Dear Reader,
Jai Jinendra!

In the sacred salutation of the Namokara Mantra, Jains bow to five supreme beings known as the Pancha-Parameshthi. The first two - Arihanta and Siddha - are the liberated beings called the Jinas, while the latter three - Acharya, Upadhyaya, and Sadhu - are ascetics who uphold and transmit the literary tradition.

Among them, the Upadhyaya Parameshthi holds a distinctive role as the custodian of scriptural knowledge. A monk-scholar and teacher, according to the Dravyasamgraha, he has mastered the Angas and Purvas, and guides fellow ascetics in their study of Jain texts. His presence within the monastic order ensures that the teachings of the tirthamkaras are preserved, interpreted, and shared with clarity and compassion.

At the International School for Jain Studies 'ISJS', the spirit of the Upadhyaya is honored through programs that foster deep learning and engagement with Jain principles. This newsletter features invitations to two such offerings: an online Winter School and an offline conference. We warmly welcome you to join us in the pursuit of Jain wisdom.

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