This guide is designed to help you explore the profound concept of the Panch Parameshthi (the five supreme beings) in Jainism. Start by exploring the mind map below to see how they are all connected. Click on any tab to dive deeper into each concept.
Interactive Mind Map: The Panch Parameshthi
Panch Parameshthi [-]
Arihant
Siddha
Āchārya
Upādhyāy
Sādhu/Sādhvi
Namaskär Mantra: The Great Prayer
This is the most revered prayer in Jainism. It's not a request, but a gesture of deep respect to the virtues of the five supreme beings. Click a card to flip it!
Interactive Mantra Flashcards
The Power of the Mantra
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Eradicates Sins
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Most Auspicious
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Positive Vibrations
The 108 Attributes
A Jain rosary has 108 beads, signifying the attributes of the Panch Parameshthi.
Parameshthi
Attributes
Arihant
12
Siddha
8
Āchārya
36
Upādhyāy
25
Sādhu/Sādhvi
27
Total
108
Arihant - The Enlightened Beings
An Arihant is a 'destroyer of inner enemies'. By destroying the four defiling (Ghati) karmas, they attain perfect knowledge (Keval-jnān).
Journey to Arihant
Soul with 8 Karmas
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Destroys 4 Ghāti Karmas
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Attains 4 Infinite Qualities
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Becomes an Arihant
Siddha - The Liberated Souls
Siddhas are pure, liberated souls who have ended the cycle of birth and death forever. They reside in Siddha-kshetra, in a state of eternal bliss.
The Final Step: From Arihant to Siddha
Arihant (with 4 Aghāti Karmas)
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Sheds remaining 4 Aghāti Karmas
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Becomes a Siddha
The 8 Attributes of a Siddha
Āchārya - The Spiritual Leaders
Āchāryas are the heads of the Jain congregation (Sangh). They guide the entire community on the path of liberation and possess 36 special attributes.
Upādhyāy - The Scholarly Teachers
Upādhyāys are learned ascetics who have mastered the Jain scriptures (Āgams). Their role is to teach these scriptures. They possess 25 attributes.