Nav Smarana

Author(s): Vinod Kapashi
Publisher: Vinod Kapashi

Page 90

8. The triple canopies (Tri- Chhatra).
The Pratikramana Sootra' mentions the following thirty-four atishayas
1. The Tirthankara's hair and nails do not grow. And His body is always spotlessly clean.
2. The fragrance of His breathing is like a lotus flower.
3. His flesh and blood are as white as cow's milk.
4. His intake of food cannot be seen by ordinary mortals.
5. The gods create a special assembly (samovasarana).
6. His speech carries deep meaning.
7. This language can be understood by all creatures (including animals) in their own languages, and they all feel blessed.
8. People remain free of severe illness.
9. The leaders do not argue or speak against the Tirthankara.
10. Insects and pests do not destroy crops.
11. Obstacles perish all around the samovasarana.
12. Heavy torrential rain is absent.
13. There is no total lack of rain either.
14. There is no famine.
15. The army does not harass the people, foreign armies do not harass the people.
16. A dharma-chakra is seen nearby.
17. White Chämara (whisks) are seen in the sky.
18. The Tirthankara is seated on a 'throne'.
19. A three-tier canopy sits on the head of the Tirthankara (Tri-Chhatra).
20. A flag on a tall pole remains in front of the Tirthankara whenever He is walking 21. Devas create golden lotuses where the Tirthankara is about to put his steps. The Tirthankara then walks on these lotuses.
22. Devas create a three-tier assembly-hall. The walls are made up of gems, gold and silver, respectively.
23. The Tirthankara seats facing the East side of the samovasarana. However due to the miraculous effect created by the Devas, the Tirthankara's face can be seen from all four directions. (He has four faces)
24. A Tirthankara is seen sitting under a giant Ashoka tree
25. Thorns on the ground bend down in respect.
26. Trees on both sides of His path bend down as if they are paying their respects.
27. The Devas blow their Dundubhis, musical wind instruments.
28. Mild cool wind gently blows.
29. Birds hover around the Tirthankara as if they too are bowing in respect.
30. A fragrant, gentle shower clears the ground of any bad karma.
31. The Devas make flowers rain from the sky.
32. At least ten million Devas are always ready to serve the Tirthankara.
33. The Tirthankara's divine speech can be heard from a distance of two miles. 34. All seasons become favourable.
What are the pratihäryas?
Panch Pratikraman Sartha, Yashovijayji Pathshala, Mehsana, 1988. Page 347
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