About Us
Home/About us
Divine Life Story
The extraordinary journey of the 23rd tirthankara from royal prince to enlightened master
Parshvanath, born around the 9th century BCE in Varanasi (Kashi, Uttar Pradesh), into a royal family as the son of King Ashvasena and Queen Vama Devi, chose at age 30 to renounce his princely comforts in pursuit of higher spiritual truth. Turning away from worldly attachments, he embraced a life of discipline, meditation, and compassion. Through his teachings, he emphasized the four great vows—nonviolence (ahimsa), truthfulness, non-stealing, and non-possessiveness—establishing the earliest structured Jain path to liberation. After years of deep ascetic practice, he attained Kevala Jñāna, the state of omniscience, and became revered as the 23rd Tirthankara of Jainism. For the remainder of his life, he guided seekers on the path of spiritual purity and moral clarity. His journey culminated in final liberation (moksha) at Sammed Shikharji, Jharkhand, an event that continues to inspire countless Jains and is honored with devotion. Parshvanath’s life stands as a testament to renunciation, wisdom, and the timeless quest for freedom from the cycle of birth and death.
Sacred Symbolism
Sacred Symbolism connected to Parshvanath and Jain tradition
Serpent Symbol (Lanchhana)
Parshvanath’s emblem in Jain iconography is a serpent (snake), symbolizing protection, strength, and spiritual awakening.
Swastika
Represents the four states of existence: heavenly beings, humans, animals/plants, and hellish beings.
Three Dots (Triratna)
Signify the Three Jewels of Jainism: Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct.
Crescent with Dot (Siddhashila)
Symbol of liberation, denoting the perfected state of the soul beyond rebirth.
Ahimsa Hand (Open Palm with Wheel)
Stands for non-violence, compassion, and the vow to avoid harm to any living being.
Ashta Mangal
Includes Swastika, Srivatsa, Nandavarta, Vardhamanaka, Bhadrasana, Kalasha, Minayugala, and Darpana.
Dhataki Tree
The sacred tree under which Parshvanath attained Kevala Jñāna (omniscience).
Sammed Shikharji
The holy mountain in Jharkhand where Parshvanath attained moksha, now one of the most revered Jain pilgrimage sites.
Historical References
Ancient scriptures and archaeological evidence that validate the historical existence of Bhagwan Maharvir ji
📜 Ancient Scriptures
Ācāranga Sūtra
Mentions early ascetic practices and teachings connected to Parshvanath’s tradition.
Kalpa Sūtra
Records the lives of Tirthankaras, including Parshvanath’s birth, renunciation, and liberation.
Uttaradhyayana Sūtra
Contains dialogues and spiritual teachings attributed to Parshvanath and his disciples.
Avashyaka Niryukti
Includes references to rituals and vows (mahavratas) originally taught by Parshvanath.
Buddhist Texts (Anguttara Nikaya)
Some early Buddhist scriptures indirectly mention followers of Parshvanath’s four vows before Mahavira’s time.
🏛 Archaeological Evidence
Mathura Inscriptions (1st–2nd CE)
Contain images and references to Parshvanath as an established Tirthankara.
Kankali Tila, Mathura
Excavations revealed Jain idols, including those of Parshvanath with serpent canopy.
Ancient Caves & Inscriptions
Parshvanath images and symbols found in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh.
Sammed Shikharji
Sacred mountain where Parshvanath attained moksha, historically revered with inscriptions and pilgrim records.
Ellora & Gwalior Jain Caves
Contain depictions of Parshvanath under serpent hood, affirming long-standing devotion.
Legends & Spiritual Significance
Sacred stories and profound spiritual meanings that inspire devotees across generations
The 23 Teacher of Humanity
A famous legend tells how, during Parshvanath’s meditation, the serpent king Dharanendra shielded him from a deadly storm caused by an adversary, symbolizing divine protection for those who follow truth and compassion.
Profound Spiritual Meanings
Parshvanath emphasized the Four Great Vows—ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), asteya (non-stealing), and aparigraha (non-possession)—laying the foundation for Jain philosophy later expanded by Mahavira.
The Serpent Canopy
The iconic image of Parshvanath under a serpent hood represents victory over fear and ignorance, reminding devotees of spiritual strength, compassion, and protection.
Path to Liberation
Parshvanath’s life illustrates the journey from princely luxury to enlightened teacher. His renunciation, meditation, and attainment of Kevala Jñāna inspire seekers to pursue liberation through self-discipline and compassion.
Eternal Relevance
Parshvanath’s message continues to hold deep significance in the modern world. His Four Great Vows—Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness)—offer timeless guidance for living with compassion, honesty, and simplicity. In an era challenged by violence, dishonesty, and material excess, his teachings remind humanity to walk the path of peace, ethical conduct, and mindful living. His example of renunciation and meditation encourages self-discipline and inner clarity, inspiring seekers to rise above worldly attachments and move toward spiritual freedom.
Support Our Mission
Help us spread the divine teachings of Parshvanath Swami and maintain sacred temples for future generations
