Bhaktamal: Parshvanath Maharaj
Real Name – Bhagwan Parshvanatha
Other names - Bhagwan Parshvanath Maharaj ji
Disciples - Kesisramanacharya
Aradhya - Digambara Sect
Birth – 872 BCE
Place of Birth - Kashi (present-day Varanasi), India
Marital Status – Married
Father - King Ashvasena
Mother - Queen Vama Devi
Famous - 23rd Tirthankara of Jainism
Symbol (Lanchhana): Serpent (Nāga)
Renunciation: Gave up royal life to pursue spiritual liberation
Kevala Jnana: Attained omniscient knowledge after deep meditation and austerities
Nirvana (Liberation): Shikharji (Sammed Shikhar), Jharkhand
Parshvanath Maharaj, also known as Lord Parshvanatha, is the 23rd Tirthankara of Jainism. He is one of the most revered spiritual teachers in Jain tradition, known for his message of non-violence, truth, and renunciation.
Core Teachings of Parshvanath Swami Maharaj
Lord Parshvanath propagated four great vows (Chatur-Yama Dharma):
❀ Ahimsa – Non-violence
❀ Satya – Truthfulness
❀ Asteya – Non-stealing
❀ Aparigraha – Non-attachment
Later, Bhagwan Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, added Brahmacharya (celibacy) to establish the five great vows of Jainism.
Spiritual Significance
Lord Parshvanath is traditionally depicted with a seven-hooded serpent canopy, symbolizing the protection given by Dharanendra Nāga during his intense meditation. His teachings laid a strong foundation for the ethical and spiritual framework of Jain philosophy.
Legacy of Parshvanath Swami Maharaj
Even today, Lord Parshvanath inspires millions of followers to lead a life of self-discipline, compassion, and inner purity. Numerous ancient Jain temples across India are dedicated to him.