The Followers of Pārśvanātha
By Binod Kumar Tiwary
Summary
Pārśvanātha, the 23rd Tīrthaṅkara, was a reformer in the 9th–8th centuries BCE who denounced social corruption and preached universal welfare. After attaining omniscience, he led a large community comprising monks, nuns, lay votaries and various types of saints. Śvetāmbara and Digambara sources describe his followers differently, but both agree on his wide influence. The article lists kings such as Nagnati of Gandhāra, Nimi of Videha and Karakaṇḍa of Kaliṅga among his patrons and suggests that even Gautama Buddha’s early asceticism may have been influenced by Jain practice. It also describes the Sarākā community of Bihar and Bengal, whose customs reflect Jain roots despite later Hinduisation. Pārśva’s legacy provided a strong foundation for Mahāvīra’s later reorganisation of the Jain saṅgha.
Conclusion
By attracting supporters from all strata and regions, PÄrÅ›vanÄtha laid the organisational and doctrinal groundwork for later Jain developments. His inclusive community and reformist message continue to shape Jain religious life.