14 sapne (dreams)
Here are the 14 auspicious dreams (14 sapne) traditionally seen by the mother of a Tirthankar (e.g., Mata Trishalā, mother of Bhagwān Mahāvīr). In Śvetāmbara tradition they are fourteen; in Digambara tradition the list is sixteen (noted below).
Śvetāmbara: 14 dreams and their simple meanings
- Hāthī (Elephant): greatness, noble strength.
- Vṛṣabh/Bail (Bull): Dharma-strength; the child will be a great spiritual teacher.
- Siṃh (Lion): fearlessness and supreme leadership.
- Śrī/Lakṣmī Devī: auspiciousness and splendour of virtues.
- Phūl-mālā (Garland): fame and respect that spread like fragrance.
- Pūrṇimā Candra (Full Moon): peace and coolness to the world.
- Sūrya (Sun): removal of ignorance; rise of right knowledge.
- Dhvaja/Patākā (Flag): victory of Dharma and guidance to many.
- Pūrṇa-Kalaś (Full vase): fullness of virtues, purity, compassion.
- Kamal-sarovar (Lotus-lake): purity and detachment amidst the world.
- Kṣīr-sāgar/Mīlky Ocean: vastness of spiritual attainment.
- Deva-vimān (Celestial airplane/palace): honor by devas for the future teacher.
- Ratno kā ḍher (Heap of jewels): abundance of virtues and wisdom.
- Nirdhūm Agni (Smokeless fire): burning of karmas; pure, luminous tapas.
Digambara note (difference)
- Digambara tradition counts 16 dreams. Along with the above, it includes:
- In some Digambara lists, the “flag” appears only in Śvetāmbara, while “pair of fish” and the special “palace” make the total sixteen.
Spiritual essence
- These dreams announce the descent (garbha-kalyāṇak) of an exalted soul. They signify that the child will benefit countless beings through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct, ultimately leading many towards liberation.
For a simple illustrated list and meanings, see this resource from JainKnowledge: