Answer

Bhomiyaji Maharaj is a deeply respected protective deity in Jain tradition, especially connected with the sacred tirth of Shri Sammed Shikharji.

He is traditionally remembered as a guardian deity who protects the holy land, the pilgrims, and the sanctity of the tirth.

Story

According to Jain tradition, Bhomiyaji Maharaj was once associated with the land of Sammed Shikharji. Due to his deep connection with that sacred place and his devotion toward Jain Dharma, he became honored as the kshetrapal or protective deity of the tirth.

Sammed Shikharji is one of the most sacred Jain pilgrimage places because 20 Tirthankars attained moksha from this holy mountain. Because of the immense spiritual importance of this place, Bhomiyaji Maharaj is revered as a guardian who helps devotees undertake the pilgrimage with faith, discipline, and protection.

Many Jain pilgrims first offer respectful prayers to Bhomiyaji Maharaj before beginning the yatra of Shikharji. Devotees believe that with his blessings, the pilgrimage becomes peaceful and spiritually fruitful.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, such guardian deities are respected, but they are not worshipped as liberated souls. The highest worship is always directed toward:

• Arihants
• Siddhas
• Acharyas
• Upadhyayas
• Sadhus

Bhomiyaji Maharaj is honored as a protective deity, while the main spiritual goal remains liberation of the soul through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.

Takeaway

Bhomiyaji Maharaj is remembered with devotion as the guardian of Shri Sammed Shikharji, helping devotees approach the sacred pilgrimage with purity, humility, and faith.