ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Pañca-Parameṣṭhi

Pañca-parameṣṭhi is a really big and important word in the Jain religion. It means the five most important and powerful beings in the whole Jain universe. These beings are like superheroes and have special powers that help them protect and guide all the living things in the world.

The first pañca-parameṣṭhi is Lord Ṛṣabha. He was the first Jain spiritual leader and showed people how to live a good and peaceful life. He was very strong and kind, and he lived a very long time.

The second pañca-parameṣṭhi is Lord Ajitnātha. He was also very strong and powerful, and he worked hard to help people find peace and happiness. He showed people that they could be strong and kind at the same time.

The third pañca-parameṣṭhi is Lord Sambhavanātha. He was a very wise and knowledgeable leader, and he taught people important lessons about how to live a good life. He was very patient and kind to everyone he met.

The fourth pañca-parameṣṭhi is Lord Abhinandananātha. He was very kind and compassionate, and he worked hard to help people who were suffering. He showed people that it was important to be kind and helpful to others, no matter what.

And the fifth and final pañca-parameṣṭhi is Lord Mahāvīra. He was a very important Jain spiritual leader who taught people about Jainism and how to live a good life. He was very peaceful and kind, and he showed people how to live in harmony with all living things.

So, pañca-parameṣṭhi is a really important idea in Jainism because it reminds people to be kind, strong, and wise, and to always try to do what's best for others.