Historical Tirthankaras

Parshvanatha: The 23rd Jain Tirthankara from Varanasi

Parshvanatha, the 23rd Jain Tirthankara, was born in Varanasi. He is historically recognized for teaching the four main vows of Jainism.

Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference

Archived: 2016

Updated: 20 Jun 2026

Exam Year

2016

Evidence Source

Link ↗

Parshvanatha, the Jain 'Thirthankara' was associated mainly with which of the following places?

[UPPCS Mains 2016]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Parshvanatha is historically recognized as the 23rd Tirthankara of Jainism, living approximately 250 years before Mahavira.

Authentic Source Evidence

He was the son of King Ashvasena of Varanasi. He renounced the world at age 30 and achieved enlightenment on Mount Sammeta (Sammed Shikhar). His symbol is the snake.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option A is correct. Varanasi is the birthplace of Parshvanatha and remains a major center of Jain pilgrimage.

Logic 2: While other places like Kaushambi (B) and Champa (D) are associated with other Tirthankaras, Varanasi is the primary historical association for the 23rd.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What was Parshvanatha's main teaching?"

He taught the 'Chaturyama Dharma' consisting of four vows: Non-violence, Truth, Non-stealing, and Non-possession.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Parshvanatha's historicity is widely accepted by scholars, making him one of the earliest verifiable spiritual teachers of ancient India."

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