Life & History
Jain tradition holds that Sumatinatha was born into the Ikshvaku dynasty to King Megha (also known as Meghaprabha) and Queen Mangala (also known as Sumangala) in the city of Ayodhya.
His name, meaning 'one of right wisdom,' reflects the wisdom associated with his teaching. As with most Tirthankaras of this early era, detailed biographical narrative is limited beyond the traditional account of his birth, renunciation, and enlightenment. He is identified in Jain iconography by his emblem, the curlew (or partridge, depending on tradition).
He is venerated primarily for his role as a Tirthankara who reaffirmed the eternal Jain teachings for the beings of his age.
Teaching & Significance
Sumatinatha taught the shared Jain path of ahimsa, right knowledge, and right conduct leading to the soul's liberation.
At a Glance
- Position
- Fifth of twenty-four
- Emblem (Lanchhana)
- Curlew (Krauncha)
- Traditional colour
- Golden
- Moksha Sthal
- Sammed Shikharji, Jharkhand