To which Tirthankar is the first temple of Dilwara dedicated?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 3:
The correct answer is Aadinath (also known as Rishabhanatha), who is universally revered as the first Tirthankar in Jain tradition. The oldest and first temple constructed in the magnificent Dilwara complex is the **Vimal Vasahi Temple**, which is dedicated explicitly to Lord Adinath. This temple was commissioned in 1031 CE by Vimal Shah, a minister of the Chaulukya king, Bhima I. Its foundation marks the beginning of the complex and establishes its dedication to the primordial Tirthankar, an early and celebrated masterpiece of the Maru-Gurjara architectural style in pristine white marble.

The incorrect option is 1:
Neminatha is the 22nd Tirthankara. He is indeed honored within the Dilwara complex, being the principal deity of the **Luna Vasahi Temple**. However, this temple is chronologically the second major shrine, having been built in 1230 CE by the brothers Vastupal and Tejpal, nearly two centuries after the Vimal Vasahi Temple. Therefore, while significant, the Luna Vasahi Temple is not the original or "first temple" of the complex.

The incorrect option is 2:
Parshvanatha is the 23rd Tirthankara. He is the main deity of the **Parshvanatha Temple** (also called Khartar Vasahi Temple) within the complex. This temple was one of the later additions, constructed between 1458 and 1459 CE. It is notable for being the tallest structure in the group. Its much later construction date and dedication to a different Tirthankar disqualify it from being the first temple.

The incorrect option is 4:
Sambhavanatha is the 3rd Tirthankara. Although he is an important figure in Jainism, there is no specific, main temple dedicated to him among the core five temples of the Dilwara complex (Vimal Vasahi, Luna Vasahi, Pittalhar, Parshvanatha, and Mahavir Swami). The question asks for the dedication of the *first* temple, which is historically and factually the Vimal Vasahi Temple to Lord Adinath.