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Asthapad

Asthapad, meaning “Eight Steps,” is a profoundly sacred site nestled near Mount Kailash in Tibet, deeply revered in Jainism as the place where the first Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhdev, attained moksha (liberation). Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas and steeped in ancient spirituality, Asthapad offers pilgrims a rare opportunity to connect with divinity in one of the holiest and most remote corners of the world. Though access is limited, the spiritual significance and mythical aura of Asthapad make it a powerful destination for seekers from Jain, Hindu, and Buddhist traditions alike.

Table of content

Key Takeaways

Spiritual Significance in Jainism: Asthapad is believed to be the site where Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara, attained liberation, making it a highly revered pilgrimage site for Jains.
Meaning of the Name: “Asthapad” translates to “Eight Steps,” symbolizing the spiritual path toward enlightenment.
Proximity to Mount Kailash: Located near the base of Mount Kailash, it forms part of the broader sacred geography of the region, shared by Jain, Hindu, and Buddhist devotees.
Restricted Access: Asthapad is currently closed to pilgrims due to its remote location and strict Chinese regulations, but it remains an aspirational site for spiritual journeys.
Cultural and Religious Harmony: While central to Jain beliefs, the site also holds spiritual resonance for Hindus and Buddhists, reflecting the interconnected nature of sacred Himalayan traditions.
Symbol of Liberation: Asthapad is more than a physical destination—it represents the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation and the journey inward.

Summary

Asthapad, also spelled Acmapad, is a sacred mountain revered in Jainism, particularly noted for its significance in the spiritual and cultural landscape of the religion.

Regarded as a site of profound spiritual importance, Asthapad is linked to the path of enlightenment and liberation of the soul, symbolizing the journey towards nirvana. The mountain is often associated with key events in Jain cosmology and has been a focal point for pilgrimage and devotion, drawing adherents from various sects, including the Digambara and Svetambara traditions, who recognize its role in spiritual development and ethical living.[1 ][2 ][3 ].

Historically, Asthapad has been referenced in ancient Jain and Hindu texts, such as the ‘Kalpasutra’ and ‘Nishithchumi’, which document its revered status and the events surrounding it. The significance of Asthapad extends beyond Jainism, as it has also captured the interest of scholars exploring its relevance in Tibetan literature and its representation in broader cultural contexts. Research initiatives have aimed to uncover its historical implications, connecting it to the Guge Kingdom and early hu- man civilization, which further highlights the mountain’s importance in understanding regional heritage and religious practices.[4][5][6].

The architectural representation of Asthapad has evolved, culminating in the con- struction of the Ashtapad Teertha, a modern pilgrimage site developed over twenty years. This structure aims to embody Jain ideals of co-existence and peace, pro- moting spiritual reflection among devotees and facilitating community engagement through rituals and celebrations. Notable events, such as the consecration of the tem- ple in 2009, have underscored its role as a vital center for Jain spirituality and a space for collective worship, reinforcing the communal bonds among followers.[7 ][8 ][9 ].

In contemporary discussions, Asthapad serves as a symbol of Jainism’s relevance, reflecting its principles of non-violence, compassion, and truth in addressing modern societal issues. The ongoing exploration of its historical and spiritual significance contributes to the understanding of Jain practices and their adaptation in the present, ensuring the continuity of these traditions within an ever-changing cultural land- scape.[10 ][11 ][12 ].

Historical Context

Guge Kingdom

The Guge Kingdom, established around the 10th century, emerged as a significant power in western Tibet and played a crucial role in the historical and cultural land- scape of the region.[1 ] This kingdom not only influenced local governance but also facilitated the exchange of religious and philosophical ideas, thereby contributing to the region’s rich tapestry of cultural heritage.

Research and Discovery

The exploration of Ashtapad and its historical significance has been a formidable undertaking, involving extensive research into ancient texts and satellite imagery. The project to locate the lost Tirth, which is of great importance in Jainism, necessitated the study of Jain and Hindu scriptures as well as texts written in ancient Tibetan script.[4 ][2 ] This multi-disciplinary approach included arranging tours for scientists and scholars to the Himalayan regions to gather archaeological and climatic data.

Notably, the Ashtapad research initiative has yielded insights into early human civilization, particularly concerning Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, and aims to serve as a comprehensive guide for future studies in ancient history.[6]

Impact on Civilization

The period marked by the Shri Adinath era is considered pivotal in the development of early human civilization. The eventual discovery of Ashtapad is anticipated to unveil critical information about this formative period, potentially opening a new chapter in world history and enhancing our understanding of the religious and cultural dynamics of the time.[13 ][14 ] This emphasis on historical research not only highlights the importance of Ashtapad in Jain tradition but also underscores its role as a site of pilgrimage and reverence among various faiths.

Structure and Design

The Ashtapad is a significant architectural structure originally envisioned as a four-sided, or Sarvatomukhi (Omni-directional), monument. However, due to space constraints, the final design became a unidirectional unit that is only viewable from the front. The architectural blueprint was meticulously developed to fit the available space, resulting in a structure made predominantly from crystal stones, which stands at 13 feet 1 inch in height, 14 feet 7 inches in width, and 5 feet 1 inch in depth. The Ashtapad features eight steps at its base and is topped with five Shikhars adorned with a Kalash and a Dhwaja.[15][16][17][9].

The Ashtapad is designed to house 24 Gokhalas, which are compartments for idols carved from gemstones. Each Gokhala is intricately carved with the Asht Pratiharya design, enhancing the spiritual significance of the site.[18 ] The construction utilized approximately 30 tons of rough crystal stones, which were imported and subse- quently processed to achieve a final weight of 7.5 tons for the mountain structure itself. This mountain is supported by a robust one-ton steel frame, ensuring its stability and durability.[7 ].

Moreover, the structure showcases various colored gemstones sourced globally to craft the idols of different sizes. Each idol is carved following specific religious guidelines and measurements, ensuring adherence to tradition by utilizing single pieces of rough stone for the carvings.[19][4] The term “Ashtapad” translates to ‘Eight Steps’, symbolizing the journey towards enlightenment and nirvana, underscoring the religious and cultural significance of the structure within the context of pilgrimage and devotion.[14].

Religious and Spiritual Importance

The Ashtapad temple holds significant religious and spiritual importance within Jain- ism, reflecting the values and beliefs central to the faith. Unlike some other religions, pilgrimage in Jainism is not considered obligatory, allowing devotees the freedom to engage with their spirituality in ways that best suit their circumstances[7 ][14 ].

While many devotees may aspire to travel to sacred sites, the emphasis remains on adherence to core Jain principles such as Ahimsa (harmlessness), Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), and Anekanta (non-absolutism/multiple viewpoints), which are regarded as more critical than the physical act of pilgrimage[20 ][18 ].

The concept of pilgrimage, or y tr , encompasses not only the journey to sacred locations but also an internal journey, reflecting on one’s consciousness and spiritual state[20]. Jain practices include both external pilgrimages to temples and internal journeys through meditation, such as the Antar Y tr , which symbolizes an exploration of the self[20]. The Ashtapad temple, therefore, represents not just a physical desti- nation but also a metaphorical space for spiritual reflection and growth.

The temple was consecrated on the auspicious day of “Margashirsha Sudi Purnima” in 2009, celebrated with grandeur and attended by a multitude of Jain followers under the guidance of esteemed religious leaders[7 ][21 ]. Such events serve to enhance the communal aspect of spirituality, providing a space where followers can collectively honor their beliefs and rituals. The rituals performed at the temple, which include offerings and recitations of sacred texts, further solidify its status as a vital spiritual center for the Jain community[9 ][22 ].

Contemporary Relevance

Jainism continues to thrive as a dynamic philosophy, addressing contemporary soci- etal issues through its core tenets of non-violence, truth, and compassion. Influential figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. drew inspiration from Jain principles in their advocacy for non-violent resistance, illustrating the relevance of Jain teachings in promoting peace and social justice in modern contexts[10 ][11 ].

Jain Institutions and Community Engagement

Globally, Jain communities have established numerous temples and cultural institu- tions that act as vital centers for worship, education, and community activities. These institutions are instrumental in preserving Jain traditions while fostering a sense of unity among followers[12 ]. The Arihanta Institute, for instance, serves as a prominent example of how Jainism’s teachings are sustained and disseminated, aiming to guide future generations towards enlightenment and ethical living[10 ].

Festivals and Spiritual Practices

Jain festivals, notably Mahavir Jayanti and Paryushana, remain pivotal in the com- munity’s spiritual life. Paryushana, characterized by self-reflection, fasting, and inten- sified spiritual practices, reflects the relevance of Jainism in encouraging personal growth and moral integrity in contemporary society. Rituals such as Pratikramana, which involves repentance and forgiveness, resonate with the modern emphasis on mental well-being and personal accountability[12 ].

The Ashtapad Teertha Project

A significant contemporary development is the Ashtapad Teertha, constructed over twenty years at a cost of approximately Rs 25 crore. Located 110 kilometers from Delhi, this pilgrimage site is designed not only to enhance the spiritual landscape of Hastinapur but also to promote ideals of co-existence, peace, and unity in diver- sity, rooted in Jain philosophy[16][8]. Acharya Nityanand Suriji emphasized that the Teertha would help propagate Bharatiya culture and ethos, demonstrating Jainism’s enduring relevance in fostering cultural and spiritual unity in today’s diverse society- [8].

Notable Examples

Jainism and Acmapad

Acmapadh7(oMlds>*s&ig)nificant cultural and religious importance within Jainism, referring to the sacred mountain Kail [a, which is mentioned in historical inscriptions such as those from the Gupta Empire (r. 3rd-century CE). Jainism, an Indian religion focused on the principles of non-violence (ahimsa) and self-discipline, recognizes Acmapad as a site of spiritual significance linked to the practice of achieving ultimate liberation of the soul[2][3]. The two main sects of Jainism, Digambara and Svetambara, both emphasize Acmapad in their teachings and traditions, highlighting its role in fostering spiritual development through peaceful living[3][23].

Historical References

Numerous ancient texts provide insights into the significance of Acmapad. References to Acmapad can be found in various Jain scriptures, including the ‘Kalpasutra’ and ‘Nishithchumi’, as well as in Hindu texts that recount its glorious history[5 ]. The location is often depicted as a revered site where important events related to Jain Tirthankaras transpired, thus making it a focal point for pilgrimage and devotion[5 ].

Notably, Dr. Thomas Parmar’s research into Tibetan literature has further expanded the understanding of Acmapad’s significance across cultural boundaries, revealing the shared reverence for this site in various religious contexts[5 ].

Architectural Significance

In the context of Vastushastra (traditional Indian architecture), Acmapad also refers to a chequered board used in games and rituals, illustrating the intersection of spiritual and physical practices in Indian culture[24][25]. Furthermore, the term Acmapad is interpreted in some texts as a “spider,” showcasing the flexibility and depth of meaning attributed to this term across different scholarly interpretations[26]. This duality in interpretation reflects the broader complexities within Jainism and its related traditions, where various symbols and practices intertwine to create a rich tapestry of cultural heritage.

Modern Recognition

Today, Acmapad remains a vital pilgrimage site for Jains, symbolizing a connection to their religious heritage and serving as a testament to the historical continuity

of Jain practices over centuries. The importance of this site is also recognized in contemporary discussions surrounding the preservation of cultural and religious sites within India[23 ].