Shree Abhinandan Bhagwan – The Fourth Jain Tirthankara

Shree Abhinandan Bhagwan is the 4th Tirthankara of the present cosmic cycle in Jainism. Revered for his compassion, wisdom, and spiritual discipline, he played a crucial role in guiding countless souls on the path of dharma (righteousness) and liberation.

Birth and Childhood: A Divine Beginning

He was born in the sacred city of Ayodhya to King Samvara and Queen Siddhartha of the noble Ikshvaku Dynasty. His birth took place on Magh Shukla Dwitiya, a day considered highly auspicious in Jain tradition.

His name, “Abhinandan”, means "one who is celebrated and greeted with joy." At the time of his birth, celestial celebrations were witnessed, and his mother had divine dreams foretelling his greatness. He had a golden-hued complexion and his symbolic emblem was the Monkey (Vanar), representing vigilance and intelligence.

Path to Renunciation

Despite being raised in royal luxury, Abhinandan Bhagwan exhibited a deep inclination toward spirituality. From a young age, he displayed detachment from worldly pleasures and a yearning for truth.

At the age of 30,000 years, he renounced the throne and embraced ascetic life. On Magh Shukla Dwadashi, he took Diksha (initiation) along with 1,000 other ascetics. The ceremony was a divine spectacle attended by celestial beings and devotees.

Spiritual Enlightenment

After 18 years of deep penance and meditation under a Priyangu tree, he attained Keval Jnana (omniscience). Having shed all karmic bonds, he achieved perfect knowledge and delivered divine sermons known as Divya Dhvani.

He preached the eternal values of Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), guiding seekers toward liberation.

Moksha and Liberation

After years of spiritual teaching, Shree Abhinandan Bhagwan attained Moksha at Sammed Shikharji on Vaishakh Shukla Ashtami, along with 1,000 monks. His soul ascended to Siddhashila, the eternal abode of liberated beings, free from the cycle of birth and death.

Unheard & Hidden Spiritual Insights

• During his previous life as King Mahabal, a divine sage prophesied his future birth as a Tirthankara.
• His celestial protectors are Yaksha Yakshesvara and Yakshini Vajrasrinkala, who continue to bless his devotees.
• Unlike many Tirthankaras, his idols are rarely found in standing posture, reflecting his inner calmness.
• The historic temple dedicated to him in Ayodhya is among the oldest and most revered Jain shrines.
• Although his dynasty produced mighty emperors, he chose renunciation over power—setting an example of self-mastery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1) Why is he called "Abhinandan"?
Because his birth brought immense joy, and celestial beings celebrated the occasion.

2) What is his key message?
That self-discipline and detachment lead to true happiness and liberation.

3) Where did he attain Moksha?
At the sacred Sammed Shikharji, the holiest site for Jain pilgrims.

4) What makes him unique among the 24 Tirthankaras?
His reign was exceptionally peaceful before his renunciation, unlike others who faced greater worldly challenges.