Shree Shitalnath Bhagwan – The Tenth Tirthankara

Shree Shitalnath Bhagwan is the 10th Tirthankara of the present Avasarpini (descending half-cycle of time) in Jainism. His name, Shital, means cool, calm, and peaceful, symbolizing the serenity he radiated, bringing comfort and harmony to all.

He was born in Bhadrikapuri (Bhadilpur) to King Dridhrath and Queen Sunanda of the Ikshvaku dynasty. His symbol (lanchhan) is the Lotus (Kamal), representing purity, detachment, and spiritual awakening. He attained Keval Gyan (omniscience) under the Pushkarini Tree and later achieved Moksha (liberation) at Sammed Shikharji.

Birth and Childhood

• Parents: King Dridhrath and Queen Sunanda
  

• Birthplace: Bhadrikapuri (Bhadilpur)
  

• Dynasty: Ikshvaku Dynasty
  

• Symbol (Lanchhan): Lotus (Kamal)
  

• Sacred Tree: Pushkarini Tree
  

• Yaksha: Brahma
  

• Yakshini: Ashoka
  

• Complexion: Golden
  

• Height: 90 bows
  

From his early years, Shitalnath Bhagwan displayed extraordinary wisdom, compassion, and calmness. Despite being raised in royal luxury, his heart was inclined toward spirituality and detachment from worldly desires.

Previous Birth

In his previous life, Shitalnath Bhagwan was a devout and charitable king who ruled with fairness and compassion. His accumulation of pious karmas and deep devotion to dharma paved the way for his rebirth as a Tirthankara.

Renunciation and Spiritual Journey

Although married and blessed with a family, he realized the impermanence of worldly life and chose the path of renunciation. He accepted Diksha (ascetic initiation), practiced severe penance, and through deep meditation under the Pushkarini Tree, attained Keval Gyan (omniscience).

Keval Gyan and Teachings

After attaining Keval Gyan, Shitalnath Bhagwan established the Samavasaran (divine preaching hall) and spread the eternal principles of Jain Dharma. His teachings focused on:

• Samvar Bhavna – the contemplation to stop the influx of karma.
  

• Ahimsa (Non-violence) – peace and respect toward all living beings.
  

• Satya (Truth) – honesty and purity in thoughts, words, and deeds.
  

• Vairagya (Detachment) – freedom from material desires and attachments.
  

His calm nature could soothe even the most restless souls, embodying his name “Shitalnath.”

Nirvana (Liberation)

• Place: Sammed Shikharji (Parasnath Hills, Jharkhand)
  After a life dedicated to spreading peace and truth, Shitalnath Bhagwan attained Nirvana (Moksha), becoming a Siddha — a liberated soul beyond birth and death.
  

Hidden and Spiritual Insights

• Queen Sunanda, his mother, had 16 auspicious dreams before his birth, signifying the arrival of a Tirthankara.
  

• His Lotus symbol illustrates rising above worldly impurities to achieve spiritual enlightenment.
  

• His divine aura spread coolness and peace wherever he went, calming troubled minds.
  

• His chief disciples (Gandhars) helped preserve his teachings, guiding future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Shree Shitalnath Bhagwan

Q1. Why is he called Shitalnath?
👉 Because of his calm and peaceful nature, which spread tranquility wherever he went.

Q2. Under which tree did Shitalnath Bhagwan attain Keval Gyan?
👉 He attained Keval Gyan under the Pushkarini Tree.

Q3. What is the symbol (lanchhan) of Shitalnath Bhagwan?
👉 His symbol is the Lotus (Kamal), representing purity, detachment, and enlightenment.

Q4. Where did Shitalnath Bhagwan attain Nirvana?
👉 He attained Nirvana at Sammed Shikharji (Parasnath Hills, Jharkhand).

Q5. What is Shitalnath Bhagwan’s spiritual significance?
👉 He is revered as a symbol of inner calm and detachment, guiding devotees to transcend worldly desires and attain true freedom of the soul.