The Identity of Krishna in Jainism

Jainism provides a unique perspective on the identity of ancient figures like Krishna, advocating for a deeper understanding of his role and significance within the religion. Unlike the Hindu tradition, where Krishna is often seen as a divine incarnation, Jainism presents a different narrative, positioning him as a human with great virtues, born around 84,000 years ago in the town of Sauripur, to the royal family of Vasudeva of the Yadava clan.

Jain Beliefs and Krishna

According to Jainism, Krishna is recognized as a noble personality within the broader category of 120 Shalakapurusha, illustrious or worthy individuals. These 120 figures are divided into 63 categories, with Krishna being part of the 9 Narayana, a term that signifies a powerful being who has achieved this status through past good karma.

The Shalakapurusha category includes:

24 Tirthankaras (prophets who show the right path) 12 Chakravartins (emperors who rule over the entire world) 6 Balabhadras (gentle heroes) 9 Narayanas (warrior heroes) 9 Prati-narayanas (anti-heroes) 60 individuals who are yet to achieve Tirthankara status but will do so in future cosmic cycles

Lord Krishna is thus part of this lineage, being one of the 24 individuals who will become Tirthankaras in the next cosmic cycle. This concept is often referred to as his next birth or incarnation, but in Jain terminology, it is called his next bhava, paryaya, or state of soul.

Krishna in Jain Scriptures

In Jain scripts, Krishna is often discussed in a more reverent and philosophical manner, similar to his portrayal in Hindu tradition, but without the playful or mischievous elements. He is seen as a noble individual whose teachings and actions reflect ethical and moral conduct.

Samudravijaya, the father of the 22nd Jain Tirthankara Lord Neminatha (Arishtanemi), is believed to be Krishna's elder brother. This establishes a familial connection between Krishna and Neminatha, further highlighting the importance of Krishna within the historical and mythological context of Jainism.

Role of Krishna as a Narayana

According to the teachings of Jainism, Krishna is identified as one of the 9 Narayana, figures who possess 3 khandas (quarters) of the world—each quarter being a vast region. Narayana has the responsibility to destroy the evil powerful individuals known as Prati-narayana and must then face Hell due to accumulated karma. However, the cycle of rebirth does not end here. Krishna, upon his return from Hell, is destined to become a Tirthankara in the next cosmic cycle. This belief underscores the idea that redemption and spiritual transformation are achievable through the practice of good karma and self-effort.

In conclusion, the identity of Krishna in Jainism is deeply rooted in the concept of spiritual transformation and ethical conduct. Rather than being an incarnation of a divine being, he is seen as a noble individual who, through his actions and teachings, exemplifies the path to achieving Tirthankara status in the future. This perspective offers a nuanced understanding of ancient textile figures within the broader framework of Jain belief and practice.