Tirthankaras are the spiritual teachers who, in Jainism, show the way to cross the endless ocean of worldly life (saṃsāra) and attain liberation (moksha).

Key points:

• There are 24 Tirthankaras in a cosmic cycle. Each one reveals the path to right conduct, knowledge, and spiritual progress.
• They have conquered inner passions and worldly bonds, attained kevala jñāna (perfect enlightenment), and then teach others how to live righteously.
• After a Tirthankara’s nirvāṇa (passing beyond the cycle of birth and death), a new ford (tirth) is established for future generations to follow.

About traditions:

• The two main Jain traditions, Digambara and Śvetāmbara, share the core idea of 24 Tirthankaras, but there are differences in some details, including how they present certain Tirthankaras and related practice. Both traditions hold Mahavira as the 24th Tirthankara, though they may differ in minor ceremonial or textual aspects.

In short: Tirthankaras are the great teachers who open the door to spiritual awakening, guiding all beings toward liberation.