In Jain tradition, a Gandhar is a direct disciple of a Tirthankara who receives spiritual teachings and spreads them to the world. Understanding the number of Gandhars associated with a Tirthankara gives insight into the structure of early Jain teachings. Lord Parshwanath, also known as Parasnath, is the twenty third Tirthankara in Jainism and a key figure in shaping its ethical and spiritual foundation. Many devotees frequently ask how many Gandhars he had, who they were, and what role they played in preserving his teachings.
This article explains the concept of Gandhars, their responsibilities, and the complete details of the Gandhars associated with Lord Parshwanath according to Jain scriptures.
Who Are Gandhars in Jainism
Gandhars are the earliest and most trusted disciples of a Tirthankara. Their role includes learning spiritual knowledge directly from the enlightened teacher, practicing the teachings, and helping spread the message to followers.
Gandhars also document sermons, preserve spiritual guidelines, and guide large groups of monks. They form the foundation of the fourfold Jain community consisting of monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen.
Because Tirthankaras possess infinite knowledge, Gandhars are essential in communicating this knowledge to the rest of the world in an understandable way.
Role and Responsibilities of Gandhars
- The responsibilities of Gandhars include
- Listening to and recording the teachings of the Tirthankara
- Explaining concepts to disciples
- Creating structure within the monastic community
- Maintaining discipline among monks
- Spreading spiritual principles across regions
Gandhars are considered spiritually advanced and respected for their deep wisdom and direct connection to the teachings of the Tirthankara.
Number of Gandhars of Lord Parshwanath
According to Jain scriptures, Lord Parshwanath had ten Gandhars. These disciples were responsible for carrying forward his teachings and organizing the early Jain community. Each Gandhar had a significant role in understanding and explaining the deep spiritual insights delivered by Lord Parshwanath.
Names of the Ten Gandhars
The ten Gandhars of Lord Parshwanath included
- Arya Anga
- Arya Vanga
- Arya Soma
- Arya Haridasa
- Arya Upta
- Arya Mahapati
- Arya Vasunandi
- Arya Balabha
- Arya Prabhava
- Arya Subhadra
These Gandhars formed the core group of disciples who received teachings directly from Lord Parshwanath and were entrusted with establishing the foundation of the Jain sangha of that time.
Life and Qualities of the Gandhars
Each Gandhar was known for specific qualities such as deep concentration, spiritual discipline, humility, and dedication to the path of liberation. They were selected based on their ability to understand the profound teachings of the Tirthankara and their capability to guide other monks.
Gandhars lived simple lives, following strict monastic codes. Their dedication ensured that the teachings of Parshwanath remained pure, unaltered, and accessible to future generations.
Why Lord Parshwanath Had Ten Gandhars
The number of Gandhars for each Tirthankara varies depending on the spiritual need and community structure of the time. During Parshwanath’s era, the Jain community was expanding rapidly, and large numbers of followers began adopting the fourfold vows taught by him.
To manage this growing community and maintain discipline among monks and householders, a strong group of Gandhars was needed. The ten Gandhars were capable of guiding different groups and helping spread the teachings across different regions.
Teachings Understood and Spread by the Gandhars
The Gandhars of Lord Parshwanath were known for spreading his four core vows
- Nonviolence
- Truth
- Nonstealing
- Nonpossession
These teachings formed the foundation of ethical living in early Jain tradition. The Gandhars also promoted meditation, compassion, and inner discipline as essential parts of the spiritual path.
Their efforts helped preserve the teachings in an organized manner that contributed to the future development of Jain practices followed during the time of Mahavira.
Structure of the Sangha Under Gandhars
Under the guidance of the Gandhars, the Jain community evolved into an organized Sangha. This Sangha consisted of monks, nuns, male householders, and female householders. The Gandhars provided spiritual guidance, settled doubts, assigned responsibilities, and ensured that the Sangha followed the ethical guidelines given by Lord Parshwanath.
Their leadership helped maintain unity, discipline, and purity in the community.
Historical Importance of Gandhars of Parshwanath
The Gandhars played an essential role in maintaining continuity in Jain teachings. Because Tirthankaras eventually enter nirvana, Gandhars ensure that the teachings remain alive through oral tradition and practice.
The Gandhars of Lord Parshwanath maintained strong spiritual discipline and contributed significantly to the preservation of the early Jain doctrine. Their work influenced the Jain communities that later flourished during the time of Mahavira.
Legacy and Influence
The influence of the ten Gandhars continues even today. Their dedication created the foundation for centuries of Jain teaching, literature, and monastic tradition. Many modern Jain practices have roots in the guidance offered by these early disciples.
The strong ethical base formed by the Gandhars helped Jainism develop into one of the most disciplined and peaceful religions in the world.
Why Devotees Remember the Gandhars
Devotees honor the Gandhars because they made it possible for future generations to understand the teachings of Parshwanath. They were the bridge between the infinite knowledge of the Tirthankara and the spiritual understanding of ordinary people.
Remembering the Gandhars is a way of acknowledging the continuity of knowledge and the devotion required to preserve spiritual truth.
Final Thoughts
Lord Parshwanath had ten Gandhars who played a crucial role in spreading his message of nonviolence, truth, and purity. Their deep wisdom, disciplined lifestyle, and commitment ensured that the spiritual essence of Parshwanath’s teachings reached countless followers. Understanding their contribution helps devotees appreciate the historical and spiritual foundation of Jainism.