Words may be few, but their meaning can reflect the infinite truth of the universe. A small visual can carry deep wisdom and invoke profound emotions. This is the beauty of spiritual expression — like an ocean in a drop.
In this Episode 57 of “Arya Dharma”, we explore the ancient beginnings of civilization and the divine touch of Lord Rishabhdev — the first Tirthankara, revered not only in Jain scriptures but also honored in the Vedas.
Who is Arya?
“Aarta duriyati iti Arya” – the one who stays away from sin, avoids violence, is filled with compassion, and upholds humanity is known as Arya. Discipline and cultured living are the signs of Arya Dharma.
The Origin of Civilization
The scriptures declare that Rishabhdev was the first to bring wisdom and knowledge to this Earth. He was not just a king — the first Chakravarti (universal monarch) — but also the first Sadhu (monk) and Tirthankara of the present time cycle. It is said in Vedic literature:
“Prithvinatham aadimam nishparigraham” — the original spiritual master of this Earth was Rishabhdev.
Before Jain Dharma, before even social structure existed, the world was innocent — humans were born in pairs as siblings and lived without crime, passion, or desire. Only near the end of life did they attain awareness of being human. This was the era of innocence — nature provided everything without effort.
But as the Earth transitioned from the Akarmabhumi (a land where no effort is required) to Karmabhumi (a land where effort is essential), people had to learn to live, work, and survive. And so came Rishabhdev — the pioneer of civilization.
Rishabhdev’s Teachings and Contributions
- Introduced agriculture, fire usage, and arts
- Developed structure for society: ethics, education, culture
- Initiated the concept of marriage and family life
- Divided human life into 16 sanskars (ritual stages from birth to death)
- Brought literacy — taught how to read, write, and pronounce letters
- Educated both men and women through his children: sons Bharata and Bahubali, and daughters Brahmi and Sundari
- Divided society into functional and cultural responsibilities
- Established ethical governance, punishment systems, arts, sciences, and moral development
Rishabhdev didn’t just teach how to live, but how to live righteously — with body, mind, family, and society in harmony. He was a king, a teacher, a sage, and ultimately, a Kevaljnani (one with absolute knowledge). His coronation itself was considered a divine event — a Kalyaanak (auspicious occasion) — a rarity even among Tirthankaras.
He taught people how to produce food, how to construct shelter, how to wear clothes — and ultimately, how to live with dignity and self-control. Where earlier people were like nature-driven beings, Rishabhdev showed how to be cultured and civilized — this was the foundation of Arya Dharma.
The Transition to Jain Dharma
Only after society had matured, and human emotions and intellect could be guided, did Rishabhdev renounce his kingdom, attain Kevaljnan, and formally establish Jain Dharma. But the seeds of spiritual life — discipline, compassion, and ethics — had already been sown through Arya Dharma.
Conclusion
Lord Rishabhdev was not only the first Tirthankara but the father of civilization itself. He structured human life through Arya Dharma — teaching how to live with discipline, culture, and harmony with others. Later, he gifted the world Jain Dharma, a path of liberation.
In our lives today, we must follow two parallel paths:
- Spiritual life — embracing detachment and the path of Jain Dharma.
- Social life — living with family and society as guided by the principles of Arya Dharma.
Both are necessary for a balanced, meaningful existence. Rishabhdev’s legacy is the bridge between civilization and liberation — a guide for all ages.