Rishabha
Rishabha is an ancient divine king and yogi who renounced worldly life to become a supreme ascetic. While traditionally known as the first Tirthankara in Jainism, some Hindu Puranas—like the Bhagavata and Skanda—also describe him as an avatar of Lord Shiva or Vishnu, emphasizing universal values of renunciation (Tyaga), truth, and dharma. He represents the yogic and ruler-as-sage ideal.
To establish the path of Dharma and spiritual renunciation among householders and kings. Rishabha teaches the balance between worldly responsibility and the ultimate renunciation of ego and materialism.
Appearance: A serene, radiant yogi with matted hair, bare upper body, seated in a meditative lotus posture. Often shown with a bull emblem or as an ascetic king with a peaceful expression.
Symbols
Weapons
Mount
Nandi or Bull (symbolic)
Associated Elements
Rishabha represents the pinnacle of balanced life — a ruler who understands both kingship and renunciation. He shows that detachment, when rooted in wisdom and dharma, leads to ultimate freedom. Whether as a Shiva avatar or Vishnu avatar, he is the embodiment of Jnana (wisdom), Vairagya (dispassion), and Dharma (righteousness).
- Detachment is the ultimate freedom, even for kings.
- Righteous action and yogic renunciation can go hand-in-hand.
- Renunciation is not escapism — it is the highest expression of inner strength.
- True rulers must be yogis at heart.
Lord Shiva
In Shaiva texts, Rishabha is seen as a yogic manifestation of Shiva’s ascetic essence.
Lord Vishnu
In the Bhagavata Purana, he is referred to as a Vishnu avatar who taught Dharma through renunciation.
Bharata Chakravarti
Rishabha’s son, who became the first emperor of India; the land ‘Bharat’ is named after him.
Rishabhdev Temple (Kesariaji)
Rajasthan, India
An important Jain and Shaiva pilgrimage site where Rishabha is revered in multiple traditions.
Rishabhnath Mandir (Ayodhya)
Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
Associated with Rishabha’s early life and considered sacred in Jain and some Shaiva traditions.