Holy Abu

SR No.: 023259
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Jayantvijay
Publisher: Yashovijay Jain Granthmala
Publication Year: 1954
Total Pages: 380
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 14 MB

Page 112

Vimala-Vasahi]
In this Shrine he installed as the chief idol in the main sanctum, a beautiful image of Ādinātha, cast in brass with gold used as an alloy, 18 bhāras in weight, about 51 inches high, and shining with a beautiful parikara (made up of attendant fly-whisk bearers, triple-umbrella, heavenly musicians, halo, a lion-throne etc.). The consecration ceremony performed in V. S. 1088 (A. D. 1021 ), under the auspicies of achāryas (pontiffs ) of the four great schools (of the Shvetāmbara Jaina sect), well-known as Nāgendra, Chandra, Nirvști and Vidyadhara gachchhas. The image became famous as the “ Praudhadādā” (The Great Grandfather). 1
But during later repairs of the temple, a beautiful stone sculpture of the Jina was installed which is worshipped even this day. satisfied with those simpler offerings. He further warned Vimala that without such an offering, he would not let the construction work to proceed unobstructed or allow him to erect a temple on the site. The minister boldly replied that since he was a Jaina, he would never give an offering of wine or flesh and that if the vegetarian dish was not acceptable, the Vyantara deity should be ready for a fight with him. So saying Vimala drew sword and with a terrific battle-cry rushed towards Vālināha with a view to attack him. The Vyantara, overpowered by the unprecedented valour and merits of the great minister, was completely subdued, and accepting the offerings, went away pacified. Henceforward the work of construction proceeded without any obstruction.
1 Vide, Upadeshatarangini, section on Ārchopadesha, p. 224. (The image of Rşhabhanātha at Shatruñjaya is called "Dādāji.” The title is usually given to ķşhabhanātha and in rare cases to Pārshva. It seems that Rşhabha, the first Jina, was regarded as the “Grand Old Man," the forefather of all, the Chief Ancestor, by the masses.- Translator).