Iast shravak of 5th ara
Answer
In Jain tradition, the last Śrāvaka of the 5th Ārā is commonly said to be Vimalavāhan Śrāvaka.
Explanation
According to Jain cosmology, we are currently living in the 5th Ārā, called Duṣamā Ārā — an era of spiritual decline.
Jain tradition describes that toward the end of this 5th Ārā:
- True Jain conduct will become extremely rare.
- The Jain fourfold Saṅgha will gradually disappear.
- The last Śrāvaka is remembered as Vimalavāhan.
Along with this traditional account, Jain texts also mention names of the last members of the Jain Saṅgha near the end of the 5th Ārā, such as the last monk, nun, layman, and laywoman.
Spiritual Understanding
This teaching reminds us that human life and access to Jain Dharma are very precious. Since we still have the opportunity to hear, understand, and practice Jain Dharma, we should use this life for:
- Samyag Darshan — right faith
- Ahimsa — non-violence
- Self-discipline
- Spiritual purification
Takeaway
The last Śrāvaka of the 5th Ārā is traditionally known as Vimalavāhan Śrāvaka. This belief inspires us to value Jain Dharma while it is still available to us.