Explore Jainism

“Explore the timeless teachings, rich history, and sacred temples of Jainism. Discover a path of peace, non-violence, and spiritual wisdom.”

Shitalanatha: The Tenth Tirthankara of Jainism

Shitalanatha, the tenth Tirthankara, was born in Bhadrikapuri, a city renowned for its spiritual significance. His name, which means “coolness” or “calmness,” reflects his serene and composed nature. Shitalanatha’s teachings emphasized the importance of inner calm and detachment from worldly desires. He believed that by cultivating a calm and peaceful mind, one could overcome the distractions of material life and focus on the path to spiritual enlightenment.

As a prince, Shitalanatha ruled his kingdom with fairness and compassion, but he eventually renounced his royal life to pursue asceticism after realizing the impermanence of material wealth and power. His life of self-discipline and meditation led him to attain spiritual liberation, and his teachings continue to inspire followers to seek inner peace through detachment and self-control.

The Power of Calmness: Shitalanatha’s story teaches that maintaining inner calm in the face of life’s challenges is essential for spiritual growth. His life inspires others to cultivate serenity and detachment from material desires, demonstrating that true peace comes from within and is the key to attaining spiritual enlightenment.

Principles

Shitalanatha emphasized

 NON – VIOLENCE

   (AHIMSA)   

Protect all beings by practicing non-violence in every action.

CALMNESS

(Shanti)

Maintain inner calmness to overcome worldly distractions and challenges.

DETACHMENT

(Vairagya)

Let go of material desires to achieve true spiritual liberation.

Symbol and its Meaning

Kalpavriksh

Prosperity and Compassion:

The kalpavriksha symbolizes wealth and generosity, reflecting Shitalanatha’s caring nature.

c

Symbol of Goodness:

The kalpavriksha is a mark of auspiciousness, symbolizing Shitalanatha’s promotion of compassionate behavior and virtuous living to attain spiritual enlightenment.

Origin

Shitalanatha, the tenth Tirthankara, emphasized the cooling effect of non-violence and patience. His teachings encouraged peace and non-harm toward all living beings. Shitalanatha’s role underscored the significance of peaceful coexistence and the avoidance of harm to any creature, central to Jain ethics.

Story and Life Lesson

Shitalanatha’s life emphasizes the significance of self-control and discipline in the journey toward spiritual awakening. His strict self-discipline allowed him to overcome temptations and distractions, leading him to enlightenment. His story teaches that by mastering one’s desires and practicing self-restraint, one can achieve inner peace and clarity. Shitalanatha’s life is a reminder that the path to liberation requires the discipline to control both the mind and senses, highlighting that self-mastery is essential for attaining spiritual freedom and inner contentment.