Answer

Parshvanath Bhagwan, also called Parshva or Parshwanath, was the 23rd Tirthankar of the present time cycle in Jain Dharma.

He lived before Bhagwan Mahavir, who was the 24th Tirthankar.

Explanation

Parshvanath Bhagwan is one of the most widely worshipped Tirthankars in Jain tradition.

According to Jain tradition:

• He was born in Varanasi.
• His father was King Ashvasena.
• His mother was Queen Vama Devi.
• He renounced worldly life and attained Keval Gyan, perfect knowledge.
• He taught the path of liberation based on self-discipline, non-violence, truth, and detachment.

Parshvanath Bhagwan is often identified by the symbol of a serpent hood over his head. This is connected with the well-known Jain account of Dharanendra and Padmavati protecting him during meditation.

Spiritual Understanding

Parshvanath Bhagwan’s life teaches:

• Ahimsa — non-violence toward all living beings
• Tyag — renunciation of worldly attachment
• Tapasya — spiritual austerity
• Samata — equanimity in hardship

Takeaway

Parshvanath Bhagwan was the 23rd Tirthankar of Jain Dharma and a great spiritual teacher who showed the path of liberation through compassion, discipline, and detachment.