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Murtis at the Jain Temple, Maple Grove, Minnesota
Mahavir Swami
Parshvanathji
Aadinathji
· Jain Tirthankars.
In Jain Religion there are 24 Tirthankars in this Era. According to Jain philosophy, all Tirthankars were born as human beings who attained a state of perfect enlightenment through meditation and self-realization.
The Murti (idol) represents the qualities of a Tirthankar but not a physical body. Hence the Murties of all Tirthankars are similar. Each Tirthankar has an unique emblem or symbol (Lanchhan) that distinguishes each Murti.
A Murti of a Jina sitting in lotus posture or standing straight illustrates a form of deepest meditation. The face and eyes shower us with love and compassion and inspire calmness within us. Darshan of Jina inspires a devotee to achieve the attributes of Jina to his/her soul.
Bhagwan Aadinathji or Rishabhadeva (on right) is the first Tirthankar with emblem of Bull. Murti is in Pravachan mode (Swetambar tradition).
Bhagwan Parshvanathji (Moolnayak - in center) is the Twenty third Tirthankar with emblem of Serpent. Murti is in Pravachan mode (Swetambar tradition).
Bhagwan Mahavir Swami (on left) is the Twenty-fourth and last Tirthankar with emblem of Lion. Murti is in meditative mode (Digambar tradition).
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