In the glorious lineage of the 24 Tirthankaras in Jainism, Bhagwan Sambhavanatha holds a divine place as the 3rd Tirthankara. Born into royalty but destined for spiritual supremacy, Sambhavanatha Bhagwan chose the path of self-realization over worldly pleasures, inspiring countless souls to walk the path of truth and non-violence.

He symbolizes calm strength, wisdom, and compassion, and his teachings remain ever-relevant in today's fast-paced, material-driven world. From his divine birth to the attainment of Keval Gyan (omniscience), his journey reminds us that liberation is possible through right conduct, right faith, and right knowledge.

Past Birth of Sambhavanatha Bhagwan of Shree Sambhavanatha

Before taking birth as the 3rd Tirthankara, Bhagwan Sambhavanatha was a highly virtuous and noble king in his previous life, known for his unwavering commitment to dharma (righteousness), compassionate rule, and generous heart.

This king was not just a ruler by title but a spiritual aspirant by soul. Despite enjoying royal luxuries, he remained detached from material pleasures and lived a life rooted in truth, non-violence, self-discipline, and service to others. He regularly engaged in acts of charity (daan), spiritual discussions, and guided his people with moral values.

Due to his accumulated punya (good karmas) and his inner inclination towards moksha (liberation), he developed a strong desire to attain ultimate truth and freedom from the cycle of birth and death. His soul, enriched with purity and elevated consciousness, was destined to become a Tirthankara in the next cycle of time.

As a result of these divine virtues and spiritual efforts, his soul was reborn in the celestial realm (Devaloka) after his death. After completing his heavenly lifespan, he took his final birth as Sambhavanatha Bhagwan, destined to illuminate the world with his wisdom and lead countless beings toward the path of liberation.

Current Birth of Shree Sambhavanatha

Sambhavanatha Bhagwan was born in the Ikshvaku dynasty, to King Jitārī and Queen Susenā in Shraavasti (Shravasti). His birth occurred on the 14th day of the bright half of the Chaitra month. His birth brought immense peace, prosperity, and divine signs in the region, signifying the arrival of a soul destined for spiritual greatness.

Childhood of Sambhavanatha Bhagwan

Born to King Jitari and Queen Susenā in the sacred city of Shraavasti, his very presence radiated peace and positivity.

Unlike other royal children, Sambhavanatha was never deeply attached to toys, luxuries, or the pleasures of palace life. Even in his early years, he showed deep interest in spiritual conversations, meditation, and philosophical thoughts.

As he grew older, his wisdom deepened. He would often ask profound questions about life, death, karma, and the soul — questions that even sages found astonishing coming from such a young mind. His presence was so impactful that many people started seeing him as a guide and source of inspiration.

Sambhavanatha’s childhood was a reflection of his soul's purity and past spiritual achievements, laying the foundation for his future role as a Tirthankara, who would guide countless beings on the path of liberation.

Diksha (Renunciation)

Despite being surrounded by luxury and royal responsibilities, Sambhavanatha chose the path of renunciation at a very young age. He took diksha, leaving behind all worldly ties, and embarked on a path of tapasya (deep meditation and penance) to attain liberation and uplift humanity through his teachings.

Keval Gyan (Omniscience)

After years of intense meditation and austerity, Sambhavanatha attained Keval Gyan (absolute knowledge) under a sal tree. With this supreme knowledge, he understood the complete truth of the universe — birth, death, karma, liberation, and the eternal soul. His sermons guided thousands on the path of moksha (liberation).

Unknown & Hidden Facts about Sambhavanatha Bhagwan

• He is symbolized by the Horse (Ashwa) in Jain iconography.

• His height was said to be 400 dhanusha (~1200 feet), as per Jain scriptures.

• He lived for 6 million purva years and preached non-violence, truth, and detachment.

• He had a twin soul (yugalika) system present in his time.

• His Yaksha and Yakshini are Trimukha and Duritari respectively.

• He had four types of knowledge before attaining Keval Gyan – Mati Gyan, Shrut Gyan, Avadhi Gyan, and Manahparyaya Gyan.

• His Samavasarana (divine preaching hall) attracted celestial beings, humans, and animals alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sambhavanatha Bhagwan

1. Who was Sambhavanatha Bhagwan?

Sambhavanatha Bhagwan is the 3rd Tirthankara in the current Avasarpini (descending time cycle) of Jainism. He was a divine soul who attained Keval Gyan (omniscience) and guided thousands of souls on the path of liberation.

2. What is the symbol of Sambhavanatha Bhagwan?

The Horse (Ashva) is the symbolic emblem of Sambhavanatha Bhagwan, representing energy, strength, and spiritual journey.

3. When did Sambhavanatha Bhagwan take Diksha (renunciation)?

He renounced worldly life at a young age and accepted diksha, beginning his journey towards spiritual awakening through penance and meditation.

4. What was the lifespan of Sambhavanatha Bhagwan according to Jain texts?

As per Jain scriptures, his lifespan was 6 million Purva years, and he stood around 400 dhanush (~1200 feet) tall, as per the divine time scale mentioned in Jain cosmology.

5. Why is he called ‘Sambhavanatha’?

The name ‘Sambhavanatha’ signifies a soul full of auspiciousness (Shubha Sambhavana). His birth and life were considered highly divine and beneficial for the upliftment of all beings.