Answer

In a Jain temple, the Mulnayak is the main presiding idol of the temple. It is usually decided before or during the establishment of the temple, based on the spiritual intention of the temple founders, the guidance of Jain Acharyas or learned monks, and the traditional suitability of the idol for that temple.

Explanation

The word Mulnayak means the “main Lord” or “principal deity” of the temple. In Jain Dharma, this is normally one of the 24 Tirthankars.

The decision may be influenced by:

• Original intention of the donors or founders: The family or sangh establishing the temple may have deep devotion toward a particular Tirthankar.
• Guidance of Acharyas or learned saints: Traditionally, important temple matters are done with religious guidance to maintain correctness and sanctity.
• Historical or local tradition: Some temples are connected with a particular Tirthankar due to local faith, ancient history, or previous temple tradition.
• Pratishtha ceremony: The idol that is ritually consecrated as the central and primary idol becomes the Mulnayak.
• Temple design: The central idol in the main sanctum, usually placed in the main garbhagriha, is recognized as the Mulnayak.

In many temples, the Mulnayak is placed in the central position, and other idols are placed around or in separate shrines.

Spiritual Understanding

Jains do not worship a Tirthankar as a creator-god or giver of worldly favors. The Mulnayak represents the highest ideal of the liberated soul: perfect knowledge, perfect faith, perfect conduct, and freedom from karma.

So the importance of the Mulnayak is not that one Tirthankar is “greater” than another. All Tirthankars are spiritually perfect. The Mulnayak serves as the main focus for devotion, meditation, and worship in that temple.

Takeaway

The Mulnayak is decided through tradition, devotion, religious guidance, and consecration. Once established, the Mulnayak becomes the main spiritual focus of that Jain temple.