According to Jain cosmology, there are 24 Tirthankaras in every time cycle (Kalchakra), and the first among them is Rishabhanatha, also revered as Adinatha, meaning "The First Lord" His life signifies the beginning of human civilization, ethical living, and spiritual awakening. He was the first spiritual teacher (Tirthankar), the first king, and the first renunciant — a beacon of knowledge in an age of darkness.

He is also known as the first king of the current time cycle (Avasarpini). His symbol is the bull (Vrishabh), which stands for strength and patience.

Shri Adinath Bhagwan: A Divine Journey

In Jain tradition, the lives of Tirthankaras are not limited to a single birth.Shri Adinath Bhagwan, also known as Rishabhdev, had multiple significant births before becoming the first Tirthankar of the current time cycle (Avasarpini). Among them, three main births are often remembered and described in Jain scriptures.

1. First Birth – King Vajrajangha

Was born as King Vajrajangha. He was a powerful and virtuous ruler who followed Dharma and practiced kindness, truth, and charity. This birth marked the beginning of His journey toward spiritual upliftment and purity.

2. Second Birth – Deva in Sarvarthasiddhi Heaven

After completing his life as Vajrajangha, his soul took rebirth in Sarvarthasiddhi, the highest heavenly realm, as a Deva (celestial being). This was a result of the immense good karma and spiritual progress from his previous birth. In this divine form, he enjoyed heavenly pleasures and prepared for his final human birth.

3. Third and Final Birth – As Shri Rishabhdev (Adinath)

His soul took birth on Earth as Rishabhdev, son of King Nabhiraja and Queen Marudevi, in Ayodhya. This was his last and most important birth, where he became the first Tirthankar and a guide for all souls. He not only taught people how to live a civilized life but also led them on the path of liberation (Moksha).

 Rishabh Bhagwan’s (Adinath) Marriage Life and Family

Before renouncing the world and becoming a Tirthankar, he led a complete and ideal family life, teaching society how to live with values, responsibility, and righteousness.

Rishabh Bhagwan had two wives in his worldly life. His first wife was Queen Sumangala, who was the mother of 99 sons and one daughter named Sundari. She supported him in his early royal life and helped establish dharmic values in the family.

His second wife was Queen Sunanda, who gave birth to two famous sons – Bharat and Bahubali. Bharat later became the first Chakravarti (universal emperor), and Bahubali became a symbol of strength, wisdom, and deep spiritual practice. Both queens played an important role in maintaining dharma and family balance in Rishabh Bhagwan’s life.

Beliefs and Teachings

Rishabhanatha taught the path of Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), and Tapasya (austerity).

He emphasized self-realization, detachment, and a disciplined spiritual life.

He established two types of societies:

• Shramans (ascetics) and

• Shravaks (householders) — a system that still exists in Jainism today.

 Unknown & Fascinating Facts About Rishabhanatha

1. First Lawgiver and First King: He introduced law, ethics, and societal structure.

2. Inventor of Professions: Divided society into six primary professions for better living.

3. He Ate After a Year of Fasting: After renunciation, he accepted food only after a year, symbolizing detachment

4. Mother Marudevi Attained Moksha: She was the first soul in this era to attain liberation.

5. He Achieved Moksha at Mount Ashtapad (Kailash): A sacred site for spiritual seekers.

6. Mentioned in Other Texts: Even Hindu texts like Bhagavata Purana refer to him as an incarnation of Dharma.

Renunciation and Spiritual Journey

After fulfilling all family and social duties, Rishabh Bhagwan renounced everything and became a Muni (ascetic). His renunciation was so impactful that:

• Many of his sons and followers also became monks.

• He lived without food for a long period (until he got sugarcane juice from Shreyans Kumar).

• He attained Keval Gyaan (absolute knowledge) and finally Moksha on Ashtapad Hill.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many births did Rishabh Bhagwan take before becoming a Tirthankar

   He took 11 births in total before becoming a Tirthankar and attaining Moksha.

2. What is the symbol (laanchhan) of Rishabh Bhagwan?

His symbol is the bull (Vrushabh).

3. Where did Rishabh Bhagwan attain Moksha?

He attained Moksha (liberation) at Mount Ashtapad.