Jain Iconography

Match Jain Tirthankaras with their Symbols

Adinatha is associated with the Bull, Mallinatha with the Water Jar, Parshavanatha with the Snake, and Sambhavnatha with the Horse.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class 11 - An Introduction to Indian Art

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Match the following Tirthankaras with their symbols:
TirthankaraSymbol
A. Adinatha1. Bull
B. Mallinatha2. Water Jar
C. Parshavanatha3. Serpent
D. Sambhavnatha4. Horse

[UPSC CSE / State Exams]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Each of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras is associated with a specific animal or object (Lanchhana) to distinguish their iconography.

Authentic Source Evidence


Iconographic texts like the 'Pratima Lakshana' and various temple carvings confirm these associations.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Adinatha (Rishabhanatha): Bull (1).

  • Mallinatha: Water Jar (Kumbha) (4).

  • Parshavanatha: Snake (Shesha) (3).

  • Sambhavnatha: Horse (2).
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What is the symbol for the 24th Tirthankara, Mahavira?"

    The Lion is the symbol associated with Lord Mahavira.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "These symbols were essential for lay followers to identify specific deities in temples where statues are otherwise identical in facial and bodily form."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

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