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 137

Holy Abu
following reliefs are shown :-In the uppermost section, a shrāvikā stands with hands folded in adoration, a shrāvaka stands beside her, below are seen two shrāvakas carrying garlands of flowers, and one standing with folded hands. The third section shows a teacher (monk) sitting on a raised seat, in front of a Sthāpanā placed on a small platform. On the other side of the Sthápanā are two disciples (monks). of this teacher, who keep their heads bent, and bow down to the teacher while the teacher is shown throwing scented powder on their heads. 1 In the lower sections are, three nuns and three shrāvakas standing, in two groups, one below the other (fig. 10).
(3) In the first section ( khanda) of the Navachokī, in a dome in the centre, (near the main doorway), the peripheri shows, a Tīrthankara standing in meditation in the Kāyotsarga attitude, with shrāvakas standing on his two sides and carrying pitcher, garland and other accessories for worship. Also there is an achārya on a seat, with a disciple lying down in front in the act of obeissance (praņāma) and two shrāvakas standing with folded hands. There are besides carvings of a few musical instruments.
(4) The ceiling of the Navachokī, is divided into several sections or bays with the beams supporting it. In one of the bays to the right of the visitor, in one corner, is a figure of the goddess Lakshmī, being lustrated by elephants. In another corner are shown two elephants fighting.
(5) In the central big dome of the Rangamaņdapa, superimposed athwart the lower circular rings of the dome,
1 This, in Jainism, is technically known as Vāsa-kşhepa,throwing of scented powder, on the head of a pupil, who may be a monk or a layman, while initiating him into the practice of any vow or rite or penance. This is a formal way of giving permission for the practice of such vow, and initiation into it with recitation of certain prescribed verses-Translator.