In Jainism, Upadhyay Parmeshthi (उपाध्याय परमेष्ठी) refers to one of the five supreme beings or venerable personalities known as the Panch Parmeshthi (पंच परमेष्ठी), who are regularly worshipped by Jains.

Upadhyay means a spiritual teacher or preceptor—specifically, one who teaches the scriptures to monks and nuns. The Upadhyay Parmeshthi occupies the fourth place in the hierarchy of Panch Parmeshthi, after Arihant, Siddha, and Acharya. The five are:

1. Arihant – Perfected souls who have attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) but are still embodied.
2. Siddha – Liberated souls who have destroyed all karmas and attained Moksha.
3. Acharya – Head of the Jain monastic order; supreme spiritual leader.
4. Upadhyay – Preceptor who teaches the sacred texts and Jain doctrines to ascetics.
5. Sadhu/Sadhvi – Jain monks and nuns who practice spiritual discipline.

Role of Upadhyay:

• They are responsible for imparting scriptural knowledge (Agamas) and guiding monks and nuns in their studies.
• They hold an esteemed position for their knowledge and dedication to teaching.
• In prayers and rituals, Jains often pay homage to Upadhyay Parmeshthi for their role in preserving and transmitting Jain knowledge.

Mantra Example: In the Navkar Mantra, the line “Namo Uvajjhayanam” means “I bow to the Upadhyays (preceptors).”

Thus, Upadhyay Parmeshthi represents the ideal Jain teacher who guides others on the path to spiritual progression.