A Vital Matters Perspective: The 24 Jina and the Importance of Rishabhadeva,  Ma

The 24 Jina and the Importance of Rishabhadeva,  Mahāvīra, and Parsvanatha

In Jain tradition, 24 Jinas (or Tīrthankaras) appear in every upward and downward time cycle, but three hold special significance in devotional practice. Rishabha, the first Jina, is revered as both a spiritual teacher and the first king and lawgiver, with his mother said to have attained liberation upon witnessing his enlightenment. Mahāvīra, the 24th and final Jina of the current cycle, was a contemporary of the Buddha who renounced royalty, practiced intense asceticism, and achieved omniscience, shaping the foundation of modern Jainism. Pārśvanātha, the 23rd Jina, is remembered for his story of overcoming seven lifetimes of conflict, ultimately achieving liberation with the aid of the Serpent King Dhundiraja, symbolizing protection and karmic resolution.

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1 ARTWORK

Guatama's Pilgrimage to Ashtapada

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Guatama's Pilgrimage to Ashtapada

Unidentified artist(s)

Chod pata of Guatama's Pilgrimage to Ashtapada

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Guatama's Pilgrimage to Ashtapada

Unidentified artist(s)

Chod pata of Guatama's Pilgrimage to Ashtapada

p034

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t001

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v0190

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1 PERSON
headshot of Steven Vose

Steven

Vose

Assistant Professor of Jain Studies, Religious Studies, and History

University of Colorado, Denver

headshot of Steven Vose

Steven

Vose

Assistant Professor of Jain Studies, Religious Studies, and History

University of Colorado, Denver

headshot of Steven Vose

Steven

Vose

Assistant Professor of Jain Studies, Religious Studies, and History

University of Colorado, Denver

Copyright © 2025 Fowler Museum.

All Rights Reserved.

Copyright © 2025 Fowler Museum.

All Rights Reserved.

Copyright © 2025 Fowler Museum.

All Rights Reserved.