Place of Origin: Bhaddilpur, India
Origin Date: According to Jain chronology, Shitalanatha lived millions of years ago.
Domain: Spirituality, renunciation, teachings of Jainism
Symbols: Kalpavriksha (wish-fulfilling tree)
Attributes: Spiritual teacher, symbol of abundance and fulfillment, guide towards liberation
Equivalents: There are no direct equivalents of Shitalanatha in other religions, as he is unique to Jainism.
Epithets: Shitalanatha (Lord of Calmness), Shitalaprabhu
Relations: Father: King Dridharatha, Mother: Queen Nanda
Sacred Texts: Ādi purāṇa, Mahāpurāṇa
Iconography: Shitalanatha is typically depicted in a meditative posture with a Kalpavriksha symbol. In Shvetambara sect art, he is shown in gold color, while in Digambara sect art, he is depicted in yellow.
Religion: Jainism
Description
Lord Shitalanatha is celebrated as the 10th Tirthankara of the present age, known as Avasarpini, in Jainism. Born to King Dridharatha and Queen Sunanda in Bhaddilpur, part of the Ikshvaku dynasty, his birth was marked by auspicious signs, symbolizing his destiny as a spiritual guide. His name, meaning "Lord of Calmness," reflects his serene and composed nature.
Renouncing his royal life, Shitalanatha embraced asceticism and dedicated himself to the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Through intense meditation and penance, he attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) under a Pilurikha tree and became a Tirthankara, re-establishing the Jain teachings and guiding others on the path to liberation.
Lord Shitalanatha’s teachings emphasize the core Jain principles of non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-possessiveness (aparigraha). He attained moksha (liberation) on Mount Sammeda (Parasnath Hill) in Jharkhand, becoming a siddha, a liberated soul free from the cycle of birth and death.
Shitalanatha is often depicted in a meditative posture, with his symbol, the Kalpavriksha (wish-fulfilling tree), representing abundance and fulfillment. His legacy continues to inspire Jain practitioners, and numerous temples are dedicated to him, including the Shitalanatha Temple in Kolkata and other sacred sites.
Narratives
Birth of Shitalanatha:
Shitalanatha was born to King Dradhrath and Queen Nanda in the city of Bhaddilpur. His birth date was the twelfth day of the Magha Krishna month of the Indian national calendar. His birth was marked by auspicious signs, and he was destined to become a Tirthankara.
Renunciation and Ascetic Life:
Shitalanatha renounced his royal life and worldly pleasures to pursue spiritual knowledge. He became an ascetic and dedicated himself to intense meditation and penance. His journey of renunciation highlights his commitment to spiritual growth and the pursuit of liberation.
Attainment of Kevala Jnana:
Through intense meditation and ascetic practices, Shitalanatha attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience), becoming fully enlightened. His teachings focused on the core Jain principles of non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-possessiveness (aparigraha).
Role as a Tirthankara:
As a Tirthankara, Shitalanatha's role was to re-establish the Jain community and provide spiritual guidance. He taught the path to liberation (moksha) and emphasized the importance of self-discipline, ethical living, and spiritual awareness. His teachings and discourses attracted many followers.
Liberation (Moksha):
Shitalanatha attained moksha (liberation) on Mount Sammeda (Parasnath Hill) in Jharkhand. He became a siddha, a liberated soul that has destroyed all of its karma. Shitalanatha's liberation is celebrated by Jains, and numerous temples are dedicated to him.
Worship Beliefs and Practices of Lord Shitalanatha
Lord Shitalanatha is the tenth Tirthankara in Jainism, revered for his spiritual achievements and teachings. He is celebrated for his compassion, renunciation, and dedication to the path of liberation.
Core Beliefs
Tirthankara: Shitalanatha 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, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possessiveness.
Compassion and Renunciation: Shitalanatha is celebrated for his compassion towards all living beings. He renounced his royal life and worldly pleasures to pursue spiritual knowledge and attain enlightenment.
Spiritual Liberation: Shitalanatha 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: Shitalanatha is often depicted in a meditative posture, symbolizing his spiritual enlightenment. His emblem is the Kalpavriksha (Wishing Tree) according to Digambara tradition, and the Srivatsa according to Shwetambara tradition. He is associated with the Pilurikha tree.
Symbols: Common symbols associated with Shitalanatha include the Kalpavriksha and the Srivatsa. These symbols are used in rituals and ceremonies to invoke his presence and blessings.
Cultural Hero: The stories and depictions of Shitalanatha 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 Shitalanatha. These include offerings of food, flowers, and other goods to seek his favor and protection. Rituals often take place in temples dedicated to Shitalanatha, where devotees can offer prayers and make offerings.
Sacred Sites: Temples and shrines dedicated to Shitalanatha can be found throughout India and other regions with Jain populations. Some of the most famous sites include the Shitalanatha Temple in Kolkata and the Kallu Basadi in Moodbidri.
Offerings: Offerings to Shitalanatha typically include food, flowers, and items related to his symbols, such as Kalpavriksha and Srivatsa figurines. These offerings symbolize gratitude and the desire for protection and blessings.
Festivals and Traditions
Shitalanatha Jayanti: Shitalanatha Jayanti is a major festival dedicated to Shitalanatha, celebrating his birth. The festival includes prayers, rituals, and offerings to seek Shitalanatha's blessings for the coming year.
Cultural Celebrations: Shitalanatha'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 Shitalanatha for protection, compassion, and the successful practice of their spiritual beliefs. Traditional prayers often invoke his role as the tenth Tirthankara and a symbol of renunciation.
Shitalanatha's role as the tenth Tirthankara embodies the core values and beliefs of Jainism, emphasizing the importance of compassion, renunciation, and spiritual liberation.