This black
granite statue of Jina—Parshanatha standing is an extraordinary and imposing
work of art.
It shows
Parshanatha standing in the Kayotsarga posture, with his arms straight at his
sides, symbolizing ascetic endurance and detachment from the physical world.
The
iconography symbolizes protection, recalling the legend where Dharanendra
shielded the Jina during meditation from a storm caused by a demon.
A serene and imposing presence graces any space with this remarkable, large-scale sculpture. Carved from a single piece of black granite stone, this is not merely a statue, but a statement of peace, spiritual strength, and dedication to the principles of Jainism.
The Twenty-Third Tirthankara
This magnificent sculpture depicts Parshvanatha, the twenty-third Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) of Jainism. He is instantly recognizable by the five-headed serpent, or Naga, sheltering him. The Tirthankaras, revered as spiritual victors or "ford-makers," are enlightened beings who have conquered the cycle of birth and death and who teach others the path to liberation. Parshvanatha is considered one of the earliest Tirthankaras whose historicity is widely accepted, predating Mahavira, the last Tirthankara.Symbolism of the Naga
The Naga, with its five heads, is not just a decorative element, but an integral part of Parshvanatha's iconography. The serpent represents protection, but also alludes to a specific event in Parshvanatha's life. Legend tells of how Parshvanatha rescued a serpent from the sacrificial fire of a hermit named Kamath. This serpent was later reborn as Dharanendra, the serpent king, who shielded Parshvanatha from a storm sent by the vengeful Kamath, demonstrating the power of compassion and non-violence – key tenets of Jainism. The multiple heads represent the encompassing nature of this protection. The Naga also symbolizes detachment from worldly desires. Its unblinking gaze represents vigilance, and its venom is symbolic of the poisons of worldly attachments. The Naga, therefore, becomes a potent symbol of the path to enlightenment.Craftsmanship and Material
The use of black granite stone lends a sense of timelessness and permanence to the sculpture. Its dark hue absorbs and reflects light in subtle ways, enhancing the contours of the figure and the intricate detailing of the Naga's hoods. The smooth, polished finish of the stone speaks to the skill of the artisan, while its natural variations in tone add depth and character. Given the size of the sculpture (96.0 x 30.0 x 19.0 inches), it commands attention and becomes a focal point in any setting. Whether placed in a garden, a meditation space, or a grand foyer, this sculpture serves as a constant reminder of the Jain principles of ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (chastity), and aparigraha (non-attachment). It’s an investment in art, spirituality, and a tangible connection to an ancient and profound philosophical tradition.
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