Shree Rishabhdev Bhagwan – The First Jain Tirthankara

Shree Rishabhdev Bhagwan, also known as Adinath, is the first Tirthankara of the current cosmic time cycle (Avasarpini). His life marked the dawn of civilization, spiritual awakening, and ethical living in Jain tradition. He was the first king, the first renunciant, and the first spiritual teacher – a beacon of divine knowledge in an age of ignorance.

His symbol is the Bull (Vrishabh), representing strength, patience, and dharma.

Shri Adinath Bhagwan: A Divine Journey

In Jain cosmology, Tirthankaras have multiple significant births before attaining enlightenment. Rishabhdev Bhagwan had three noteworthy past lives before becoming a Tirthankara:

• 1. King Vajrajangha: A powerful and righteous ruler who practiced kindness, truth, and charity – this birth initiated his journey toward purity.
• 2. Deva in Sarvarthasiddhi Heaven: As a celestial being in the highest heavenly realm, he prepared for his final birth due to his immense spiritual merit.
• 3. Final Birth as Rishabhdev: Born in Ayodhya to King Nabhiraja and Queen Marudevi, this birth marked his emergence as the first Tirthankara and spiritual guide of the era.

Marriage Life and Family

Before his renunciation, Rishabhdev led an ideal worldly life. He had two wives:

• Queen Sumangala: Mother of 99 sons and a daughter named Sundari. She supported him in his royal duties and upheld dharmic values.
• Queen Sunanda: Mother of Bharat (the first Chakravarti emperor) and Bahubali (a symbol of strength and spiritual wisdom).

He taught his family and people the importance of righteous living and moral responsibility.

Beliefs and Teachings

Rishabhdev Bhagwan introduced core Jain principles:

• Ahimsa (non-violence)
• Satya (truth)
• Aparigraha (non-possessiveness)
• Tapasya (austerity)

He established two societal systems: Shramans (ascetics) and Shravaks (householders), forming the foundation of Jain community life.

Renunciation and Spiritual Journey

After fulfilling his worldly duties, Rishabhdev renounced the world and became an ascetic. His renunciation was profound – many of his sons and followers became monks.

• He fasted for a year before accepting sugarcane juice from Shreyans Kumar.
• He attained Keval Jnana (omniscience) through deep meditation and penance.
• He achieved Moksha (liberation) at Mount Ashtapad (Kailash).

Unknown & Fascinating Facts

• He was the first king and first lawgiver of the era.
• Introduced six primary professions for societal order.
• His mother Marudevi was the first soul to attain Moksha in this era.
• Mentioned in Hindu scriptures like the Bhagavata Purana as an incarnation of Dharma.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1) How many births did Rishabh Bhagwan take before becoming a Tirthankara?
He took 11 births before attaining Keval Gyaan and Moksha.

2) What is the symbol (laanchhan) of Rishabh Bhagwan?
His symbol is the Bull (Vrushabh), representing strength and moral courage.

3) Where did Rishabh Bhagwan attain Moksha?
He attained Moksha at Mount Ashtapad, a sacred Jain site.