Lord Mahavira
The twenty-fourth Tirthankara
Tirthankara (a liberated soul who has destroyed all of its karma)
Relations: None
Place of Origin: Bihar, India
Origin Date: 6th century BCE
Domain: Spiritual liberation, ethical living
Symbols: Lion, Swastika
Attributes: Non-violence, truth, asceticism
Epithets: Vardhamana, Mahavira (Great Hero)
Equivalents: None
Religion: Jainism
Sacred Texts: Kalpa Sūtra, Ācāranga Sūtra
Iconography: Depicted in a meditative posture, often seated or standing in the Kayotsarga (standing meditation) pose.
Description
Lord Mahavira, born as Vardhamana, is the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. He revitalized the Jain community and is known for his teachings on non-violence, truth, and asceticism. He attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) and Moksha (liberation).
Narratives
Birth of Mahavira:
Mahavira, also known as Vardhamana, was born to King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala in the city of Kundalpur (present-day Bihar, India). His birth was marked by auspicious signs, and he was destined to become the 24th Tirthankara. Queen Trishala had sixteen divine dreams, indicating the birth of a great soul. Mahavira's birth is celebrated as Mahavir Janma Kalyanak.
Early Life and Bravery:
As a child, Mahavira displayed extraordinary courage and strength. He was given the name "Mahavira" (meaning "Great Hero") after showing bravery by taming a ferocious cobra. He grew up in a royal family, receiving education and training in various arts and sciences.
Renunciation and Ascetic Life:
At the age of 30, Mahavira renounced his royal life and worldly pleasures to pursue spiritual knowledge. He left his home and became an ascetic, dedicating himself to intense meditation and severe austerities. He practiced non-violence (ahimsa) and other Jain principles with utmost dedication.
Attainment of Kevala Jnana:
After twelve and a half years of intense meditation and ascetic practices, Mahavira attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) under a Shala tree. He became fully enlightened and gained complete knowledge of the universe. His teachings focused on the core Jain principles of non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possessiveness.
Preaching and Establishment of Jain Sangha:
Mahavira spent the next 30 years traveling and preaching his teachings. He established the Jain Sangha (community) and attracted many followers. His teachings emphasized the importance of self-discipline, ethical living, and spiritual awareness. He taught the principles of Anekantavada (many-sided reality), Syadvada (conditional viewpoints), and Nayavada (perspectives).
Liberation (Moksha):
Mahavira attained moksha (liberation) at the age of 72 in Pawapuri (present-day Bihar, India). He became a siddha, a liberated soul that has destroyed all of its karma. Mahavira's liberation is celebrated by Jains, and numerous temples are dedicated to him. His nirvana is commemorated during the festival of Diwali.
Worship Beliefs and Practices of Lord Mahavira
Lord Mahavira, also known as Vardhamana, is the twenty-fourth and last Tirthankara in Jainism. He is revered for his profound spiritual teachings and his role in revitalizing the Jain community.
Core Beliefs
Tirthankara: Mahavira is one of the twenty-four Tirthankaras, spiritual teachers who have attained enlightenment and guide others on the path to liberation. His teachings emphasize non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-possessiveness (aparigraha).
Revitalizer of Jainism: Mahavira is credited with revitalizing and organizing the Jain community. He re-established the principles of Jainism and provided a structured framework for its followers.
Spiritual Liberation: Mahavira attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) and became a siddha, a liberated soul free from the cycle of birth and death. His teachings focus on the core Jain principles and the path to moksha (liberation).
Attributes and Significance
Depictions: Mahavira is often depicted in a meditative posture, symbolizing his spiritual enlightenment. His emblem is the lion, and he is associated with the Sal tree.
Symbols: Common symbols associated with Mahavira include the lion and the Sal tree. These symbols are used in rituals and ceremonies to invoke his presence and blessings.
Cultural Hero: The stories and depictions of Mahavira are passed down through generations, maintaining their significance in Jain culture and mythology. He is a symbol of compassion, renunciation, and spiritual liberation.
Practices of Worship
Rituals and Ceremonies: Devotees perform various rituals and ceremonies to honor Mahavira. These include offerings of food, flowers, and other goods to seek his favor and protection. Rituals often take place in temples dedicated to Mahavira, where devotees can offer prayers and make offerings.
Sacred Sites: Temples and shrines dedicated to Mahavira can be found throughout India and other regions with Jain populations. Some of the most famous sites include the Mahavirji Temple in Rajasthan and the Palitana Temples in Gujarat.
Offerings: Offerings to Mahavira typically include food, flowers, and items related to his symbols, such as lion figurines and Sal leaves. These offerings symbolize gratitude and the desire for protection and blessings.
Festivals and Traditions
Mahavir Jayanti: Mahavir Jayanti is a major festival dedicated to Mahavira, celebrating his birth. The festival includes prayers, rituals, and offerings to seek Mahavira's blessings for the coming year.
Cultural Celebrations: Mahavira's story may be included in cultural celebrations and festivals that honor Jain heritage and traditions. These gatherings often include music, dance, and storytelling.
Prayers: Devotees pray to Mahavira for protection, compassion, and the successful practice of their spiritual beliefs. Traditional prayers often invoke his role as the twenty-fourth Tirthankara and a symbol of renunciation.
Mahavira's role as the twenty-fourth Tirthankara embodies the core values and beliefs of Jainism, emphasizing the importance of compassion, renunciation, and spiritual liberation.