Life & History
Pushpadanta, more commonly called Suvidhinatha, is traditionally said to have been born in the city of Kakandi to King Sugriva and Queen Rama.
As with most Tirthankaras of this remote cosmic era, little independently verifiable biographical detail survives; his story is transmitted through Jain religious literature and temple tradition.
His identifying emblem is the makara (crocodile), a symbol traditionally associated with strength and command over primal forces, and he is depicted accordingly in Jain iconography.
He is venerated as part of the continuous lineage of enlightened teachers who, in successive eras, re-establish the Jain path of liberation for the beings of their time.
Teaching & Significance
Suvidhinatha's teaching, in keeping with all Tirthankaras, centers on ahimsa, truthful and disciplined conduct, and the soul's liberation from the cycle of karma and rebirth.
At a Glance
- Position
- Ninth of twenty-four
- Emblem (Lanchhana)
- Crocodile (Makara)
- Traditional colour
- White
- Moksha Sthal
- Sammed Shikharji (Parasnath Hill, Jharkhand)