Answer

In Jain tradition, “20 Sthanak” usually refers to a 20-part devotional austerity known as Vishsthanak Tap or Vishsthanak Aradhana. In the vidhi literature, each “sthanak” is a spiritual focus that is worshipped with specific recitation, bowing, and kaysotsarga practice. The text presents 20 such focuses, including padas like Arihant, Siddha, Pravachan, Acharya, Sthavir, Upadhyay, Sadhu, and other knowledge- and discipline-related padas. ( jainqq.org)

Explanation

Here, “sthanak” appears to mean a spiritual station or point of devotion. The tap is performed with formal Jain practices such as Navkarvali, Khamasaman, Logassa, and Kaussagga. Different Jain texts and traditions may explain the 20 sthanaks with slightly different wording, but the core idea is the same: concentrated aradhana of twenty noble spiritual qualities or stations. ( jainqq.org)

Spiritual Understanding

The inner purpose of this tap is self-purification, humility, discipline, and deep reverence for the Jain path. Jain tradition also teaches that very high penance and meditation are connected with the earning of Tirthankar-nam-karma, and Vishsthanak Tap is discussed in that devotional context. ( jainworld.jainworld.com)

Takeaway

So, in simple words: 20 Sthanak is a Jain tapasya of honoring 20 sacred spiritual focuses to purify the soul and strengthen devotion. ( jainqq.org)