The Murti (idol) of Parshwanath Bhagwan at Girnar is deeply revered in Jain tradition and is associated with many inspiring stories from Jain scriptures and oral tradition.

Story and Significance:

Girnar, located in Gujarat, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Jains. The site is especially associated with the 22nd Tirthankara, Parshwanath Bhagwan. According to Jain belief and tradition, Parshwanath attained Nirvana (liberation) on Mount Girnar.

The main temple on Girnar houses a black marble idol of Parshwanath Bhagwan, depicted in the Kayotsarga (standing meditation) posture, which is typical for Tirthankara images. The idol is adorned with a seven-hooded serpent canopy, symbolizing the legend associated with Parshwanath.

Legend Behind the Idol: One of the most famous legends tells that Parshwanath, in a previous life, saved two serpents (Dharnendra and Padmavati) from a fire. Later, as Parshwanath meditated under a tree, the evil Kamath (his old adversary) tried to disturb his penance by unleashing a heavy storm and rain. Dharnendra, now the Naga king, appeared and protected Parshwanath by spreading his multi-hooded canopy over him, while Padmavati coiled around his feet. This is why Parshwanath is almost always depicted with the snake hoods above his head, and it's the central visual feature in the Girnar idol.

Girnar as Nirvana Kshetra: According to Jain scriptures, after a long life of spiritual teaching, Parshwanath Bhagwan attained Moksha (liberation) from the summit of Mount Girnar. This makes it a Nirvana-bhoomi (place of liberation), greatly increasing the sanctity of the place and the idol.

Temple and Pilgrimage: The main Parshwanath temple at Girnar was built centuries ago and has been renovated many times by Jain devotees and rulers. Pilgrims climb thousands of steps to reach the temple, seeking darshan of the miraculous idol and spiritual upliftment. The idol is not only a focus for worship but also a reminder of the ideals of compassion, non-violence, and spiritual triumph that Parshwanath Bhagwan exemplified.

In summary, the Murti of Parshwanath Bhagwan at Girnar is revered as the site of his liberation and is depicted with a seven-hooded serpent canopy, commemorating the legendary protection given to him by Dharnendra, and is a central object of devotion and pilgrimage in Jainism.