Mahavira as a Tirthankara Kevalin (A Chronology)

Summary

Summary of Lord Mahavira’s Life (Chronology) : • 13th Year (approx. 557-56 BCE): Mahavira attained Kevala Jnana (perfect knowledge) at the age of 30 in the city of Madhyma Pava. This was the beginning of his spiritual teachings and the formation of his fourfold order of monks, nuns, and lay followers. • 14th Year (approx. 499-498 BCE): Mahavira spent time in Videha, where he initiated prominent figures like Jamali and Brahmin Risabhadatta into the order. He also spent monsoons in Vaisali. • 15th Year (approx. 498-97 BCE): Mahavira visited Kausambi and other cities, converting many to his order, including notable figures like the noblewoman Jayanti. He spent monsoon months in Videha and Sravasti. • 16th Year (approx. 497-96 BCE): At Rajagrha, he gave an important discourse on the concept of Time (Kala) and initiated many, including Dhanya and Salibhadra. • 17th Year (approx. 496-95 BCE): Mahavira met the ruler King Udayana of Sindhu Sauvira and fulfilled his wish to meet the Lord. He continued his travels, initiating new followers. • 19th Year (approx. 494-93 BCE): Mahavira continued to spread his teachings across various regions, including Rajagrha, where King Srenika supported him by declaring that anyone seeking initiation would be cared for by the king. • 20th Year (approx. 493-92 BCE): Mahavira visited Kausambi and initiated several royals, including Queen-mother Mrigavati. His teachings were well received by the common people and the nobility alike. • 23rd Year (approx. 490-89 BCE): Mahavira addressed religious disputes between his followers and those of other sects, most notably with Skandaka, a mendicant scholar. After their discussions, Skandaka joined Mahavira's order. • 28th Year (approx. 485-84 BCE): Mahavira had discussions about religious practices with followers of other traditions, such as Kesi Kumara. These exchanges deepened the understanding of his five-principled path. • 33rd Year (approx. 480-79 BCE): During this time, Mahavira spent his time in Campa and later at Rajagrha, where he engaged in deep discussions with followers of various religious orders, continuing to spread his message. • 41st Year (approx. 472-71 BCE): Mahavira's last year of active teachings. In his final discourse, he imparted profound knowledge to his followers, and after this, he passed away, attaining Nirvana on the dawn of Kartika new moon day. • Death & Legacy: Mahavira’s death marked the end of his earthly journey, but his teachings continued to influence many, as the princes and disciples revered his wisdom. His final congregation was attended by prominent figures like Licchavis, Mallas, and Ganarajas. This summary captures the core teachings and travels of Lord Mahavira as recorded in the document, focusing on significant events, key conversions, and his ultimate attainment of Nirvana. The document spans his chronological journey in spreading Jain philosophy and establishing the monastic order. The exact times for each year are referenced using a pre-Vikrama system (based around 500 BCE), reflecting a traditional method of dating events.