Answer

No. In Jain tradition, Nakoda Bhairav is not Shiva.

Nakoda Bhairav is revered as a guardian deity / protective yaksha-like deity associated with the famous Jain tirtha Nakoda Ji in Rajasthan. He is especially worshipped by many Jains as a kshetrapal, meaning a protector of the sacred place.

Explanation

In Jain Dharma:

• Tirthankars are the supreme spiritual ideals who have attained omniscience and liberation.
• Devas and protective deities, such as Bhairav, Padmavati, Ambika, Ghantakarna Mahavir, etc., may be revered for protection and worldly assistance.
• However, they are not equal to Tirthankars and are not worshipped as creators or supreme gods.

The name “Bhairav” is also found in Hindu tradition, where Bhairava is associated with Shiva. But Nakoda Bhairav in Jain worship is understood within the Jain religious framework, not as Shiva.

Spiritual Understanding

Jain Dharma does not accept a creator God. The highest worship is directed toward the Arihants, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Sadhus, as expressed in the Namokar Mantra.

Protective deities may be respected, but the ultimate goal remains:

• right faith,
• right knowledge,
• right conduct,
• freedom from karma,
• and moksha.

Takeaway

Nakoda Bhairav is not Shiva. He is honored in Jain tradition as a protective deity connected with Nakoda Jain Tirth, while the supreme spiritual focus in Jain Dharma remains on the liberated souls and the path shown by the Tirthankars.