Visit to Shatrunjaya: A Journey into the Heart of Jain Pilgrimage

Rediscovering an Ancient Tradition

Hidden amidst the rugged hills of Gujarat, India, lies Shatrunjaya, a sacred mountain that serves as a pilgrimage destination for Jains, followers of an ancient Indian religion. For centuries, devout Jains have undertaken the arduous ascent to the summit of this mountain to visit its numerous temples, each dedicated to a different deity or saint.

A Visit to Shatrunjaya

by Kenneth McIntosh

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8652 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	175 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

In 1958, Kenneth McIntosh, a British scholar and photographer, embarked on a pilgrimage to Shatrunjaya, documenting his experiences in a captivating book entitled "Visit to Shatrunjaya." This meticulously researched and beautifully illustrated work provides a rare glimpse into the rituals, beliefs, and history of Jainism.

A Sacred Landscape

Shatrunjaya rises majestically from the surrounding plains, its slopes dotted with hundreds of temples and shrines. The complex is divided into two main sections: the lower city, known as Palitana, and the upper city, where the most sacred temples are located.

Palitana is a vibrant town bustling with activity, its narrow streets lined with shops and guesthouses. As visitors enter the upper city, they are greeted by a serene and awe-inspiring sight. The temples, built in a distinctive Indo-Saracenic architectural style, are adorned with intricate carvings and colorful paintings.

The most important temple in the complex is the Adinath Temple, dedicated to the first Tirthankara (enlightened being) of Jainism, Rishabhanatha. This magnificent structure houses a colossal black marble statue of the deity, surrounded by smaller shrines dedicated to other Tirthankaras.

A Journey of Faith

For Jains, the pilgrimage to Shatrunjaya is a deeply spiritual experience. Pilgrims believe that by ascending the mountain, paying homage to the temples, and practicing austerities, they can accumulate spiritual merit and progress on the path to liberation.

The climb to the summit is challenging, with pilgrims having to negotiate steep steps and slippery paths. However, the arduous journey is seen as a metaphor for the spiritual journey, which also requires self-discipline and perseverance.

Preserving a Cultural Heritage

Kenneth McIntosh's "Visit to Shatrunjaya" played a pivotal role in raising awareness of the significance of the site and its potential threat from neglect and urbanization. In 2003, Shatrunjaya was granted UNESCO World Heritage status, recognizing its outstanding universal value as a living example of Jain pilgrimage architecture.

Today, Shatrunjaya remains a thriving pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of devotees annually. The book "Visit to Shatrunjaya" continues to serve as a valuable resource for scholars, pilgrims, and anyone interested in understanding the rich history and traditions of Jainism.

Kenneth McIntosh's "Visit to Shatrunjaya" is a captivating account of a journey into the heart of Jain pilgrimage. Through vivid descriptions, stunning photographs, and insightful analysis, the book offers a profound and unforgettable experience for readers. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations.

A Visit to Shatrunjaya

by Kenneth McIntosh

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8652 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	175 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE