Introduction
More than 2,500 years ago, in a small town called Varanasi (in present-day Uttar Pradesh, India), a prince was born who would later transform into a spiritual leader and guide humanity towards peace and liberation. That prince was Parshva, who came to be known as Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Tirthankar of Jain Dharma.
His life is not just a historical story—it is a timeless inspiration about simplicity, compassion, and spiritual awakening. In this post, we will explore his journey from being a royal prince to becoming a revered Tirthankar.
Birth and Early Life
Lord Parshvanath was born in 877 BCE into a noble Kshatriya family. His father, King Ashvasena, and his mother, Queen Vama Devi, ruled Varanasi with wisdom and kindness. The people of the kingdom believed that the child was special because Queen Vama Devi had seen auspicious dreams before his birth—dreams that signified greatness, compassion, and spiritual power.
As a child, Parshva was full of courage and intelligence. He was deeply loved by everyone. Unlike other princes, he showed an unusual sense of kindness, even towards small creatures. Legends say he once fearlessly faced dangerous animals but never harmed them—this reflected his deep compassion.
Prince Parshva’s Character
Growing up, Prince Parshva was educated in arts, warfare, politics, and philosophy, like any royal child. Yet, he always stood out because of his kind heart and quiet nature.
- He believed in truthfulness from an early age.
- He disliked unnecessary luxury.
- He felt deeply for the suffering of others—whether humans, animals, or even tiny beings.
These qualities showed that his soul was destined for a higher purpose.
Turning Point – Renunciation of the World
At the age of 30, after seeing the suffering of worldly life, Parshva made a life-changing decision. He realized that pleasures, wealth, and power were temporary. True peace could not be found in palaces or riches—it had to be found within.
So, with his family’s permission, he renounced his royal life. He gave up his princely clothes, ornaments, and comfort, and chose the path of a wandering monk. From that day, he became a seeker of truth and a symbol of renunciation.
Years of Tapasya (Spiritual Practice)
For many years, Parshvanath lived a life of extreme discipline, meditation, and penance.
- He wandered from village to village, often fasting for long periods.
- He faced harsh weather, hunger, and even insults from people.
- He practiced Ahimsa (non-violence) so deeply that he walked barefoot carefully, ensuring he did not harm even the smallest insect.
This phase of his life was a test of patience and strength. His calmness in the face of suffering inspired many around him.
Attainment of Keval Gyan (Omniscience)
Finally, at the age of 40, after years of meditation, Parshvanath attained Keval Gyan—the state of complete knowledge and infinite awareness. From that moment, he became Lord Parshvanath, the enlightened one.
With this divine wisdom, he could see the truth of the universe—the cycle of birth and death (samsara), the law of karma, and the path to liberation (moksha).
Teachings of Lord Parshvanath
After attaining Keval Gyan, Lord Parshvanath spent his life teaching people how to live a pure and peaceful life. His teachings were simple yet profound:
- Ahimsa (Non-violence): Do not harm any living being, whether big or small.
- Satya (Truth): Always speak truthfully and with kindness.
- Asteya (Non-stealing): Do not take what is not yours.
- Brahmacharya (Celibacy): Control desires and live a disciplined life.
These principles became the foundation of his teachings, which later expanded in Jain Dharma.
Parshvanath as a Tirthankar
As the 23rd Tirthankar, Lord Parshvanath guided countless souls on the path of liberation. He established a community of monks, nuns, and lay followers. His compassion touched kings, common people, and even enemies.
Unlike many leaders, Parshvanath did not ask for temples, wealth, or worship. He only asked people to practice self-control, kindness, and mindfulness.
Final Nirvana
At the age of 100, Lord Parshvanath attained Nirvana (liberation) at Sammet Shikharji in present-day Jharkhand. His soul, free from all bondage, merged with the eternal state of bliss.
Relevance Today
Though Parshvanath lived more than 2,800 years ago, his teachings remain timeless. In today’s world of violence, greed, and stress, his message of non-violence, simplicity, and inner peace is more relevant than ever.
- His principle of Ahimsa inspires vegetarianism and veganism.
- His idea of Aparigraha encourages minimalism in a materialistic world.
- His message of Satya teaches honesty in personal and professional life.
Conclusion
Lord Parshvanath’s journey from a prince to a Tirthankar is not just a story of religion—it is a story of human strength, compassion, and self-realization. He showed us that true happiness does not come from wealth or power but from controlling our desires, being kind, and seeking inner truth.
As he once said:
“Live and allow others to live. Love all. Have compassion for all beings.”
May his teachings inspire us to live lives of peace, simplicity, and love. 🙏
