Upasak shravak of mahavir swami
In Jainism, during the time of Bhagwan Mahavir Swami (the 24th Tirthankara), there were many devoted lay followers known as shravaks (male lay devotees) and shravikas (female lay devotees). The term upasak refers to a householder who follows the Jain way of life but is not a monk or nun.
Some of the most prominent Upasak Shravaks of Mahavir Swami’s time are known as the Eleven Ganadharas (chief disciples), but more specifically, the canonical texts mention eleven principal Shravaks (Upasak Shravaks) who are famous for their faith, devotion, and exemplary conduct as householders. These eleven Upasak Shravaks are:
- Ananda (or Anant)
- Chulika
- Kumara
- Sankha
- Somasarman
- Subahu
- Sudarsana
- Nanda
- Nandimitra
- Prabhava
- Shalibhadra
Among these, Shalibhadra is especially renowned for his immense wealth and generosity, and his story is often cited in Jain literature as an example of renunciation and charity.
The Upasak Shravaks are celebrated for following the Twelve Vows of a Shravak (Barah Vrata), which guide householders toward a life of non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possessiveness. They played a crucial role in supporting the Jain Sangha and preserving the teachings of Mahavir Swami.
References:
- Uttaradhyayana Sutra
- Jain Agamas (canonical scriptures)
- "Jainism: The World of Conquerors" by Natubhai Shah
If you need more details about any specific shravak or their stories, please let me know.