terrible hot of summer of Rajasthan.

1. When and where Acharya Shri Shantisagar ji was born ? He was born in the night of wednesday, the 25th July, 1872, corresponding to 6th day of the dark fortnight of lunar month 'Asar', 'Vikram Samvat' 1929 in village yelgul (Maharashtra) near Bhojgram (Karnataka) in the house of his maternal grandfather. 2. What was former name of Acharya Shanti Sagarji ? The former name of Acharya Shantisagar Ji was Saatgowda. 3. What sort of 'Dohla' (intense desire) his mother felt when he was in the mother's womb ? She felt the intense desire of worshipping Lord Jinendra with 108 thousand - petaled lotuses. Then those lotuses were sent for from the pond near Kolhapur and Jinendra Deva was worshipped with great devotion. 4. What was the name of the parents of Saatgowda ? The name of his mother was Satyavati and father Bhimgowda Patil (Village Headman). He was fourth Jain by caste. 5. How many brothers and sisters were of Saatgowda ? There were five brothers and sisters including Saatgowda - Adigowda, Devagowda, Saatgowda (Acharya Shri Shanti Sagarji), Kumbhgowda and sister Krishna Bai. 6. Whether Saatgowda was a married one or a celibate from childhood ? He was a married celibate from childhood, i.e. he was married in the age of 9 years to a girl of 6 years and it so happened that by chance that girl died after six months. Maharaj Ji once told that he never knew her as his wife. He did not marry afterwards. 7. From when he had inclination of becoming 'Muni' ? Well, he wanted to become a 'Muni' at the age of 17-18 years but his father had great affection for him. The father told him that he should strive for religious accomplishment living in the house itself till his life, afterwards he might become 'Muni'. Therefore, as per the wish (order) of his father he took 'Kshullaka' inition after his (of father) holy death (Samadhi Maran) at the age of 43 years and became Muni at the age of 48. 8. When Saatgowda paid homage to Shikharji (went to visit Shikharji) and what he renounced there? He went to Shikarji to pay homage at the age of 32 years and renounced there ghee and oil for the whole life so as to make the memory of that pilgrimage long lasting and resolved to take food once in a day as soon as he returned home. 9. Whether Saatgowda had feelings for the protection of living beings since childhood ? Yes, he had feeling of protection of living beings. There is an incident of one day. Saatdowda had gone for defecation in the Jungle. When he returned home with the broken metal round pot, he was asked about the breakage of the pot. He told that one snake was rushing towards a frog for swallowing that, so in order to save the life of the frog he immeditately threw the pot in question forcefully on the stone owing to which snake ran away. When he used to go on the field and birds caused damage to the crop he did not cause them to flee, on the other hand he used to put water for them to drink. 10. What sort of commercial life of Saatgowda was ? Saatgowda and Kumbhgowda used to sit on the textile shop. When Saatgowda used to sit on the shop and customer came then Saatgowda used to ask him to measure the cloth by himself which he wanted to purchase and keep the cost there. He him -self did not even use to count the money. 11. Saatgowda was without attachment even living in the house, How ? He lived in the house quite unattached. That is why he did not participate in the marriage ceremony of his younger brother Kumbhgowda and sister Krishna Bai. 12. What sort of compassion and physical strength was of Saatgowda ? When Saatgowda was visiting Sammed-Shikharji for paying homage, one old woman was seen experiencing difficulty in walking and she could not also engage 'doli' (litter) being penniless. Therefore, Saatgowda seated her on his shoulder and caused to complete her "Vandna' (paying homage) of Sammed Shikarji. In the same way he carried one person to the five hills of 'Rajgrihi'on his shoulder so that he may visit and pay homage there. 13. What sort of journey of abstinence was of Saatgowda ? (1) Kshullaka Diksha (initiation)-Accepted from Devendra kirti Muni Maharaj on the 13th day of light half of Jetha', 'Vikram Samvata', 1972 (Christian era, 1915) at village Uttoor. (2) Ailak Diksha - Accepted self at 'Siddha-Kshetra' Girnarji on the fourteenth day of the light half of the lunar month Pausa, Vikram Samvat, 1975 (Christian era Wednessday, January 1919). (3) Muni Diksha - Took 'Muni-Diksha' from Muni Devendra Kirtiji on the 13th day of the light half of the lunar month 'Falguna', 'Vikram Samvata', 1976 (Christion era Tuesday 2nd March, 1920) at Yarnal on the occasion of 'Panchkalyanaka' (4) Status of Acharya - At Samdoli on Wednesday, the 11th day of the light half of the lunar month Asvina, 'Vikram Samvata', 1981, corresponding to Christian era, 1924. (5) Status of Charitra Chakarvarti - At Gajpantha, 'Vikram Samvata', 1994 (Christian era, 1937). 14. When and where 'Ailaka' Shantisagarji renounced travel by vehicle ? After returning from 'Siddha-Kshetra Girnarji', he arrived at Kundal hill near Sangli and stepped down from there at Alankrit Railway Station and after visiting shrines and paying homage there, he renounced travel by vehicle for the whole life. 15. Where first 'Chaturmas' of Acharya Shantisagarji was held in northern India ? The Chaturmas (rainy season-stay) of Acharya Shantisagarji was held at Katni (M.P.) in the year 1928. 16. How many fasts Acharya Shantisagarji observed during the period of his Muni-life ? During 35 years of his Muni-life, he observed fasts for 27 years 2 months and 23 days i.e. 9938 fasts. 17. When and where Acharya Shri Shantisagarji gave up the status of 'Acharya' and to whom he transferred this status ? Status of'Acharya' was abandoned through a letter at Kunthalgiri. That letter was sent to his first disciple Muni Shri Veersagarji, i.e. he transferred his status of Acharya to Muni Shri Veersagarji on the 9th day of the light half of the lunar month of first 'Bhadra', 'Vikram Samvata', 2012, corresponding to Friday, the 26th August, 1955. 18. When and where the 'Samadhi', i.e. Holy death of Acharya Shri Shantisagarji had taken place ? Samadhi' of Acharya Shri Shantisagarji Maharaj was accomplished at Kunthalgiri on Sunday, the 2nd day of the light half of the lunar month of second 'Bhadra', 'Vikram Samvata' 2012 corresponding to 18th September, 1955. 19. How many days the 'Sallekhna' (process of holy death) of Acharya Shri Shantisagarji continued ? 'Yama Sallekhna' continued for 36 days. He renounced taking food except water on 14th August after taking food and also renounced even water taking it for the last time on 4th September. 20. From whom Acharya Shri Shantisagarji took initiation of Muni according to Muni Shri Vardhmansagarji (elder brother of Acharya Shri Shantisagarji) ? Acharya Shri Shantisagarji took initiation of Muni from Bhonsekar Adisagarji Muniraj at yernal. 21. What is the succession of disciples of Acharya Shri Shantisagarji ? Note : There are some more successions of disciples of Acharya Shantisagarji Maharaj. 22. In which treatise life history of Acharya Shri Shantisagarji is found and who is its author ? The treatise is Charitra Chakarvati and author is Pt. Sumerchandji Diwakar, Seoni (M.P.). 23. When Charitra Chakarvarti treatise was released ? It was released in the morning of 4th March, 1953 at Shravanbelgola in the proximity of Acharya Shri Deshbhushan Ji and his congregation. (The Subject - matter of this chapter has been taken almost from 'Charitra Chakarvarti Treatise').

1. Where child Mahavir was born ? Child Mahavir was born in Kundgram (Vaishali) Bihar. 2. On which days of lunar months the five auspicious events of Teerthankara Mahavir took place ? The auspicious event of Conception - Sixth day of light half of the lunar month Asar, Friday, 17th June, 599 B.C. The auspicious event of Birth - 13th day of light half of the lunar month Chaitra, Monday, 27th March, 598 B.C. The auspicious event of Initiation - 10th day of dark half of the lunar month Magsir, Monday, 29th Dec., 569 B.C. The auspicious event of Omniscience - 10th day of the light half of the lunar month Baisakh, Sunday, 23rd April, 557 B.C. The auspicious event of Salvation - 15th day of dark half of the lunar month Kartika, Tuesday, 15th October, 527 B.C. accordingly before Vikram Samvat 470 and before Shaka Samvat 605. [Teerthankara Mahavir Aur Unki Acharya Parampara, Part I] 3. Where from child Teerthankara Mahavir came ? Child Teerthankara Mahavir came from Pushpottar celestial space-plane of Achyuta heaven. 4. What were the names of parents & grand parents of child Mahavir ? The name of the mother of child Mahavir was Trishla, father's name was king Siddhartha, of the grand father Sarvartha and that of the grand mother was Shrimati. 5. What were the names of parents & grand parents of Trishla ? The name of the mother of Trishla was Subhadradevi, of father was King Chetaka, of grand father was King Keka and that of grand mother was Yashomati. 6. How many sons & daughters were there of King Chetaka ? There were ten sons, namely Dhandatta, Dhanbhadra, Upendra, Sudatta, Sinhadatta, Sukumbhoj, Akampan, Patangaka, Prabhanjana and Prabhas and daughters namely Trishla, Mirgavati, Suprabha, Prabhavati, Chelna, Jyestha, and Chandana. The second name of Chelna was also Vasumati. 7. What is the meaning of Chetaka ? He made many of his enemies as 'cheti' or slave, hence he began to be called by the name of Chetaka. 8. What were the names of the place of initiation, the forest of initiation and the Initia tion - tree of Prince Mahavir ? The name of place of initiation of Prince Mahavir was Kundalpur, of the forest of initiation was Shandavan and that of the initiation tree was Shal tree. 9. Due to what eficient cause the aversion from worldly enjoyments occured / caused to Prince Mahavir ? The aversion from worldly enjoyments occured to Prince Mahavir through recollection of previous birth. 10. Where Muni Mahavir took food for the first time after initiation of ascetic and in whose residence ? Muni Mahavir took food for first time after initiation of ascetic in the palace of King Kool in Koolgram. 11. What was the family succession and 'Gotra' (an exogamous sub-devision of the caste group) of Mahavir ? The family succession / pedigree of Mahavir was Nath and Gotra was Kashyapa. 12. In which palanquin he went for initiation ? He went for initiation sitting in the Chandra Prabha palanquin. 13. Where Muni Mahavir attained omniscience and under what tree ? Muni Mahavir attained omniscience in Shandvan/Manoharvan (river Rijukoola) under the Sal tree. 14. How many Muni, Aryika, Shravaka (devouts) and Shravikayen (female devouts) were there in the Samavsaran of Teerthankara Mahavir ? There were 14000 Muni, 36000 Aryikayen, 1 Lakh Shravakas and 3 Lakh Shravikayen in the Samavsaran of Teerthankara Mahavir. 15. Who were the chief Gandhara, chief Ganini and the chief Listner of Teerthankara Mahavir ? The chief Gandhar of Mahavir was Gautam, the chief Ganini was Chandna and chief Listner was King Shrenika. 16. What were the names of Yaksha and Yakshni of Teerthankara Mahavir ? The Yaksha was Guhaaka and the Yakshni was Siddhayni. 17. How many Ghandharas were there of Teerthankara Mahavir, enumerate their names ? There were eleven Ghandhara of Teerthankara Mahavir namely - Indrabhuti (Gautam), Vayubhuti, Agnihbhuti, Sudharmaswami, Mauraya, Maundra, Putra, Maitreya, Akampana, Andhvela and Prabhas. 18. Where the first Samavsaran of Teerthankara Mahavir was held ? The first Samavsaran of Teerthankara Mahavir was held at Vipulachal mountain. 19. How many days the discourse of Teerthankara Mahavir did not reveal and why? The discourse of Teerthankara Mahavir did not reveal for 66 days for want of Ghandhara. 20. When the discource of Teerthankara Mahavir was revealed ? The discourse of Teerthankara Mahavir was revealed on the 1st day of dark half of the lunar month Shravan, Saturday, 1st July, 557 B.C. 21 How many questions were asked by King Shrenika in the Samavsaran of Teerthankara Mahavir ? King Shrenika asked 60 thousand questions in the Samavsaran of Teerthankara Mahavir. 22. Before how many day's Teerthankara Mahavir left Samavsaran for performing ces sation of activities of mind, speech and body (Yoga Nirodha) ? Teerthankara Mahavir left Samavsaran before 2 days for performing cessation of activities of mind, speech & body (Yoga Nirodha). 23. In which mode of life Teerthankara Mahavir attained right-faith ? Teerthankara Mahavir attained right-faith in the mode of the lion. 24. Of how many years the discipline period of Teerthankara Mahavir is ? The disciplline period of Teerthankara Mahavir is of 21 thousand and 42 years. 25. Enumerate the births (of Mahavir) from lion to Mahavir ? Lion ,deity in Saudharma heaven, King kankojjwal, deity in Lantava heaven, King Harisen, deity in Mahashukra heaven, Priyamitra named Prince, deity in the 12th heaven, King Nanda, Indra in Achyut heaven & Teerthankara Mahavir. 26. When Teerthankaras Mahavir bounded the karmic-nature of Teerthankarahood and where ? When Teerthankara Mahavir assumed / accepted restraint in the mode (life-course) of King Nanda then he bonded the karmic-nature of Teerthankarahood in the proximity of Guru Prosthil (A saint well versed in scriptural knowledge). 27. What were the names of ascetics who exhorted religious preachings to the lion ? The names of Muni who exhorted religious instruction to the lion were Muni Amitkirti and Amitprabha. 28. After how many years of the liberation / salvation of Teerthankara parashwanath, child Mahavir was born ? Child Mahavir was born after 178 years of the liberation / salvation of Teerthankara Parashwanath. 29. How many names were there of Teerthankara Mahavir ? enumerate the names ? Veer - At the time of birth-anointment a doubt occured to the Indra that how the child shall bear the flow of so much water? The child knowing about this through his clairvoyance pressed the Meru mountain a little, then Indra came to know the immeasurable strength of the child. The Indra begged pardon and said - Precisely he is a Veer Jinendra. Vardhman - The King Siddhartha told that just when the child came in the womb of Priyakarini, from that very day the wealth and prosperity in the home, city and kingdom began to increase, hence this child should be named as Vardhman. Sanmati - Once Sanjaya and Vijaya named two Muni endowed with supernatural power to move in the sky, had some metaphysical inquisitiveness. As soon as they saw Vardhman, their inquisitiveness was solved, then the Muni named Vardhman as Sanmati. Mahavir - Vardhman was playing with his friends on a tree, then Sangamdeva wrapped himself round trunk of the tree, assuming the form of a huge snake in order to frighten them. All friends were frightened, jumped from the branch and fled away but Vardhman climbing on the snake started playing with him. Seeing so, the Sangamdeva, assuming/returning in his original form, and admiring Vardhman named him as Mahavir. Ativeer - One elephant being besotted / intoxicated was not coming under the control of any one, was creating turmoil. Knowing this Mahavir intended to go there then people asked him not to go there but Mahavir did not pay any heed to them and went there. Seeing Mahavir, the elephant bowing his head began to salute lifting his trunk. Then the populace admired the prince and named him as Ativeer.

Child Parshwanath was born at Banaras in 877 B.C. At the age of sixteen years one day he went outskirt of the city to play along with his companions. There he saw his maternal grand father Mahipal who had become an ascetic, the performer of five-fires penance (in which the performer sits in the heat of sun in the hot wheather) being-distressed by breavement of his wife (Parshwkumar's maternal grand mother). He was pouring woods in the fire. Parshwanath checked him and said, 'what are you doing'? one pair of serpant and female serpant is burning in this. When that burning wood was sawed then truely that pair came out in burning condition. Parshwa kumar exhorted that pair. Hearing the exhortation that pair passed away and became Dharnendra-Padmavati in the heaven. In course of time that ascetic being distressed died and became Samvar named stellar deity. At the age of 30 years aversion from worldly life and enjoyments grew in Parshwa kumar and leaving all his belongings & possessions, he assumed the initiation of nude Jain saint. A period of four months remained as disguised or non-omniscient period. After four months, determining meditational state for seven days he was ensconced increasing religious meditation, at that very time the celestial space-plane of the Samvar deity was passing through there. His celestial-plane stopped on its own. He knew its reason from his false clairvoyance and the enmity of the previous births began to be seen clearly, then that idiot began to cause calamity on him. Excessiveness of every action is an indicator of its end. DharnendraPadmavati came to know about this calamity through their clairvoyance then they came for the protection of their benefactor Muni Parshwanath. Lord Parshwanath remained engrossed in meditation and attained omniscience. As soon as the omniscience manifested, the calamity was removed and that Samvar deity, the soul of Kamath of previous birth begged pardon of his evil deeds and he also attained right belief. As soon as the omniscience manifested, the Samvsaran was built/created and the Lord moving many places delivered spiritual instructions. In the end when one month was left over of his age he left Samavsaran for cessation of activities of mind, speech & body, arrived Sammedshikharji and attained emancipation salvation from there only. 1. From which heaven the child Parshwanath came ? He came from Pranat heaven. 2. What was the second name of Parshwa kumar ? The second name of Parshwa kumar was Subhom. (Uttar Puran, 73/103) 3. What were the names of parents of Parshwa kumar ? The father was Vishwasen and the mother Vamadevi. 4. In which family succession, Parshwa kumar was born ? Parshwa kumar was born in Ugra Vansha. 5. On which days of lunar months the auspicious events of Parshwanath took place ? The auspicious event of Conception - Second day of dark half of lunar month Baisakha. The auspicious event of Birth - Eleventh day of dark half of lunar month of Paus. The auspicious event of Initiation -Eleventh day of dark half of lunar month of Paus. The auspicious event of Omniscience - 4th day of dark half of lunar month Chaitra. The auspicious event of Salvation - Seventh day of light half of the lunar month of Shravan. 6. What were the names of the place of initiation, forest of initiation and the Initiation - tree of Parshwa kumar ? The name of place of initiation of Parshwa kumar was Varansi, of forest was Ashwavan/ Asvatthvan and that of the tree was Dhav/Devdaru tree. 7. Where Muni Parshwanath took food for the first time after initiation and in whose residence ? Muni Parshwanath took food for first time after initiation at Gulamkhet (Dwaravati) in the palace of King Brahamdutta. 8. Where Muni Parshwanath attained omniscience and under which tree? Muni Parshwanath attained omniscience in Ashwavan (Kashi) under Devdaru tree. 9. What was the age and height of the body of Teerthankara Parshwanath ? The Age of Teerthankara Parshwanath was 100 years and the height 9 hands. 10. Where Teerthankara Parshwanath attained emancipation ? Teerthankara Parshwanath attained emancipation from Swarnbhadra peak of Sammed Shikhar Ji. 11. How many years Teerthankara Parshwanath exhorted spiritual instruction ? Teerthankara Parshwanath exhorted spiritual instructions for 69 years 7 months. 12. Who were the chief disciple (Gandhara), chief female disciple (Ganini) and the chief listner of Teerthankara Parshwanath ? The chief Gandhar of Teerthankara Parshwanath was Swayambhoo, the chief Ganini Sulochna and chief listner was Mahasen. 13. How many Muni, Aryika, Shravaka (devouts) and Shravikayen were there of Teerthankara Parshwanath ? There were 16000 Muni, 38000 Aryikayen, 1 lakh Shravakas and three lakh Shravikayen in theSamavsaran of Teerthankara Parshwanath. 14. What were the names of the Yaksha-Yakshni of Teerthankara Parshwanath ? The Yaksha of Parshwanath was Matang and Yakshni Padmavati. 15. What were the previous birth of Teerthankara Parshwanath and Kamath ? Parshwanath - The son of Vishwabhuti Brahaman Marubhuti Kamath - The son of Vishwabhuti and elder brother of Marubhuti. Parshwanath - Elephant Vajraghosha. Kamath - The Kukkut named snake. Parshwanath - Deity in Sahasrar named 12th heaven. Kamath - Dhumra Prabha named hell. Parshwanath - Agniveg Vidyadhar. Kamath - Python. Parshwanath - Deity in Achyut named 16th heaven. Kamath - Sixth hell. Parshwanath - Vajranabhi Chakravarti. Kamath - Kuranga named Bheel, a tribal person Parshwanath - Ahmindra in middle Graiveyaka. Kamath - Seventh hell. Parshwanath - King Anand. Kamath - Lion. Parshwanath - Indra in the Pranat named 13th heaven. Kamath - Fifth hell. Parshwanath - Teerthankara Parshwanath. Kamath - The King Mahipal and Samvar named stellar deity. [Parshwanath Charit: Acharya Sakalkirti] 16. How many years the discipline period of Teerthankara Parshwanath remained in vogue ? The discipline periods of Teerthankara Parshwanath continued for 278 years. [T.P., 4/1285] 17. How many times the soul of Kamath bereaved the life of Parshwanath ? The soul of Kamath bereaved the life of Parshwanath five times.

The 'Bhogbhumi (land of enjoyments) was concluding and the beginning of Karambhumi was taking place. At that very time the baby Rishabh was born in Ayodhya. His father was King Nabhirai and the mother was Queen Marudevi. Earlier the material of enjoyment used to be provided by Kalpavraksha. The Kalpavraksha stopped giving material of enjoyments as soon as the Karambhumi (land of action) began due to which people began to call repeatedly for help, for mercy and protection. All human being approached King Nabhirai for solving this problem. The King Nabhirai told that this problem will be solved by Prince Rishabhdeva. Seeing grieved people, Prince Rishabhdeva instructed them to adopt six occupations for earning livelihood. 1. Asi - Sword (Defence services) - 'Asi' means sword. Who protect and defend the country taking sword (arms) standing on the boundry such soldiers and also sepoy and Gorkha etc. who are appointed to protect the city, are said to earn their living by 'Asi'. 2. Masi - Book-keepers in private establishment and in government departments Accountants, Chartered Accountants and Bank-cashiers, etc. 3. Krishi - Agriculture - Non-violent agriculture / cultivation, farming. 4. Vidya - Learning - Practising 72 arts / skills or working as I.A.S., I. P.S. imparting education as Lecturer, Professors, etc. 5. Shilpa - Handicraft - Goldsmith, potter, painter, craftsman, tailor, hair-cutter, cook, etc. 6. Vanijya - Trade - Genuine and non-violent trade, industrial activities. From these instructions people felt at ease and they began to lead their life according to these instructions which is still continuing in the same form. After some time Prince Rishabhdeva was married to two girls named Nanda & Sunanda. The father performed the coronation of the Prince seing the right time. King Rishbhdeva had 101 sons and 2 daughters. King Rishbhdeva imparted knowledge of alphabets & numbers to both of his daughters. He taught knowlege of alphabet to Brahmi and of number/ figure to Sundari which is still in vogue. Once King Rishbhdeva was watching dance of a celestial damsel Neelanjana. Suddenly she collapsed and died. The Indra immediately arranged for the second damsel but King Rishbhdeva came to know through his clairvoyance that the first damsel had died and the Indra by trickery had replaced her by a second damsel. Knowing passing away of the celestial damsel, a feeling of aversion from worldly enjoyments awakened in him and entrusting the kingdom & throne to Bharat-Bahubali took initiation of nude Jain saint. He observed fast for six months. When he moved for taking food-intake then not any Shravak knew nine types of devotions (Navdha Bhakti) related to offering food to Jain saints. Therefore, again he had to observe fast for 7 months 9 days. While moving, one day he reached Hastinapur. As soon as the King Shreyansh had a glance at Rishbhdeva the recollection of the memory of his past births strucked his mind that he had offered food to a Muniraj endowed with the supernatural power of moving in the sky in the past 8th birth, with nine types of devotions and only due to lack of this nine types of devotion, Muniraj Rishbhdeva is not getting food. Then what matter, when Muni Rishabhdeva moved for taking food then King Som & King Shreyansh offered food first time to the first Teerthankara after so many fasts (with Navdha Bhakti) on the third day of the night half of the lunar month Baishakh from then only the festival of 'Akshaya Tirtiya'is in vogue. After observing penance for one thousand years Muni Rishabhdeva attained omniscience and delivered religious discourses in the form of resonant preaching/Omkar sound in the Samavsaran. In the course of time, when 14 days remained in balance of his age he, leaving the Samavsaran went to Kailash mountain, there he obseved Yog nirodha ,(i.e. ceased all activities of mind, speech and body) and attained final emancipation ,i.e. salvation on the 14th day of the dark fortnight of lunar month of Magha. 1. Where from baby Rishabhdeva had come ? The baby Rishabhdeva had come from Sarvarthsiddhi celestial space plane. 2. Tell prevalent names of Teerthankara Rishabhdeva ? Shri Adinath, Shri Vrashabhnath, Shri Purudeva, Shri Adi Brahma, Shri Prajapati, etc. 3. Where Rishabhdeva was born and what was the second name of that place ? Child Rishabhdeva was born in Ayodhya and its second name was Vineeta. 4. After how many days Muni Rishabhdeva got food after Muni-initiation ? After initiation Muni Rishabhdeva got food after 1 year 39 days. 5. What were the names of the Yaksha-Yakshni of Teerthankara Rishabhdeva ? The Name of the Yaksha was Gaumukh and of Yakshni was Chakreshwari. 6. Which son of king Rishabhdeva first of all attained salvation ? First of all son Anantvirya or Bahubali of Rishabhdeva attained salvation (There are two opinion regarding this). 7. From when the country Bharat is named as Bharat Varsha ? This region is named as Bharat Varsha from beginningless time. 8. Who was the first expositor of female education ? King Rishabhdeva was the first expositor of women education. 9. On which days of lunar months five auspicious events of Rishabhdeva took place ? 1. The auspicious event of Conception - Second day of Dark half of the lunar month Asar. 2. The auspicious event of Birth - Ninth day of the Dark half of the lunar month Chaitra. 3. The auspicious event of Initiation - Ninth day of the Dark half of the lunar month Chaitra. 4. The auspicious event of Omniscience - Eleventh day of the Dark half of the lunar month Falguna. 5. The auspicious event of Salvation - 14th day of the Dark half of the lunar month Magh. 10. What arrangment/ division of society in classes Rishabhdeva had instructed ? King Rishabhdeva had arranged the society in three classes - Kshatriya, Vaishya (trading class) and Sudra (working/serving class). 11. What are the names of the place of Initiation, Initiation forest & Initiation tree of the king Rishabhdeva ? The place of Initiation is Prayag, the Initiation forest is Siddharthaka Van and the Initia tion tree is Banyan tree. 12. Who were the chief disciple (Gandhara), chief female disciple (Ganini) and chief Listner of Teerthankara Rishabhdeva ? The chief Gandhara was Rishabhsen, the chief Ganini was Brahmi and the chief Listner was Bharat. 13. How many years of the discipline period (governing era) of Teerthankara Rishabhdeva remained / existed ? The discipline period of Teerthankara Rishabhdeva existed for 50 lakh crore sagar+1 Purvang. (T.P., 4/1261) 14. Where Muni Rishabhdeva attained omniscience and under which tree ? Muni Rishabhdeva attained omniscience in Shaktavan (Purimtalpur) and under Banyan tree. 15. How many Gandharas were there of Teerthankara Rishabhdeva ? There were 84 Ghandhara of Teerthankara Rishabhdeva. 16. How many Muni, Arikayen, Shravaka (male devouts) and Shravikayen (female devouts) were there in the Samavsaran of Teerthankara Rishabhdeva ? There were 84,000 Muni, 3,50,000 Arikayen, 3 lakhs Shravaka and 5 lakhs Shravikayen in the Samavsaran of Rishabhdeva. 17. When Teerthankara Rishabhdeva bounded the karmic nature of Teerthankara and in whose foot-proximity ? When Rishabhdeva was in the mode of Vajranabhi Chakravarti in his past third birth, then he, renouncing all his belongings, took initiation of Jain nude saint in the Samavsaran of Teerthankara Vajrasen who was his father. At that very time he bonded the karmic nature of Teerthankara. 18. What was the age & height of Teerthankara Rishabhdeva ? The age of Teerthankara Rishabhdeva was 84 Lakh Purva and height of the body was 500 Dhanusha.

1. What is 'Kalyanaka' ? The festivity specially celebrated by Indras, celestial and human beings at the time of conception, birth, penance (initiation) omniscience and salvation of Teerthankaras, is called Kalyanaka. 2. What are five Kalyanakas ? Auspicious event of conception, of birth, of penance (initiation), of omniscience and of salvation. 3. What is auspicious event of conception ? Saudharma Indra, knowing coming of Teerthankara in the womb of mother (impregnation) in near future through his divine clairvoyance, orders Kuber, the treasurer of the heaven, to build city for parents of the Teerthankara and to rain three & half crores of Jewels on their courtyard thrice in a day. Thus the rain of jewel starts before six months of conception and continues regularly till his birth, i.e., for about fifteen months. The mother of the Teerthankara sees extremely charming amusing and delightful 16 dreams in the last phase of night (a three hour's period) before conceiving. These dreams are indicative of the coming of Teerthankara in the womb. As soon as the conception of Teerthankara takes place, celestial beings alongwith Saudharma Indra circumambulating the city thrice salute the parents of the Teerthankara. Euologizing the Teerthankara in the womb they celebrate a great festivity. After rejoicing the auspicious event of the conception, the Saudharma Indra appoints shri, etc. female celestial maids for purifying the womb. These female celestial-maids attend and serve Jina's mother and make her mind engage in religious discussions and the Saudharma Indra goes back to his place alongwith other deities. 4. What is auspicious event of Birth ? After completion of period ofconception the Jina's mother gives birth to child Teerthankara. Just on the birth of child Teerthankara all the three world are filled with delight and happiness. Even to the extent that where beating & wounding/ carnage goes on throughout all the 24 hours even in those hells the infernal beings feel extra-ordinary pleasure for a moment and the seats of Indras of heaven begin trembling and the gong, lion's roar, bugle and conch begin to play on their own in the residence of Kalpvasi, Stellar, Peripatetic and Bhavanvasi deities respectively. Indras and celestial beings become sure of the birth of Teerthankara seeing all these omens and immediately getting down from their respective seats / thrones and marching seven steps ahead they salute and eulogize child Teerthankara indirectly. Afterwards by the order of Saudharma Indra seven types army of deities leave for birthplace of Teerthankara shouting cheers and rejoicing. The Saudharma Indra along with his Indrani also leaves for the birth-place riding on the Airavat Elephant. All celestial beings along with Saudharma Indra circumambulate thrice the birth place of the Teerthankara. Afterwards Shachi (Indrani of Saudharma Indra) entering the delivery room secretely, circumambulating Jina's mother thrice, making Jina's mother asleep through enchanting sleep and gazing at the graceful form of Jina-child with extreme ecstasy and rapture, brings the child and hands over him to the Saudharma Indra and makes asleep an illusory child near mother. Saudharma Indra becomes sentimental seeing the child Teerthankara and observes the beauty of child Teerthankara making '1000 eyes'. Afterwards riding on the Airavata Elaphant and causing the Jina-child to sit on his lap and going to the Sumeru mountain, anoint the Teerthankara child ensconcing on the Pandukashila, by the water of Kshirsagar with 1008 pitchers (water pot). Shachi adorns the child with heavenly attire and ornaments. Afterwards which mark Indra sees on the toe of right foot of the child declaring that very mark as the symbol / identification mark of the Teerthankara, gives name to the Teerthankara. Then Saudharma Indra ensconcing the child on the Airavat Elephant comes back to the birth-city. Indrani coming near the Jina's mother picks up the illusory child and removing the enchanting asleep of the mother keeps the Jina-child near her. The Jina's mother sees the child with extreme cheerful delight. The Indra and other celestial beings paying special reverence to the parents go back to the Indraloka. 5. What is auspicious event of Penance ? After auspicious event of Birth Teerthankara spend their childhood and on becoming youth they accept kingship (5 Teerthankaras out of present Teerthankaras did not accept kingship). Due to some or the other motive aversion from worldly life generates in him then at that very time Laukantika deities coming from Bramha heaven eulogize Teerthankara praising his detachment from worldly life. Afterwards the Saudharma Indra anoint the detached Teerthankara with the water of Kshirsagar which is called as Deekshabhisheka, i.e. penance - anointment. Then Teerthankara himself sits in the palanquin brought by the Kuber. Human beings and Vidhyadharas take that palanquin up to 7 steps each, afterwards celestial beings take that palanquin up to the Initiation-forest by sky-route. Having ensconced on the moon-stone-rock kept there by celestial beings facing east in the lotus posture and paying obeisance to Siddha Parmesthi, plucking hair by the fist and renouncing attire and ornaments thereby assuming Jina's-posture (state of nudity) takes resolve of major vows re nouncing all sinful activities. Saudharma Indra keeping hair in a gem-box, consign them to the Kshirsagar. After the initiation the celestial beings performing special worship-devotion of the Teerthankara go back to their respective places. (Jain Tattva Vidya, p. 35-36) 6. What is auspicious event of Omniscience ? Teerthankara after taking initiation of Muni, performs arduous penance by keeping mum and advancing religious concentration, ascending auspicious ladder related to destruction of Karmas (Kshapak Shreni) destroys deluding Karma completely in the end of 10th stage of spiritual development (Gunasthan) and in the last instant of the 12th stage of spiritual development as soon as the knowledge-obscuring, perception-obscuring and obstructive Karma are destroyed, attains omniscience, due to which he begins to know simultaneously all sentient and non-sentient substances along with their infinite modes. As soon as the omniscience is manifested to the Teerthankara, the celestial beings seeing the marks / symbols appearing in their respective places and trembling of the seat / throne of the Saudharma Indra come to know through their clairvoyance that the Teerthankara Muni has attained the omniscience. Hence, the Indra & the other deities stand up from their respective seats and marching seven steps ahead, pay their obeisance to the Teerthankara. The Saudharma Indra along with all celestial beings come to visit & worship the Teerthankara and the Kuber creates / builds Samavsaran by the orders of the Saudharma Indra in which Teerthankara ensconces. The Indra, deities, human beings & Tiryanchas visit, worship and listen to the preaching of the Teerthankara. 7. How many times the Teerthankara's discourse takes place in a day and up to how much time ? The Teerthankara discourses four times in a day - morning/ midday, evening and midnight and also at improper time on arrival of Chakravarti ,etc. V.I.P. The discourse lasts for 3 Muhurta, i.e. 2 hours and 24 minutes in one time, which is called resonant preaching of the Lord Teerthankara in the form of Omkar sound (Divya Dhvani). (Gommatsar jeevakand, Jeeva Prabodhini - 356) 8. What is the Moksha Kalyanaka (Auspicious event of Salvation) ? When the salvation time of Teerthankara becomes imminent then he leaving the Samavsaran goes to the place where salvation is to take place, performs 'Yog Nirodha',(i.e. cessation of activities of mind, speech and body) and as soon as he attains the 14th stage of spiritual development he, destroying four non-destructive Karmas, attains final emancipation, i.e. "Nirvan' in the least time which consumes just in pronouncing the last of the five short vowels (अ, इ, उ, ऋ,लू i.e. a, i, u, r, l). At that very time the Indra and deities come there in the 'Nirvan bhumi' (place of salvation) and placing the sacred body of the Teerthankara in palanquin studded with gems pay their obeisance. Afterwards Agnikumar' deities perform ceremony of cremation of the body of the Teerthankara by the fire produced from their crown and applying that ash on their forehead contemplate to become like Him. Afterwards all deities play together' Anand drama. In this way all deities performing worship of 'Nirvana Kalyanaka' of the Teerthankara methodically and making mark of feet in that place by thunderbolt-needle, go back to their respective places. (Jain Tattva Vidya, p. 38-39).

1. What is 'Samavsaran' ? 'Samavsaran' is the assembly of resonant preaching of 'Teerthankaras'. 2. Enumerate distinguishing features (pecularities) of 'Samavsaran' ? 1. 'Kuber', the lord of treasury of the heaven creates 'Samavsaran' from special diamonds and jewels by order of 'Saudharama' 'Indra' after manifestation of Kevaljñān' (Omni science) to 'Teerthankara'. 2. This 'Samavsaran' is a round-shaped rock made of 'Indra-Neelmani' (a kind of jewel) five thousand 'Dhanusha' above the ground in the space between the earth and sky and is expanded to 12 'yojan'. The 'Samavsaran' is created on this rock. 'Dhanusha' is equal to 4 hand i.e. 6 feet therefore, this 'Samavsaran' is 30,000 feet above the ground). (reference - Tiloypannati 4/ 724-725) 3. There are 20 thousand stairs in each direction.People/all living beings climb through these stairs without any labour just as nowadays through lift, and through escalator on which people stand and the stairs move on their own. 4. There is a passage adjacent to stairs that goes up to the first seat of Gandh Kuti' (seat of 'Teerthankara' in 'Samavsaran') situated in the centre of 'Samavsaran'. 5. There are eight grounds (lands) in 'Samavsaran' (i) Chaitya-Prasad land, (ii) Jalakhatika, (iii) Latavan Bhumi, (iv) Upvana Bhumi, (v) Dhwaja Bhumi, (vi) Kalpavraksha Bhumi, (vii) Bhavan Bhumi, (viii) Shri Mandap Bhumi, ahead of it there is a terrace made of crystal gems. Ahead of this terrace there are three sequential round pedestals (seats) one above the other reducing sequentially in diametre and above these first, second and third pedestal, the 'Gandhkuti' is situated. Teerthankara are seated on the lotus fixed/created on the throne placed in the 'Gandhkuti' but four 'Angul' (fingers length) above in the space with eight 'Pratiharyas' (auspicious emblems of Teerthankaras). 6. In the outer part of 'Samavsaran' there are two theatres/dancing places each on both sides of the passage i.e. in total there are 16 theaters (in eight Bhumi) in which 32 female deities used to dance in each of them. 7. Entering the doors, some ahead there are four 'Manstanbhas' (pride-benumbing monument pillars crowned with idols of Lord Omniscient (Arihant Parmeshthi) in each of four directions seeing which pride of proud person melts away. 8. There are twelve large rooms divided by sixteen walls adorned with crystal gems in the 'Shri Mandap Bhumi' in which there are twelve assembly halls. From the right side of 'Teerthankara' following sit in sequence : (i) Gandharas & all saints (Muni), (ii) kalpvasi female deities, (iii) Aryikayen and female shravikayen, (iv) female stellar deities, (v) female 'Vyantara' deities, (vi) female Bhavanvasi deties (vii) Residential celestial beeings i.e. Bhavanvasi deva, (viii) Vyantara deva, (ix) Stellar deva, (x) Kalpvasi deva, (xi) Chakravarti and human beings, (xii) Animals and Birds. (T.P.4/866-872) 9. Because of majesty of Teerthankara' there is no terror, disease, death, hunger, thirst, cold and heat, and natural enemies-snake and mangoose, deer and lion sit together and hear the preachings of 'Teerthankara'. In this connection Achharya Shri Vidyasagar Ji has written a Doha' (a rhyming couplet). पानी भरते देव हैं, वैभव होता दास । मृग मृगेन्द्र मिल बैठते, देख दया का वास॥ सर्वोदय शतक २९ Grandeur becomes slave, deities fetch the water, Seeing abode of mercy, lion-stag sit together. "Seeing abode of compassion ('Samavsaran') the deities remain ready in the service of the Teerthankara, grandeur becomes slave and the deer and lion sit together." 10. It takes only Antarmuhurta time (within 48 minutes) in entering and coming out from the 'Samavsaran' which is expanded in many 'Yojanas'. 11. Only five-sensed beings with mind (Samjñi) come in the 'Samavsaran'. 12. Living beings of all the three universes come in the 'Samavsaran' because 'Bhawanvasi' and 'Vyantara' deities from lower world also come there. 3.How many fasts are there of 'Samavsaran vow' and when they begin ? Observe fast on each 'Chaturdashi' (14th day of each lunar month) till one year. Thus observe 24 fasts. This vow can be started from any 'Chaturdasi' and repeat the following incantation at every bead of rosary three times on the fast day. "ओं ह्रीं जगदापद्विनाशाय सकल गुण करण्डाय श्री सर्वज्ञाय अर्हत्परमेष्ठिने नमः'' "Om Hirim Jagdapadvinashaya Sakal Gun Karandaya Shri Sarvagyaya Arhatparmestine Namah:".

1. Who is called Teerthankara ? 1. "तरंति संसार महार्णवं येन तत्तीर्थम्" i.e. By whose help the worldly ocean is crossed over, is 'Teertha' (landing place or river bank, bridge, etc. and its symbolic meaning is Religion) and initiator of this 'Teertha', (i.e. religion), is Teerthankara? 2. Religion means Right faith, Right knowledge, Right conduct, because worldly ocean is crossed over through these three, therefore these are called 'Teertha' and who preaches this 'Teertha' (religion), is called 'Teerthankara'. 2. How many 'Teerthankara' are there? Infact, there had been infinite number of 'Teerthankaras' but in 'Bharat' & 'Airavat' regions 24 Teerthankaras are born gradually one after the other during fourth period of 'Avsarpini' (The half worldly time cycle period marked with reducing height, age, power, etc.) and during third period of 'Utsarpini' (ascending cycle of time marked with increasing height, age, power, etc.), i.e. 'Dushma-Sushma'. 3. How many 'Teerthankara' exist in Videha region ? Well, 20 Teerthankara always exist in Videh region but there can be 160 Teerthankara at the most in all the five Videhas. 4. Enumerate the names of 24 Teerthankaras along with their emblems/marks of identification ? 5. At most how many Teerthankaras can exist simultaneously in two and half continent (Adhaidvipa) ? At most 170 Teerthankara can exist in Adhaidvipa (160 in Videha 5 in Bharat 5 in Airavat). 6. Whether some time 170 Teerthankara existed simultaneously ? It is heard that 170 Teerthankaras existed during time-period of Ajitnath Teerthankara. 7. How many auspicious events (Kalyanaka) take place of Teerthankaras ? Five auspicious events take place of Teerthankaras - Conception, Birth, Initiation or pen ance, Omniscience and Salvation. 8. Whether Teerthankaras of all regions, i.e. of Bharat, Airavat and Videh are en dowed with five auspicious events ? No, Teerthankaras of all Bharat and Airavat region are endowed with 5 auspicious events but in Videh Kshetra there are Teerthankaras of 2, 3 and 5 auspicious events, in two, the omniscience and salvation take place, whereas in three initiation, omniscience & salvation happen. 9. What are the pecularities of 'Teerthankaras' ? 'Teerthankaras' do not have beard, moustache. (Bodh Pahur, Teeka 32/98) 'Teerthankaras' do not drink mother's milk during their childhood but the Saudharma Indra (the Lord celestial deity) fills ambrosia in the thumb of their right hand after their birth-anointment which they suck and get grow. They accept food, clothes and ornaments only provided by the deities during their whole life (i.e. before initiation). 'Teerthankaras' are self-initiated (undertake religious initiation). There is no necessity for 'Teerthankaras' to go to temple during their childhood, as house-holder or even in the state of 'Muni'. They do not even meet any other 'Muni' during the state of house-holdership. Infernal beings of hell experience (feel) pleasure for some moments during Kalyanaks' of 'Teerthankaras'. 'Teerthankaras' bow only to 'Siddha Parmeshthi', therefore, they tell / pronounce 'Namaha Siddhebhya', i.e. 'I bow to Siddha'. Teerthankaras are endowed with 46 basic / fundamental virtues. The whole body of the Teerthankara is well proportionate, handsome & good looking. 10. Who fixes the emblem of 'Teerthankara'? When Saudharama Indra (the Lord of deities) performs auspicious anointment of 'Child - 'Teerthankara' on the 'Pandukshila' at that time which emblem (mark) is seen on the toe of his right foot, he fixes that very emblem of that 'Teerthankara' as his emblem (symbol). 11. On what 'Shila' (stone) lustral bath (birth anoinment) of which 'Teerthankara' of which region is performed ? Lustral bath (birth anointment) of 'Teerthankaras' of Bharat region is performed on 'Panduk Shila' that of Western 'Videha' region on 'Pandu Kambla Shila'; ofAiravat' region on 'Rakta Shila'; and of Eastern 'Videha' region on 'Rakta Kambla Shila'. (Triloksar, 633-634) 12. Which 'Teerthankara' was of what colour ? In the oblation of 'Kirtrim-Akirtrim - Jin Chaitya' worship the colour of Teerthankaras has been described as thus - द्वी कुन्देन्दु—तुषार—हार–धवलौ, द्वाविन्द्रनील-प्रभौ, द्वौ बन्धूक-सम-प्रभौ जिनवृषौ, द्वौ च प्रियङ्गुप्रभौ । शेषाः षोडश जन्म-मृत्यु-रहिताः संतप्त-हेम-प्रभासम् । ते संज्ञान-दिवाकराः सुर-नुताः सिद्धिं प्रयच्छन्तु नः । Some poet has said in respect of colour of Teerthankaras दो गोरे दो सांवरे, दो हरियल दो लाल। सोलह कंचन वरण हैं, तिन्हें नवाऊँ भाल। Two were of fair colour, Two darkish, two green, Two were of reddish colour, golden were sixteen. "Two were fair complexioned, two were dark complexioned, the two were greenish and two red, the rest sixteen were golden complexioned • Chandra Prabhu & Pushpadant - fair complexioned Munisuvratnath & Neminath - dark/Blue complexioned Padamprabha & Vasupujya - Red complexioned Suparshvanath & Parasvanath - Green complexioned Rest sixteen Teerthankaras - Gold/yellow complexioned. 13. Which 'Teerthankara' attained 'Moksha' (salvation) from which place ? Rishabhdeva attained 'Moksha' from 'Kailash Mountain', Vasupujya Ji from 'Champapur', Neminath Ji from 'Girnar', Mahaveer Swami from 'Pavapur' & rest 'Teerthankaras' (20) from 'Sammed Shikhar Ji', the great place of pilgrimage. 14. Enumerate 'Teerthankaras' whose names begin from ‘37'alphabet ? Adinath, Ajitnath, Abhinandannath, Anantnath, Arrnath and Ativeer (Mahaveer Swami). 15. Enumerate 'Teerthankaras' whose names begin with‘a' alphabet ? Virshabhnath, Vasupujya, Vimalnath, Vardhaman. 16. Enumerate 'Teerthankaras' whose names begin from 'A''T' alphabet ? Sambhavnath, Sumatinath, Suparshavanath, Suvidhinath, Shitalnath, Shreyamsanath, Shantinath & Sanmati. 17. How many 'Teerthankaras' are with symbols of one-sensed being ? Four - Lotus of Padamprabhu, Moon of Chandra Prabhu, Kalpvraksha' (tree of paradise) of Shitalnath and Neel Kamal (Blue Lotus) of Naminath Ji. 18. Which of the Teerthankaras' symbol is two-sensed living being ? Bhagwan Neminath's emblem is conch which is two-sensed. 19. How many 'Teerthankaras' are with symbols of inanimate (non-being) ? Three - Swastika (an auspicious emblem/fylfot) of Suparshvanath, 'Vajradanda' of Dharmanathji, Pot (Kalash) of Mallinathji. 20. How many 'Teerthankaras' are with symbols of animate beings of five senses ? Rest sixteen 'Teerthankaras' are with emblem of animate beings of five senses. 21. Tell symbols of those 'Teerthankaras' whose idols assume symbols of animals who carry luggage (load) ? Ox of Rishabhdevaji, Elephant of Ajitnathji, Horse of Sambhavnathji and Buffalo of Vasupujayaji. 22. Tell the names of symbols of 'Teerthankaras' which live in water ? Red Lotus, Crocodile, Fish, Tortoise, Blue Lotus, Conch and Serpent, these live in water. 23. Tell symbol of that one 'Teerthankara' whose body is with thorns ? There are thorns in the body of Porcupine. 24. Who is that living creature among symbols of all the 24 "Teerthankaras" who runs fastest of all ? The deer is the animal who runs fastest of all. 25. How many 'Teerthankaras' are there whose names begin with that first alphabet with which their symbol's names also begin with that very first alphabet ? Virshava (Ox) of Virshavanathji (Adinath), Santhia (fylfot) of Suparshvanath, Neel Kamal (Blue Lotus) of Naminathji, Simha (Lion) of Sanmati, Moon (Chandrma) crescent of Chandraprabhji. 26. Who is that 'Teerthankara' who took birth on the day of "Akinchanya Dharama" (Ninth day of 'Paryushan Parva', the possessionlessness) ? Veer (Mahaveer Swami). 27. Of how many Teerthankaras the marriage procession (journey of bridegroom to the bride's house) was taken out ? Of Twenty 'Teerthankaras'. 28. What is the difference between 'Teerthankaras' and common Arihantas, the Omni scient lords ? Kalyanaks (auspicious events) are performed of 'Teerthankaras', not of common 'Arihantas'. There are symbols of Teerthankaras, not of common 'Arihantas'. Samavsaran' Assembly (the place of resonant preaching of Lord 'Teerthankara') for 'Teerthankaras' is held, no such assembly is held for common Arihantas. There is Gandh Kutil for other 'Arihantas'. There are 'Gandharas' (chief disciple) of 'Teerthankaras', not of common 'Arihantas'. "Teerthankaras' possess clairvoyance (Avadhijñāna) by birth, there is no such rule for common 'Arihantas'. 'Teerthankaras' are invested with knowledge of other's thought form (Manahparyay Jñāna) as soon as they take initiation, there is no such rule for common 'Arihantas'. 'Teerthankaras' are the only son of their respective mother, while common 'Arihantas' may have many brothers and sisters. None member of'Teerthankaras' family die until they remain as a house-holder, but there is no such rule for common 'Arihantas'. Precisely, possessors of male psychic libido (Purusa Bhav Ved) become Teerthankara but common Arihant can have any of the three psychic libido. Precisely, Teerthankaras have balanced formation of their body organs (Samacaturasra Samsthan) alone but common Arihant may have any of the six. There is only rise of praised (auspicious) spatial movement (Prashsta Vihayogati) of Teerthankara but any of the two can be of common Arihantas. There will be rise of only Karmic nature causing melodious tone (Susvara Namkarma Prakrti) of the physique making Karma of Teerthankaras whereas common Arihantas can have any of the two. The living being coming from the fourth hell can not become Teerthankara, but the common Arihantas can. The mother of 'Teerthankara' sees sixteen dreams, there is no such rule for common 'Arihantas'. The emblem of 'Shrivatsa' (a particular type of mark) on the chest of'Teerthankaras' necessarily remains as a rule. There is no such rule for common 'Arihantas'. "Divya Dhwani' (Omniscient's revelation in the form of 'Omkar' sound) of 'Teerthankaras' emerges (comes out) as a rule, there is no such rule for common 'Arihantas'. 29. How many kings took consecration alongwith which 'Teerthankaras"? 4000 kings took consecration with Adinathji, 676 with Vasupujayaji, 300 each with Mallinathji and Parshvanathji. Mahaveerji took consecration (initiation) all alone and the rest 'Teerthankaras' with 1000 kings each. (Tiloypannati 4/675-76) 30. Which 'Teerthankaras' took what food stuff for the first time after the fast ? Adinathji took sugar-cane juice and the rest took milk and grains ,i.e. took many delicious food items made of milk and grains. 31. What was the complexion of donors who offered food to the 'Teerthankaras' for the first time after fast. First two donors, i.e. king Shreyansa and king Brahmdatta were of golden colour (Suvarna) and last two, i.e. king Brahmdatta and king Kool/Nandan were dark-complexioned and all other donors were of heated golden complexion. 32. From which posture different 'Teerthankaras' moved upward to 'Moksha' (salva tion)? Vrashabhnath, Vasupujaya and Neminathji (1,12,22) moved upward to 'Moksha' in sitting lotus-posture and rest all in standing posture but in Samavsaran' (place of resonant preach ing of Lord 'Teerthankaras') all 'Teerthankaras' sit in lotus-posture. 33. How many 'Teerthankaras' are there in whose 'Samavsaran' 'Aryikayen' (female ascetics) were less than 'Muni' ? In the Samavsaran of 'Dharamnathji' and 'Shantinathji', Arikayen were less in number than Muni. 34. What was the expansion - range of the Samavsaran of each Teerthankara ? Of Vrashabhnath - 12 yojan, then till Neminath 12 yojan each is to be subtracted / reduced for each Teethankara and in Parashwanath & Mahaveer 1/4 yojans each is to be reduced. Thus the Samavsaran of Parshwanath was of 1.25 yojan and that of Mahaveer it was of 1 yojan. (T.P., 4/824-25) 35. Which 'Teerthankara' left 'Samavsaran' before how many days for performing ces sation of activities of mind, speech and body (Yoga-nirodha) ? Rishabhdeva left 'Samavsaran' for performing cessation of activities of mind, speech and body before 14 days, two days before Mahaveer Swami and rest all before one month. 36. Who took least time for attaining 'Kevaljñāna' (Omniscience) ? Mallinath, who took only six days. 37. Which 'Teerthankara' took more time than others to attain 'Kevaljñāna' (Omniscience)? Rishabhdeva took 1000 years to attain 'Kewaljñāna' (Omniscience). 38. Which 'Teerthankara' had the least number of 'Gandharas'? Parasvanathji had only 10 'Gandharas'. 39. Which 'Teerthankaras' had greatest maximum number of 'Gandharas'? Sumatinathji had greatest number, i.e. 116 'Gandharas'. 40. How many Gandharas were of all the Teerthankaras ? There were total 1452 Gandharas of all the Teerthankaras. 41. Who (Teerthankar) had biggesst assembly of disciples? Padamprabha had an assembly of 3,30,000 disciples. 42. Who had eulogized 'Teerthankara' by one thousands names and where? 'Saudharama Indra' eulogized 'Teerthankara' by one thousands names after attaining 'Kevaljñāna' (Omniscience) by the Teerthankara. 43. What are the names of five celebate Teerthankara from childhood ? Vasupujaya Ji, Mallinath Ji, Neminath Ji, Parsvanath Ji and Mahaveer Swami Ji. 44. Enumerate names of 'Teerthankaras' who assumed three titles/ranks/positions ? Shantinath Ji, Kunthunath Ji & Arrnath Ji. All these three Teerthankara were possessors of three ranks - Teerthankara, Chakravarti and Kamdeva. 45. Who 'Teerthankaras' suffered calamity during 'Muni' period ? Suparshavanath Ji, Parashvanath ji & Mahaveer Swamiji. 46. The being who has bonded the karmic nature of 'Teerthankaras', in how many birth's he would move upward to 'Moksha'? Living being with two or three 'Kalyanakas' would move upward to 'Moksha' in that very birth and that with five 'Kalyanaks' will take three birth for it. 47. Who bonds nature of 'Teerthankaras' and where ? The man of the land of action (Karma Bhumi) bonds the nature of 'Teerthankaras' meditating 16 reflections and wishing welfare of the world sitting in the proximity of the foot of Kevali or Shrut Kevali (Shrut Kevali-saints well-versed in scriptural knowledge). 48. Why Teerthankaras, precisely, are twentyfour ? When Acharya Somdeva was asked this question, his reply was - "There is no unusal / transcendental in this belief because there are many objects in this universe such as planets, constellations, sign of zodiacs, dates and stars whose number is fixed as per time - conjunction of planets. Teerthankaras are excellent of all hence, the conjunction of planets at the time of their birth should also be or remains excellent. Astrologers (including Late Dr. Nemichand ji of Aara) are of the opinion that such best of all time-conjunctions of planets happen to occur only 24 times during each Dushma-Sushma time-period of one Kalpa Kala in which Teerthankara take or can take birth. Incarnations of Vishnu are also 24. Buddhists and Chiristians also accept 24 Buddhas & 24 forefathers respectively. 49. How 720 Teerthankaras are called Tees Chaubisi (Thiry set of 24 Teerthankara)? There are 5 Bharat & 5 Airavat regions in Adhaidvipa, i.e. equal to 10. In each of these regions there are 72 Teerthankaras each in all the three times (present, past, future). Hence 720 Teerthankaras are said in 10 regions concerning to all the three times.

1. What is the order/succession of the world in Bharat & Airavata Kshetra ? There are two division of time - 'Avasarpini'(descending cycle) and 'Utsarpini' (ascending cycle) in the 'Aryakhands' of Bharat-Airavata Kshetra. 'Avsarpini' time or cycle is that in which there is fall with regard to age (duration of life), stature (height), knowledge, grandeur ,etc. and 'Utsarpini' cycle is that in which there is rise in age, stature, knowledge, grandeur, etc. 2. How many years are there in a 'Kalpa Kala'? One 'Kalpa Kala'consists of 20 'Korha-Korhi'Sagar (i.e. 20x10000000x20000000) (a very long period) out of which 'Avsarpini-kala' is of 10 'Korha-Korhi' Sagar and 'Utsarpini-kala' is of 10 'Kora-Kori' Sagar. Both of these make one 'Kalpa Kala'. (Tiloyapannatti, 4/319) Illustration - This order is like 'Up' & 'Down' trains, just as the train passes to and fro from Bombay to Hawrah and Hawrah to Bombay. 3. How many kinds are there of 'Avsarpini' and 'Utsarpini' and which are they ? Six kinds of 'Avsarpini kala'are - Sushama-Sushama kala, Sushama kala, SushamaDushama kala, Dushama-Susama kala, Dushama kala and Dushama-Dushama. Contray to it, Six kinds of 'Utsarpini kala' are - Dushama-Dushama kala, Dushama kala, Dushama-Sushama kala, Sushama-Dushama kala, Sushama kala and Sushama-Sushama kala. 4. What is meaning of 'Sushama-Dushama'? The Hindi word 'Sama' (समा) is the division of time, prefix 'Su' and 'Dur' denote the meaning of good and bad respectively and according to the rule of grammar, the prefix 'Su' and 'Dur' being added seperately with 'Sama', the alphabet (स) becomes (ष) thus words 'Sushama' (सुषमा) and 'Dushama' (दुषमा) are formed which means good time and bad time respectivly. (M.P. 3/ 19) 5. Which earth remains in the first three 'Kala' of 'Avsarpini' and last three 'Kala' of 'Utsarpini' and what are their pecularities ? Bhogbhumi remains there,(i.e. land of worldly enjoyments). Following are the pecularities: Beings of Bhogbhumi take food but do not defecate excretion and urine. Human beings of this land are expert / skilled by nature in all the 64 arts, like syllabary, Mathematics, Drawing , Painting, etc. No deficient-sensed beings (Vikalendriya) and mindless five-sensed (Asamjñi Panchendriya) beings live here. There is no difference of day and night and no anguish of cold and heat is felt here. This land is full of beautiful rivers, lotus-filled oblong ponds vapika), bejewelled earth and soft grass. Human beings and animals of this place are endowed with 'Vajra-Vrashabhanaracha Samhanana' (an adamantine osseous structure) and 'Samachaturasra Samsthana' (balanced formation of body organs). Couple/twins offspring (son & daughter) are born and just after birth of this couple/twins their father and mother die of sneezing and yawn respectively. That offspring couple/twins live as husband and wife. They are called by the name of 'Arya' and 'Ariya'. Dead bodies of human beings are evaporated like camphor. There is no existence of neuter gender here, only male, female exist. They get things of enjoyments of worldly pleasure from 'Kalpavraksha'(wish-fulfilling trees). Strength equal to 9000 elephants is found in human beings of this place. (Tiloyapannati, 4/324-381) Peculiarities of 'Sushama-Sushama Kala' - 1. It is the time-period of the excellent 'Bhogabhumi'. Only pleasure and pleasure is felt here. It is exclusively an enjoyment time-period. 2. The beings of this time period attain full growth within 21 days after their birth in the following succession. Chewing the thumb lying on the bed (sleeping place) - 3 days 'Upveshan' (sitting) - 3 days 'Asthir gaman' (unsteady walking) - 3 days Sthir gaman' (stable walking) - 3 days 'Kalaguna Prapti' (attaining expertise (skills) in arts) - 3 days 'Tarunya' (attaining youth) - 3 days 'Samyaka Gun Prapti' (capability of attaining right belief) - 3 days Total 21 days Living beings of this land attain ability of attaining right-beliefafter 21 days. 3. They take food on every fourth day, (i.e. after 3 days) and that too equal to one plum. 4. In the beginning of this time period the height of human beings remains 6000 'Dhanusha' and age 3 'Palya' which decreasing gradually in the last, becomes 4000 'Dhanusha' and 2 'palya' respectively. 5. This time period is of 4 'Korha-Korhi' Sagar. The colour of body in this time-period remains like gold. (T.P., 4/324-398) (R.V. 3/29/2) Pecularities of 'Sushama Kala' - As compared to first time period gradual deficiency in pleasures begins in this time period. It is called as 'Madhyama Bhogbhumi Kala' (Medium land of enjoyments). Twins born during this time-period complete their full growth in 35 days. Just as it takes 3 days each for the 7 kinds of growths in the first time-period, these 7 growths in this time period are completed at the rate 5 days each. They take food on every third day after two days equal to one beleric myrobalan ('Bahera'). In the beginning of this time-period the height of human beings remains 4000 'Dhanusha' and age 2 'Palya' which decreasing gradually remains / becomes 2000 Dhanusha and one Palya respectively in the last. This time-period is of 3 'Korha-Korhi' Sagar and colour of the body in this time-period remains white. (Tiloypannati 4/399-406) Pecularities of 'Sushama-Dushama' - As compared to the second time-period gradual deficiency in pleasures begins in this time period. It is called 'Jaghanya Bhogbhumi' (Low Bhogbhumi). Twins born during this time-period complete their full growth in 49 days. Just as it takes 5 days each for 7 kinds of growths in the second time-period these are completed in this time-period at the rate of seven days per growth. They take food on every alternate day equal to one emblic myrobalan (Ambla). In the beginning of this time-period the height of human beings remains 2000 'Dhanusha' and age one 'Palya' which decreasing gradually becomes 500 'Dhanusha' (Triloksar, 783) and age one 'Purva Koti'. This time-period is of 2 'Korha-Korhi' Sagar and the colour of the body remains blue. (R.V. 3/29/2) When some less of one eighth part of this period remains to be completed, births of 'Kulkaras' begins, then they instruct human beings embarrassed by the winding up of 'Bhogbhumi' and teach them the art of living. They are also called 'Manu'. The last 'Kulkara' gives birth to first 'Teerthankara'. (Tiloypannati 4/407-516) Pecularities of 'Dushama-Sushama' kala - This time-period consists of more pain and less pleasure and 'Karamabhumi' (land of action) begins just from the beginning of this time-period. Because of disappearance of 'Kalpavraksha' now six occupations begin for livelihood Defence services (weilding of sword, etc. ,weapons), ink (writing work, accountancy, etc.), agriculture, knowledge/learning, handicrafts and trade these are six occupations. 'Shalaka Purusha' (Particular great personage like Teerthankara, Chakravarti, etc.). Great persons take birth and are salvated in this very period. One who is born in the fourth period can attain salvation in the fifth time period but who is born in the fifth time period can not attain salvation in the fifth period. The rule of twins-birth now comes to an end and rearing of children by parents begins. Human beings take food daily (once). In the beginning of this time-period the height of human beings remains 500 Dhanusha' and age one 'Purva Koti' which decreasing gradually becomes 7 hands and age 120 years in the last. This time period is of one 'Korha-Korhi' Sagar less 42000 years; human beings of five colours exist here. Human beings and animals are found of six 'Samhnana' and of six 'Samsthana'. (Triloksar : 783-85) Note - 84 Lakh x 84 Lakh x 1 Crore years = Purva Koti years. Pecularities of 'Dushama time-period - Human beings of this time-period are slow-witted. Human beings of this time-period take food many times (taking two times can also be said as many times). In the beginning of this time-period, the height of human beings remains 7 hands and age 120 years which decreasing gradually becomes 3 hands or 3.5 hands and age 20 years in the last This time-period is of 21000 years. Human beings of five colours but of lack-luster live here. Human beings and animals of last three 'Samhananas' exist here. One 'Kalki' (Oppressive king for Jain religion/ aggressive) and one 'Upkalki' (Rebel-lious king who acts against religion) take birth in a gap of 1000 years and 500 years respectively in this time-period. The last 21st 'Kalki' king 'Jala Manthan' shall demand tax from Muniraj, but what 'Muniraj' should give? The king asks him to give first morsel as tax. Muni Maharaja gives that morsel and comes back considering it a 'Pindaharana Amtraya' (obstacle of snatching food from hand). He comes to know by 'Avadhijñāna' (clairvoyance) that 'Pancham Kala' (Dushama time-period) is now on the verge of its expiry and his remaining age is only of three days. All the four (Veerangaja Muni, Saravashri Aryika, Agnila Shravaka, Pangushri Shravika) accept 'Sallekhna' (physical mortification for holy death) and relinquishing the body on the morning of 'Kartika Krishna Amavashya', become deity in Saudharma heaven and in the midday Asur Kumar deity kills that hostile to religion, 'Kalki' and at sun-set, the fire is extinguished. Thus the 'Panchama Kala' ends. (Tiloypannati 4/1486-1552) Note - As a rule one 'Avadhijñāni' (who possesses claivoyance knowledge) Muni remains in the period of each 'Kalki' king. Pecularities of 'Dushama-Dushama' time-period - 1. In the beginning of this time period the height of human beings remains 3 hands or 3.5 hands and age 20 years which decreasing gradually becomes 1 hand and age 15 or 16 years. 2. This time-period is also of 21000 years and the colour of the body remains black like smoke. 3. The food of the human beings of this time-period is roots and tuber and fruits and they roam about in jungles naked, being homeless. 4. Human beings of this time-period behave like animals and remain cruel, deaf, blind, dumb, ugly like monkey, hunchbacked, dwarf and suffer from many diseases. 5. Who take birth in this time-period come from hell and 'Tiryancha' body-form and go back there after death. 6. In the end of this 'Dusama-Dusama' time period 'Samvartaka' (lava) (stormy wind causing demolition of mountain, etc.) wind blows up to the last end of all directions demolishing mountains, trees and crushing the earth ,etc. due to which all living beings become unconscious (fainted) and some also die. Being oppressed with this, human beings and animals enter, on their own, 'Vijayardha' mountain and in the valley of GangaSindhu rivers for shelter and some compassionate Vidyadhara and deities take many human beings and 'Tiryancha' with them and place them there safely. After this 7 kinds of bad rain falls for seven days each. That time it rains of cloud hoar-frost, saltish water, poison, smoke, dust, thunderbolt, and fearsome burning flames (unpleasant to the sight) with unfathomable thunder sound for 49 days (7 days of each rain). Remaining human beings are destroyed by these disastrous rains. The earth becomes crushed and converted into crushed powder up to thickness of one 'Yojana' being burnt by the rain of poison and fire. Thus the 'Avsarpini' time-period of 10 'Kora-Kori' Sagar comes to an end. After this in the first time period of 'Utsarpini Kala' rains of seven kinds of substances - water, milk, ghee, nectar, juice, etc., fall respectively for seven days each which also continues for 49 days. The earth becomes oilish ( loving) and yields grains and medicines. vine, creeper, bush, tree, etc. begin to grow. Human beings and animals (who took shelter in vally, caves ,etc.) come out from the caves feeling the cool smell. Human beings behave like animals at that time and eat fruits of trees, roots, leaves, etc. being distressed of hunger. Age, height, wisdom, strength, etc. begin to increase in this timeperiod. The name of this time period is also Dushama-Dushama Kala'. (Tiloypannati 4/1558-1575) Dushama Kala - Age, height, wisdom, etc. also increase gradually in this time-period. When 1000 years remains in the completion (end) of this 'Kala' 14 'Kulkaras' are born in this time-period who teach human beings of their particular conduct according to their lineage and also cooking food with the fire etc. (Tiloypannati 4/1588-1590) Dushama - Sushama Kala - Gradually increasing age, height, strength, etc., in this time-period, the first 'Teerthankara Mahapadama' (soul of Raja Shrenika) will take birth from the last 'Kulkara' and afterwards 23 more Teerthankara will also born. Last Teerthankara will be 'Anantvirya' whose age will be of one 'Purva Koti' years and height 500 'Dhanusha'. Further comes the fourth time-period, Sushama-Dushama, the fifth time period, Sushama and the sixth time-period Sushama-Sushama. There will be respectively low, medium and excellent 'Bhogbhumi' in these three time-periods. Age and height will be gradually increasing in these periods. One 'Kalpakala' is completed after expiry of sixth - Sushama-Sushama time period. After elapse of such innumerable 'AvsarpiniUtsarpini Kala' one 'Hunda Avsarpini Kala' comes during which some improbable events happen. 'Hunda Avsarpini Kala' is going on in the present during which some unusual events are happening, for instance - It began to rain even before some time left over for the expiry of the third time-period Sushama-Dushama and 'Vikal-chatushka (deficient-sensed beings having two, three, four senses and mindless five sensed) began to take birth and the 'Kalpavraksha' were vanished and the beginning of 'Karama bhumi' took place in this very time-period. taking birth by first Teerthankara and his passing away for emancipation also took place in the third time-priod. Defeat of 'Chakravarti'. Originating pedigree of Brahmin class by Bharat Chakravarti. Discontinuation of Jinadharma took place from (emancipation of) the ninth 'Teerthankara' to the '16 Teerthankara', (i.e. there were not any Muni, Aryika, Shravaka, Shravika at that time). What was the time span of discontinuation of Jina Dharma' ? It was of 1/4 Palya between 9th and 10th Teerthankara, of 1/2 Palya between 10th and 11th, of 3/4 Palya between 11th and 12th, of 1 Palya between 12th and 13th, of 3/4 Palya between 13th and 14th, of 1/2 Palya between 14th and 15th, of 1/4 Palya between 15th and 16th Teerthankara, i.e. total discontinuation remained of four Palya). Only 58 'Shalaka Purusha' (great personage) took birth in Dushama-Sushama time period. Rishabha Deva took birth in the third time-period and also emancipated in that very period. Three Teerthankaras were also 'Chakarvarti' and 'Triprishtha' was a first 'Narayana' and afterwards his very soul became Bhagwan 'Mahavira', thus out of 63 Shalaka Purusha 5 less were born ,i.e. = 58 'Shalaka Purusha' remained in this time-period. 11 Rudras (who accepting consecration/initiation of Digamber saints became corrupt afterwards) and 9 quarrelsome 'Narada' existed in this time-period. Affliction were caused to three Teerthankara when they were in the state of Muni (7th, 23rd and 24th Teerthankara). Existence of 'Kalki' and 'Upkalki'. False deities and impious monks also remain in the third, fourth and the fifth time-period. Excessive rain and lack of rain, earthquake, falling down of thunderbolt, etc. Taking birth by Teerthankara in places other than Ayodhya and passing away for final emancipation from places other than 'Sammed Shikharji'. (Tiloypannati 4/1637-1645) 6. Whether the whole 'Bharat-Airavat' regions are affected by these time-periods? No, In five 'Malechha Khanda' and in Vijayardha series of 'Vidyadharas' situated in Bharat-Airavat Kshetras, gradual increase and decrease occurs like Dushama-Sushama time-period from its beginning to end. (Tiloypannati 4/1629) 7. What penal provision remains in vogue in the final stage of Bhogbhumi? First five 'Kulkara' used to punish offenders only with speaking 'Ha', i.e. 'Oh! You did wrong', further five Kulkara with 'Ha-Ma', i.e. 'Oh! You did wrong, don't do again', and remaining Kulkaras with 'Ha-Ma-Dhika', i.e. 'Oh! You did wrong, don't do again, you are reproached'. Thus they used to give such kinds of punishments. 8. What is the order of time-period in Videha Kshetra, and Syambhooraman Dvipa and Syambhooraman Sea ? There is continuous/existence of imperceptible minute changes like beginning period of the fourth time-period in Videha Kshetra and like Dushama time-period in the other portion of Syambhooraman Dvipa and in the Symbhooraman Sea. There is continuous existence of the state of affairs like first time-period in the celestial life-course and of the sixth timeperiod in the infernal life-course. (Here there is sense/implication of intense pleasure and intense pain, not of Age ,etc.), (Triloksar, 884) 9. Whether such huge measurements of living beings exists ? It seems somewhat strange ? Some evidences have been found in the present which indicate that such huge measurement of living beings is not strange but seems quite correct. Some such evidences are as follows : According to a report of excavation done in the sea-level of Dwarika by the Sea Archaeological Division of the Institute of Sea-Science, the height of houses sunk in the sea is 200 to 600 meters and their doors are 20 meter high, especially when-these remains are left over after burning of Dwarika by inauspicious luminous effigy. If doors are 20 meter high (about 70 feet) then human beings living there must not have been less than of 50-60 feet's height. According to Jain scriptures, height (Avgahana) of Bhagwan Neminath measured 10 'Dhanusha', i.e. 60 feet. Therefore, it is proved that so much huge measurement of living beings existed. That Dinosaur which modern science regards 30 to 50 feet long is, precisely a form of lizard before crores of years from today. One glacier (snow-rock) was displaced in Masco in 1993, one human skeleton was found inside it which was 23 feet long. Scientists consider (acknowledge) it 2 to 4 lakh years old. According to 'Shri Rajmal Ji' of Delhi, this human skeleton is kept in the museum of Masco still today. One skeleton of a lizard of many lakhs years old is kept in the museum of Baroda (Gujrat) length of which is 10 to 12 feet. Leather shoes of lakhs of years ago have been found in the caves of Tibet, length of which is of many feet. According to a book 'Bharat Aur Manava Sanskriti' by ('Vishambar Nath pandey', page no. 112-115) it has been proved from the excavation of MohanJodro - Harrappa that the age and height of human beings of earlier time-period had been long enough. One trunk (main part of the body) of a cat which is 10 lakhs years old has been found in Florida and its teeth are 7 inch long. One skeleton (structure) of a 'Kankronch' (an insect) of 572 crores years old has been found in America. These 'Kankronch' used to be as big as a rat. Three lakhs years old bones of elephants have been found in 'Castle the 'Guddo' near Rome, teeth of some of these elephants are 10 feet long. 1.- Males of the land of worldly enjoyments remains endowed with 72 kinds of arts / skills and women with 64 (Vasunandi Shravakachar, 263)

1. When Jainism was established and by whom ? Jainism is ab-aeterno-ad-infinitum, i.e. it existed from beginningless time and will exist till infinite time. Its founder is not also Teerthankara Rishabhdeva, Teerthankara Parshwanath and Teerthankara Mahaveer. Certainly it is so that from time to time its enforcement goes on happening through Teerthankaras and this religion advances only through them. Just as the Constitution of India does not change, only there is change in the government, similarly the doctrines (constitution/rules & regulation) of Jainism do not change, only the government (Teerthankaras) used to go on changing. But according to the opinion of general people some regard it a branch of Buddhism or its origination from Buddhism and some regard it a branch of Hindu religion but it is not so. 2. How the antiquity of Jainism is proved according to Archaeology department ? The antiquity of Jainism is proved according to the Archaeology department thus - The wellknown Archaeologist Dr. Rakhaldas Banarjee has investigated Indus valley civilization. On a seal No. 449 found here in excavation something has been written. Prof. Pran Nath Vidyalankar has read it as 'Jineswar' (Jin-e-e-israh - जिन-इ-इ-इसर:). According to the statement of the Archaeologist Raibhadur Chandra one idol has been found in the seals of the Indus valley in which disposition of renunciation and aversion from worldly enjoyments identical with the idol of Lord (Teerthankara) Rishabhdeva in standing posture of Mathura are seen. Moreover, the idol which is engraved on seal No. 2 F.G.H.., the disposition of renunciation is precisely clear on it and below the figure of the idol there is also the figure of the bull which is symbol of Teerthankara Rishabhdeva. On the basis of all these facts, many learned have regarded Jainism as of the period of Indus valley civilization. The Indus Valley civilization has been accepted 5000 years old from today. The main part of the nude human body found in Harappa also indicates the existence of Jain Teerthankaras in Indus valley civilization. Director General of the central Archaeological department T. N. Ramchandran has written after profound study - 'The engraved idol in meditative relaxation posture found in the investigation of Harappa, is fully a Digamber Jain idol'. The 'Kankali Teela' of Mathura is most important from the view-point of Jain Archaeology. In its excavation, apart from an extremely ancient deities-created mound (a domeshaped monuments containing relics), (whose creation-period is not known) one hundred ten rock inscriptions and hundreds of idols have been found which range from second century B.C. to 12th century. According to Archaeologists the above mentioned mound was rebuilt in eighth century B.C..According to Dr. Vincent A. Smith it is proved from the investigation related to Mathura that the existence of Jain Teerthankaras was there much earlier from Christian era. Recognition of Teerthankara Rishabhdeva, etc. twenty four Teerthankaras was in vogue from ancient time. (Jain Siddhant Shikshan : Muni Pramansagar ji) It is proved from the rock inscription of Hathi gufa got caused carved by Emperor Kharvel that the installation and worshipping of the idol of Rishabhdeva is in vogue from ancient time. 3. How the antiquity of Jainism is proved according to Vaisnava religion ? It is known from the investigation of various scriptures and mythological texts of Vaishnava religion that how much antiquity was there of Jainism which we are presenting here - 1. It is written in Shivpurana - अष्ट षष्ठिसु तीर्थेषु यात्रायां यत्फलं भवेत् । श्री आदिनाथ देवस्य स्मरणेनापि तद्भवेत् ॥ The fruit which is gained by the pilgrimage of 68 places of pilgrimage that much fruit is gained merely remembering Teerthankara Adinath. 2. It has been told in Mahabharat - युगेयुगे महापुण्यं दृश्यते द्वारिका पुरी । अवतीर्णो हरियंत्र प्रभासशशि भूषणः । रेवताद्रौ जिनो नेमियुगादि विमलाचले । ऋषीणामाश्रमादेव मुक्ति मार्गस्य कारणम् । Dwarkapuri is a great zone, in which Hari (Shri Krishna) was incarnated, which is made splendid like the moon in the rediant area and Neminath on Girnar mountain and Adinath on Kailash "(Astapada) had existed. This region being a hermitage of Risiees (great ascetics), is instrumental of salvation path. 3. It has been said in Mahabharat - आरोहस्व रथं पार्थ गांडीवं करे कुरु । निर्जिता मेदिनी मन्ये निर्गुथा यदि सन्मुखे । O Arjuna! ride on the chariot and take Gandeeva-bow in hand. I know, infront of whom Digamber Muni is coming, his victory is certain. 4. It has been said in Rigveda - | मैं त्रैलोक्य प्रतिष्ठितानां चतुर्विंशति तीर्थंकराणाम् । ऋषभादिवर्द्धमानान्तानां सिद्धानां शरणं प्रपद्ये॥ There are twentyfour Teerthankara renowned in all the three worlds beginning from Rishabhadeva up to Vardhman Swami. I take refuge of those liberated souls. 5. It has been said in Rigveda - मैं नग्नं सुधीरं दिग्वाससं ब्रह्मगर्भ सनातनं उपैमि वीरं । पुरुषमहँतमादित्य वर्णं तसमः पुरस्तात् स्वाहा ॥ I take refuge of nude, resolute, brave, naked, eternal Omniscient like Brahama, the suncomplexioned supreme being. 6. It has been said in Yajurveda - | ॐ नमोऽर्हन्तो ऋषभो । I pay my obeisance to Rishabhdeva named omniscient. 7. It has been written in Dakshina Murti Sahasranama treatise - | शिव उवाच। जैन मार्गरतो जैनो जितक्रोधो जितामयः।। Shivaji told - Who takes pleasure in the Jain path such follower of Jainism overcomes anger as well as diseases. 8. It has been said in Nag Purana - दशभिजितैर्विप्रैः यत्फलं जायते कृते । मुनेरर्हत्सुभक्तस्य तत्फलं जायते कलौ । What fruit is gained by feeding ten Brahmins in 'Satayuga', the same fruit is gained by giving food to a Arihant -devotee Muni in this Kaliag. 9. There is narration of Rishabhdeva in chapter 2 to 6 of the fifth canto of Bhagwat the gist of which, is that out of fourteen Manus Rishabhdeva took birth as the grand son of first Manu Swambhoo and the son of Nabhi who was the first preacher of Jainism. Euological prayers of Rishabhdeva have been described in 141 precepts of Rigveda. There are many such examples in many Hindu texts. 4. How the antiquity of jainism is proved according to scholars / learned ? A German scholar Dr. Jacobi is in agreement with this very view / option that the period of Lord Rishabhdeva is innumerable years earlier from now. In an English work captioned 'Bhagwan Aristnemi' written byShri Harisataya Bhattacharya Teerthankara Neminath has been accepted as a historical great personage. According to Dr. Vinsent Smith-Mathura search has given great support to the Jain traditions which are the incontrovertible proof of the antiquity and universality of Jain religion. Realization of Jain mound (Stoopa) of Mathura and idols of 24Teerthankaras with symbols prove that Jainism existed even before Christian era. Professor Chakravarti of Madras has confirmed in the book ,'Vaidik Sahitya ka Tulnatmak Addhyayan' that the Jainism is as old as the Hindu religion. Dr. Radhakrishnan has clearly written in 'Indian philosopy' on page 287 that people used to worship Teerthankara Rishabhdeva up to 1st century B.C. Shri Lokmanya Balgangadhar Tilak had delivered a speech in Baroda on 30th November, 1904 that the Jainism has left uninterrupted deep lasting effect on Brahmin religion "The priciple of non-violence existed in Jainism from very beginning. Today the Brahmins and all Hindu people are demanding which restriction on meat-eating and drinking of alcohol that is, precisely the legacy of Jainism and is precisely the influence of Jainism. The Jainism, which propagates and spreads mercy, compassion and non-violence will remain everlasting ad-inifinitum". Dr. Kalidas Nag had published which photograph of the nude-idol in his book 'Discovery of Asia' was 10 thousand years old. Dr. Nag has accepted this photograph corresponding to Jain idol. Shri Chitsang has thoroughly investigated the principles of Lord Rishabhdeva in Chinese language in 'Upaya Hirdaya Shashtra'. The personality and religion of Lord Rishabhdeva has greatly influenced the learned of Chinese language. Professor Jeosef Taksy of Itly has found one idol of Teerthankara in Tibbat which he took to Rome. It is made clear from this idol that sometime Jainism was in vogue also in Tibbat. It is proved by the statements/writings of Greek writers that Paythogoras Daijenesh, like Greek metaphyscicians, took education - initiation (restraint-vow ,etc.) from Jain Saints. Kalyan Muni went with King Alexandar in his country for propagation of religion. The well-known Archealogist of Japan Prof. Hazime Nakamura writes that which Chinese translated-editions of Buddhist texts are available, there is mention of the subject related with the first Teerthankara Rishabhdeva. Japanese are not unfamiliar with the pesonality of Teerthankara Rishabhdeva. Japanese identify Rishabhdeva by the name of 'Rakooshava'. 5. What is written in the treatises of Buddhism about Jainism ? It is written in Buddha Mahavagga - A great number of nude saints (Digamber Sadhoo) were delivering religious sermons on each road of Vaishali. It is written in Aguttar Nikaya - the son of Nath (Teerthankara Mahavir) was omniseer, having infinite knowledge and fully alert at every moment and was placed in the form of Omniscient. Teerthankara Rishabhdeva has been told as an unattached and passionless Teerthankar and a real spiritual authority in Manjoo Shrikalpa text. In Niyayabindu, Teerthanaka Mahaveer has been described as Omniscient, i.e. Teerthankara having omniscience, a real spiritual authority. It is written in Majjhimnikaya-Teerthankara Mahaveer was an Omniscient, omniseer and a scholar of entire knowledge and philosophy. It is written in Deergha Nikaya-Lord Mahaveer is a Teerthankara, is worshippable by human beings and is Gandharacharya ,i.e. a spiritual authority 6. Which is the number of incarnation of Rishabha (Rishabhavtara) out of 22 incarnation of Vishnu ? According to Vaishnava religon incarnation number eight. Exercise - Whether correct or incorrect ? Jainism was founded by Teerthankara Mahaveer. Jainism is also found in foreign countries. One learned has proved Teerthankara Neminath as a historical person. Paythogoras was not taught by Jain saints. Japanese recognise Teerthankara Rishabhdeva by the name of 'Rakooshava' Search elsewhere - 26 names of Vishnu have been given in Vaishnava religion. Apply definition of those names on Jainism. In which treatise of Vaishnava religion Vatrasana ,etc. nine sons of King Rishabhdeva have been told? Who philoshoper has told that all the four Vedas eulogize Teerthankara Rishabhdeva?

MAHA MANTRA NAMOKAR JAIN CONCEPT OF PRAYER The Great Incantation "NAMOKAR" Namo Arihantanam, णमो अरिहंताणं Namo Siddhanam, णमो सिद्धाणं Namo Airiyanam, णमो आइरियाणं Namo Uvajjhayanam, णमो उवझायाणं Namo Loye Savva Sahunam, णमो लोए सव्व साहूणं My Obeisance to Shri Arihant Ji, the Omniscient. My Obeisance to Shri Siddha Ji, the Liberated Soul. My Obeisance to Shri Airiyanam Ji (Acharya Ji), the Preceptors. My Obeisance to Shri Upadhyaya Ji, the spiritual Teacher. My Obeisance to Shri all Sadhu Ji, found in the whole universe. 1. What is Mantra ? (incantation) ? (1) Which contains infinite power, infinite meaning, is incantation. (2) Merely reciting which the intended work is accomplished, is incantion. 2. What is 'Namokar Mantra', in which language and metre it is written ? 'Namokar Mantra' is that in which obeisance is paid offered to all the five 'Parmeshthies'. It has been written in 'Prakrit' language and the metre is 'Arya'. 3. Why any particular person has not been saluted in this incantation ? Any particular person is not saluted in this incantation but the beings (souls) endowed with qualities (attributes) have been respectfully paid obeisance. Because it is the pecularity of Jain Philosophy that the personality, not any particular person, is saluted. 4. Who composed this "Namokar Mantra" ? Nobody composed this incantation. It existed from the beginningless time and will continue so i.e. it has neither beginning nor end. 5. Who Acharya had put it in writing form for the first time and in what treatise ? Acharya Shri Puspadant Ji Maharaj had put it in writing form in the first part of "Satkhandagam" treatise as 'Mangalacharan' (Invocatory preamble - auspicious beginning for the success of his work) in the second century. 6. Give some synonymous words for Namokar Mantra ? 1. Anadinidhan Mantra - It is eternal incantation, i.e. it has neither beginning nor end. 2. Aprajit Mantra - It can not be defeated by any one. 3. Maha Mantra - It is great and best of all the Mantras. 4. Mool Mantra - The Original Mantra. It is the root of all incantations. There is no tree without root, similarly no incantation can withstand without it. 5. Mirtiyunjaya mantra - That which wins even the death. The death can be overcome with iti.e. the salvation can be attained by meditating this incantation. 6. Sarva Siddhidayak Mantra - All supernatural powers and “Siddhis/accomplishments are attained by repeating this incantation. 7. Taaran-Taran mantra - One ownself crosses over the ocean of the world alongwith others with the help of this incantation. 8. Adi Mantra - It is the first of all incantations i.e. it is the first source of all incantations. 9. Panch Namaskar mantra - Incantation saluting all the five 'Parmeshthies'. 10. Mangal Mantra - It is the first auspicious incantation among all other incantations. 11. Kewal Jñãn mantra - The Omniscience can also be attained by this incantation. 7. How many incantations have originated from the 'Namokar Mantra' ? Eighty four lac incantations have originated from this Mantra'. 8. In which places this 'Mantra' should be recited ? It should be recited at every step, i.e. in grief, in pleasure, in place of fear, in every path, in terrible place, in the battle-field, just as - दुःखे सुखे भयस्थाने, पथि दुर्गे रणेऽपि वा। श्री पञ्चगुरु मन्त्रस्य, पाठः कार्यः पदे पदे॥ णमोकार मंत्र माहात्म्य, १२॥ “Namokar Mantra” be recited, At every step, in all places, During pain-pleasure, in war, And in all terrible places. 9. Whether 'Namokar Mantra' can be recited in or at impure places ? This 'Namokar Mantra' can always be remembered at all places - pure or impure but should be uttered at pure places. At impure places, it should only be read (repeated) in mind alone. It is also said: अपवित्रः पवित्रोऽवा सुस्थितो दुःस्थितोऽपि वा। ध्यायेत्पञ्च नमस्कारं, सर्वपापैः प्रमुच्यते॥ पूजा पीठिका All sins are destroyed when meditating the 'Panch Namaskar Mantra', matters little, whether the place is pure or impure or the meditator is well settled or ill-settled". 10. Whether we gain equal (alike) fruit irrespective of place where it is repeated ? गृहे जपफलं प्रोक्त वने शतगुणं भवेत् । पुण्यारामे तथारण्ये सहस्रगुणितं मतम् ।। पर्वते दशसहस्रं च नद्यां लक्षमुदाहृतं । कोटि देवालये प्राहुरनन्तं जिनसत्रिधौ ।। (Namokar Mantra Kalpa, p.105) No, By adoration of Namokar Mantra in home one gains its fruit only one-fold, in forest hundred times, in garden and dense forest thousand times, on mountains ten thousand times, on the bank of a river, lakhs times, in Jina temples crore times and infront of Jinendra Deva infinite times. Therefore, for accomplishing desired matter (or activity) it is relatively better that one should worship (repeat) this Mantra infront of Jinendra Deva or in Jina Temple. 11. How the Namokar Mantra was proved as the best one through experiment ? Ritual performance of 'Namokar Mantra' was held at Gwalior, one crore times repitition/ recitation of this 'Mantra' was done. Two plants were planted in two different flower-pots to observe the feelings of that place. Ordinary water was poured daily in one plant and other was watered with the water consecrated by recitation of the 'Mantra'. It was seen after some days that the plant which was watered with consecrated water was growing at a very fast rate (speed) while the other which was watered with ordinary water was growing very slowly. 12. How many couplets, alphabets, Matrayen (intra-syllabic vowel symbols) consonants and vowels are there in 'Namokar Mantra'? Note - 1. Consonants with vowels are to be counted here such as in णमो अरिहंताणं - ण, म, रि, ह, ता, ण = 6, also count further in this way. Note - 2. Alphabets are 35 but vowels are 34 because according to Mantra scripture "अ" is elisioned in णमो अरिहंताणं पद verse. Counting मात्राएँ (inter-syllabic-symbols) - I=One (Laghu), S = 2 (Guru). Note - In "Prakrit" language ए, ऐ, ओ, औ are vowels which are of three kinds - short vowel, long vowel and wet vowel (हस्व, दीर्घ, और प्लुत) (Shri Dhavla book, 13/45/247) Therefore regarding ‘ए' in 'लोए' as short vowel, there will be 58 'Matrayen'. 13. How many words are there in each incantation signifying "Parmeshthi" ? पणतीस सोल छप्पण चदुद्गमेगं च जवहज्झाए। परमेट्ठीवाचयाणं अण्णं च गुरुवएसेण॥ द्रव्य संग्रह, ४९ Meaning - Repeat / recite and meditate the incantations consisting of 35, 16,6,5,4, 2 and 1 alphabet signifying Parmeshthi and also recite other incantations as per spiritual instructions of the Guru. You have already read above the incantation consisting of 35 alphabets. Furthur incantation consisting of 16 alphabets is - अर्हत्सिद्धाचार्योपाध्यायसर्वसाधुभ्यो नमः । अथवा अरिहन्त सिद्ध आइरिया उवज्झाया साधु। "Arhatsiddhacharyopaddhayayasarvasadhubhyo Namah" or "Arihant Siddha Airiya Uvajjhaya Sadhu" Incantation of 6 alphabets - अरिहन्त सिद्ध या अरिहन्त साधु । Arihanta Siddha or Arihant Sadhu. Incantation of 5 alphabets - असिआउसा या नम: सिद्धेभ्यः । Asiausa or Namah Siddhebhya. Incantation of 4 alphabets - अरिहन्त या असिसाहू । Arihanta or Asisahoo Incantation of 2 alphabets - सिद्ध या अहँ । Siddha or Arham Incantation of 1 alphabets - अ, ओम, र्ह्रं, श्रीं और ह्रीं । A, Om, Hiram, Shrim & Hrim 14. How "Panch Parmesthi" are conceived in the word 'Om' ? “Om” consists of first alphabet of all the five Permesthi (five supreme divinities) as has been said. अरहंता असरीरा आइरिया तह उवज्झाया मुणिणो। पढमक्खरणिप्पण्णो ओंकारो पञ्च परमेट्ठी ॥ द्रव्य संग्रह टीका ४९ Meaning - By combining first alphabet of all the five 'Parmeshthi' the word 'Om or "" is formed. 'अ' of Arihant, 'अ' of "अशरीरी" (an another name of Siddha Parmesthi is terti' i.e. without body, 'आ' of Achharya, 'उ' of Upadhyaya and 'म' of Sahu (an another name of Sadhu is Muni). Thus combining "अ + अ + आ + उ + म " the word 'Om'or is formed. The figure of 'Om' is also written thus "" 15. Why 'Namokar Mantra' is recited 9 or 108 times ? The number 9 is eternal. If we multiply it by any number then by adding together all digits of its product (result obtained by multiplication) the result comes to '9', for example - 9x3 = 27 (2+7=9), 4x9 = 36 (3+6=9). Therefore, to attain eternal status (abode in Moksha), the 'Namokar Mantra' is recited 9 times. Influx of Karmas is effected through 108 doors, there fore, to prevent (check) influx of Karmas, the 'Namokar Mantra' is recited (repeated) 108 times. 'Namokar Mantra' can be repeated (read) 27 times, in 'Repentance' or as an alter native of 108 breathings (exhailing and inhailing air) 9 or 36 times. 16. How the Namokar Mantra is read/recited in breathings (exhaling & inhaling air) ? The 'Namokar Mantra' is read in three breathings - 'Namo Arihantaram' while inhaling, 'Namo Siddharam' while exhaling, again while inhaling, 'Namo Ayiriyanam', 'Namo Uvajjhayanam', while exhaling and in the end while in haling air recite 'Namo Loye' and 'Sabbsahunam' at the time of exhaling air. 17. What are the methods of repeating incantation / counting the beads of rosary ? There are three methods of counting incantation/counting the beads of rosary - 'Kamal Jap', i.e. counting incantation taking support of eight petalled lotus, 'Hastanguli Jap', i.e. counting incantation taking support of the fingers of the hand and 'Mala Jap', i.e. counting the beads of rosary. 1 - Method of Kamal Jap - Think of a white eight-petalled lotus in ownself's heart. Imagine twelve yellow colour points on each of its petals as well as twelve points on its central circular shaped-pericarp. Now repeat the incantation on each of its 108 points. 2 - Method of Hastangul Jap - The process of reciting incantation on the fingers is this - Beginning this incantation from the middle joint of the middle finger and coming on upside joint of that very finger and from there moving on the upside joint of the fore finger come by and by down ward on the last joint of that very finger and from there moving on the last joint of the ring finger and coming upward on this finger by and by come on the first joint of that very ring finger. Thus repeating the incantation nine times each (one round on the fingers consists 9 times) the one time repeating incantion (one Jap) completes by taking 12 such rounds i.e. total incantation becomes 108 (9 x 12 = 108) 3 - Mala Jap (counting the beads of rosary) - Count the beads of rosary by a rosary of 108 beads. (Mangal Mantra Namokar : Eke Anuchintan, p-72-74) 18. In which direction utterence/pronunciation of 'Mantra', and meditation should be performed ? East or North faced direction has been said to be auspicious for utterence of 'Mantra'; repeating beads of rosary (telling beads) and for meditation because there is different fruit of each direction. East - Mohantak (It is destroyer of delusion). South - Pragyantaka (It is destroyer of wisdom). West - Padmanatka (It is destroyer of heart feelings) North - Vighnantaka (It is destroyer of obstacles/hinderences). 19. What are the kinds of repetition of incantation according to Acharyas on the basis of pronunciation ? चतुर्विधा हि वाग्वैखरी मध्यमा पश्यन्ती सूक्ष्माश्चेति। (तत्त्वानुशासन, पृ. ६६) 'Chaturvidha hi vagvaikhri Madhyama Pashyanti Sukshmascheti.' (Tattvanushashan, p-66) 1. Vaikhri - Repeating incantation by speaking loudly so that others may also hear. 2. Madhyama - In this lips do not stir but inside the tongue stirs. 3. Pashyanti - In this neither the lips nor the tongue stirs, only there is thinking over/meditation of incantation in the mind. 4. Sukshma - Which was the meditation of the incantation in the mind, leaving that also, is Sukshma (subtle) repetition of incantation. Where the difference between the worshipper and the object of worship ,(i.e. worshippable) ends, i.e. where the support of the incantation is left over, that very is Sukshma repetition of the incantation. 20. How many fasts are observed in the vow of Namokar Mantra ? 35 fasts are observed in the vow of Namokar Mantra. 21. How many fasts are observed in each of which lunar/solar dates in this vow ? 5 fasts of the fifth day, 7 of the seventh day, 9 of the 9th day and 14 of the fourteenth day of the lunar/solar months are observed in this vow. 22. When this vow is started ? This vow is started from the seventh day of the light lunar month of "Asar" or from any fifth, seventh, ninth or fourteenth lunar/solar day of any lunar/solar month. 23. What is the effect of this incantation ? This Panch Namaskar Mantra is the destroyer of all the sins and is the first auspicious incantation of all other auspicious, just as - एसो पञ्च णमोयारो सव्वपावप्पणासणो । मङ्गलाणं च सव्वेसिं पढमं होई मङ्गलं ॥ The word "Mangal" is defined in two ways. Mang = Sukha (happiness) L (ल) - to bring, to give ,i.e. which bestows happiness, is Mangal (auspicious). Mangal - Mam=sin 'Gal'='Galayatiti', i.e. melts / dissolves = that is which melts/destroy sins, is called 'Mangal', i.e. auspicious. The word Mangal (auspicious) in worldly meaning - unmarried girl, yellow mustard, elephant, pitcher filled with water, the calf in the state of drinking milk, etc., are auspicious. Pertaining to next world - Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upaddhayaya and Sadhoo Parmeshthi (Divinity) are auspicious. 24. What is the grandeur of 'Namokar Mantra'? This incantation is regarded as the king of all incantations. Reciting it all earlier accumulated Karmas are destroyed due to which many bodily, mental sufferings / trouble are averted. Fear of terrible animals - lion, snake ,etc. does not occur, ghosts, peripatetic deities (Vyantara), etc. flee away. Very deadly poison is nullified by its effect. Many beings got superior bodyform and learnings only by hearing this incantation. There are many examples of it in Jain scriptures. It is, in fact, matchless 1. Seth Padamaruchi caused to hear 'Namokar Mantra' to an ox and it became 'Sugreev' (in the next birth). Specific Mention - First of all the ox took birth as king Vrashabdhwaja afterwards Sugreev and Seth Padamaruchi became Ramchandraji in the subsequent birth 2. Ramchandra Ji caused to hear 'Namokar Mantra' to a bird 'Jatayu' (vulture) and it became deity in the heaven. 3. Jeevandhar Kumar caused to hear 'Namokar Mantra' to a dog and he became 'Yakshendra' (a demigod). 4. The thief Anjan acquired scriptural knowledge (supernatural power) of moving in the sky because of his having strong faith in 'Namokar Mantra'. 25. Tell some other example of the grandeur of the Namokar Mantra ? Acharya Deshbhushanji Maharaj was passing through a city. There was the only son of a Muslim Brother. A snake had bitten his that son who had been treated by all the knower/ well-versed in spell and expert in magical and mystical formula of the city but to no effect. By chance Acharya Deshbhushanji was passing on that way. Seeing him that Muslim brother caught hold of his feet and began to say "You are a celebrated mendicant. You are surely endowed with some supernatural power, , kindly nullify the effect of the poison, this is my only son, I shall be indebted to you for ever." Acharya Deshbhushanji Maharaj was an excellent religious practiser. He was having supernatueal powers by magical means. He immediately took some water from his Kamandalu consecrated it by recitation of a 'Mantra' and sprinkled on him, then that child became quite o.k. 26. Whether there are other miraculous powers in incantations ? Mantras contain of many miraculous powers by which the most powerful deities could also be subdued. Heavy rains, typhoon, etc. are also checked. This incantation is well-known in the world for nullifying the snake-poison. 27. Why Acharya, Upadhyaya have not been taken in 'Chattari dandak' (A Hindi metre consisting of long lines) ? Acharya and Upadhyaya are specific positions which have been ascertained with regard to giving expiation, imparting education, etc,. for managing the congregation smoothly. Hence these have been conceived in Sadhu Parmeshthi. 28. How many 'Sagar of sins' acquired in numberless years/births) are destroyed by pronunciation of 'Namokar Mantra'? Invoking the name even of one alphabet of 'Namokar Mantra' with devotion, sins of seven Sagar are destroyed, reciting five alphabets, sins of fifty Sagar are destroyed and pronouncing the full incantation, sins of five hundreds Sagar are destroyed. (Tattvanushasan uddharat 63)