Gunashilaka (sometimes spelled Gunashilak or Gunashilak Chaitya) is a term found in ancient Jain texts and inscriptions, referring to a specific type of stupa or chaitya (shrine or temple) that is associated with the worship of Tirthankaras or revered monks.

Connection with Mahavir Swami:

• Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, is often associated with various chaityas (temples or shrines) that were erected in his honor after his nirvana (liberation).
• In Jain tradition, after the nirvana of a Tirthankara, devotees construct chaityas at the site of their liberation or at places sanctified by their presence. These chaityas often contain stupas or relics and are places of pilgrimage and veneration.
• The term "Gunashilaka" refers to a pillar or memorial stone, often inscribed, that is set up at such sacred sites, including those related to Mahavir Swami.
• The Gunashilaka Chaitya thus represents the tradition of commemorating the virtues (‘guna’) and the spiritual achievements of Mahavir Swami and other Tirthankaras through dedicated shrines and memorials.

Scriptural Reference:

• Jain texts such as the Kalpa Sūtra and Uttarādhyayana Sūtra mention the building of stupas and chaityas for Tirthankaras.
• Archaeological evidence from ancient Jain sites like Pawa Puri (where Mahavir attained nirvana) includes chaityas and pillars, possibly corresponding to the concept of Gunashilaka.

Cultural Practice:

• Even today, Jains visit chaityas and commemorate Mahavir Swami through rituals, meditation, and study at these sacred places.
• The tradition highlights the importance of remembering and venerating the spiritual qualities (gunas) of Mahavir Swami, inspiring devotees to cultivate similar virtues.

In summary, the Gunashilak Chaitya symbolizes the reverence for Mahavir Swami’s virtues and spiritual accomplishments, providing a focal point for devotion and remembrance in Jain culture.