Shree Vasupujya Bhagwan – The Twelfth Tirthankara

Shree Vasupujya Bhagwan, the 12th Tirthankara of the present Avasarpini cycle, is deeply revered in Jainism for his wisdom, compassion, and spiritual strength. He is the only Tirthankara whose worldly name and Tirthankara name are the same, symbolizing purity and steadfastness throughout his life. His symbol (lanchhan) is the Buffalo, representing determination and resilience.

Birth and Lineage

• Parents: King Vasupujya and Queen Jaya Devi
  

• Birthplace: Champapuri (present-day Bihar)
  

• Dynasty: Ikshvaku Dynasty
  

• Symbol (Lanchhan): Buffalo
  

• Yaksha: Kumara Yaksha
  

• Yakshini: Chandani Yakshini Devi
  

• Sacred Tree: Piyala
  

• Complexion: Red (Raktavarna)
  

His birth was celebrated with divine signs and joy, marking the arrival of a great spiritual soul.

Childhood and Early Life

From a young age, Shree Vasupujya Bhagwan displayed wisdom, compassion, and detachment from material pleasures. Unlike ordinary princes, he showed little interest in wealth and royal luxuries. Instead, he was naturally inclined toward spirituality and self-realization.

Renunciation

Despite his parents’ wishes, Vasupujya Bhagwan renounced worldly life, choosing the path of asceticism and meditation. His strong determination and discipline soon set him apart as a soul destined for enlightenment.

Keval Gyan (Omniscience)

Within just one month of renunciation, Vasupujya Bhagwan attained Keval Gyan (infinite knowledge) after deep meditation and penance — making him unique among Tirthankaras for achieving enlightenment so swiftly.

With divine knowledge, he established the Samavasaran (divine preaching hall) and guided countless beings toward the path of liberation.

Teachings and Philosophy

Shree Vasupujya Bhagwan’s teachings emphasized:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence): Compassion toward all living beings.
  

• Satya (Truth): Righteousness in thought, speech, and action.
  

• Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness): Detachment from materialism and desires.
  

• Self-Discipline: Inner purity through meditation and penance.
  

He inspired both rulers and common people to embrace simplicity, humility, and spiritual awareness.

Nirvana (Moksha)

• Place: Champapuri (Bihar)
  

• Time: On the 14th day of the bright half of Ashadh month
  Shree Vasupujya Bhagwan attained Moksha (liberation) at his birthplace itself, a rare occurrence among the Tirthankaras.
  

Unique and Hidden Facts

• Single Birth Liberation: Unlike other Tirthankaras who underwent multiple births before attaining Moksha, Vasupujya Bhagwan attained salvation in the same birth.
  

• Unchanged Name: He is the only Tirthankara whose name remained the same before and after becoming a Tirthankara.
  

• Quick Enlightenment: He achieved Keval Gyan within one month of renunciation — an extraordinary feat.
  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What was the purpose of Shree Vasupujya Bhagwan’s teachings?
👉 To guide beings toward ethical living, non-violence, self-discipline, and ultimately Moksha (liberation).

Q2. What is the significance of his symbol, the Buffalo?
👉 It represents strength, determination, and spiritual resilience on the path of righteousness.

Q3. Where did Shree Vasupujya Bhagwan attain Keval Gyan?
👉 He attained Keval Gyan in Champapuri, Bihar, after deep penance.

Q4. Where did he attain Nirvana?
👉 He attained Nirvana at Champapuri, his birthplace, on the 14th day of the bright half of Ashadh month.

Q5. What makes him unique among Tirthankaras?
👉 He attained Moksha in the same birth, his name remained unchanged, and he achieved Keval Gyan within one month of renunciation.

Spiritual Significance

The life of Shree Vasupujya Bhagwan inspires us to live with truth, discipline, and compassion. His rare achievements remind us that with unwavering determination, liberation is possible even within a single lifetime.