Rishabhadeva’s Qualities

Chapter 4

Seeing His good qualities, Nabhi named Him Rishabha, ‘the best of human beings.’ Everyone appreciated His outstanding attributes, which increased with each passing day. Despite having great affection towards his son, Nabhi retired to Badarikasrama and absorbed himself in devotional service, while Rishabhadeva became an ideal student in the gurukula.

The Lord then entered household life and fathered one hundred sons with his wife, Jayanti. Ten sons became warriors (ksatriyas), of which the eldest was Bharata. Nine sons, the Nava Yogendras, became exalted devotees (maha-bhagavatas), and the rest became perfectly qualified priests (brahmanas). This was entirely possible since one’s occupation (varna) is determined by qualification, not birth.

Rishabhadeva lived as an ideal householder, ruled the state perfectly, and taught the populace by his own example. Once, whilst touring the kingdom, He imparted valuable wisdom to His sons, the next generation of leaders.