Tirthankar Rishabhdev—also known as Adinath Bhagwan—is revered as the founder of Jainism’s spiritual path. Born in an age of simplicity, he guided humanity toward civilization while showing the way to ultimate liberation (Moksha). His personal journey into meditation was not about escaping life but about realizing the eternal truth of the soul (Atma).
The meditation practices inspired by Rishabhdev are holistic—they encompass body, mind, and soul. They help cultivate inner stillness, dissolve karmic bondage, and awaken compassion for all living beings.
🪷 1. Samayik — Living in Equanimity
Meaning: Samayik is the art of entering a balanced mental state, free from likes and dislikes.
Practice:
- Sit in a calm, upright position.
- Close the eyes and focus on the present moment.
- Let thoughts pass without attachment or judgment.
Benefits: - Reduces mental turbulence.
- Increases patience and tolerance.
- Creates a foundation for deeper meditation.
Rishabhdev’s Teaching:
True peace arises when the soul is unaffected by external conditions—whether joy or sorrow, gain or loss.
🪶 2. Kayotsarga — Releasing the Body
Meaning: Kayotsarga literally means “abandonment of the body.”
Practice:
- Stand or sit perfectly still.
- Withdraw attention from the body and focus on the soul’s pure nature.
- Remain in this state for a set period, letting go of physical awareness.
Benefits: - Relieves stress and tension.
- Strengthens detachment from material desires.
- Brings awareness to the eternal self.
Rishabhdev’s Teaching:
The body is temporary, but the soul is eternal. Meditation is about knowing the soul, not clinging to the body.
📜 3. Pratikraman — Self-Reflection and Forgiveness
Meaning: Pratikraman means “turning back”—returning to a state of purity by reflecting on past actions.
Practice:
- Sit quietly and recall the day’s actions.
- Identify moments where harm may have been caused—intentionally or unintentionally.
- Mentally ask for forgiveness from all beings.
Benefits: - Purifies thoughts and intentions.
- Removes guilt and mental heaviness.
- Strengthens the vow of Ahimsa (non-violence).
Rishabhdev’s Teaching:
A soul that forgives and seeks forgiveness moves closer to liberation.
🔱 4. Mantra Meditation — Chanting for Purification
Meaning: The sacred Namokar Mantra is central in Jain meditation.
Practice:
- Sit comfortably.
- Chant the Namokar Mantra slowly and mindfully.
- Focus on its sound vibrations and the virtues of the beings it salutes.
Benefits: - Cleanses the mind of negative impressions.
- Connects the practitioner with the highest spiritual ideals.
- Generates deep inner peace.
Rishabhdev’s Teaching:
Sacred sound aligns the mind with the purest intentions and dissolves karmic impurities.
🌸 Integrating Rishabhdev’s Meditation into Daily Life
Rishabhdev’s path was not limited to secluded meditation; he taught that mindfulness should extend to every action—eating, speaking, walking, and working. Even in modern times, his meditation practices can be integrated into daily routines:
- Begin the day with Samayik to set a calm tone.
- Take short Kayotsarga breaks to refresh the mind.
- End the day with Pratikraman to clear mental clutter.
- Use mantra chanting to center the mind during stress.
🛕 Conclusion
Meditation, as practiced and taught by Tirthankar Rishabhdev, is a journey toward self-realization and ultimate freedom. His techniques encourage us to rise above the noise of life, connect with the soul, and live with compassion for all beings.
By adopting these practices, we not only honor the first Tirthankar but also take steps toward the same spiritual goal—Moksha, the liberation of the soul.
