Tirthankarat

Tirthankaras are spiritual teachers in Jainism who have attained liberation and can help others cross over the ocean of suffering (samsara). The word "Tirthankara" literally means "ford-maker" or "fender" in Sanskrit. Jain tradition believes that there are infinite Tirthankaras, but the current cosmic cycle has twenty-four Tirthankaras in the current era. These figures are not considered gods or creators but rather exemplars of perfect conduct and spiritual wisdom. Each Tirthankara is believed to have lived a life of extreme austerity and renunciation, eventually achieving omniscience and eternal bliss. They then return to the world to preach the Jain philosophy of ahimsa (non-violence), aparigraha (non-possession), and anekantavada (non-absolutism). The first Tirthankara of this era was Rishabhanatha, also known as Adinatha. The most recent and most widely revered Tirthankara is Mahavira, who is often considered the founder of Jainism in its present form, though Jains believe his teachings are eternal. The twenty-third Tirthankara, Parshvanatha, is also a significant figure. The lives and teachings of the Tirthankaras form the core of Jain scripture and practice, providing a path for spiritual development and liberation for their followers.