Here are three major figures in Jainism, with very brief stories of who they were and what they did:

• Rishabhanatha (Adinath)

- Role: First Tirthankara in the current cosmic cycle. - Story (arath): According to Jain tradition, he taught the first code of conduct and established the basic principles of Jain life. He is said to have taught agriculture, crafts, law, and social order, and to have shown the path to spiritual liberation for all beings. Different Jain sects place him at the beginning of the lineage and emphasize his role as the original teacher whose teachings set the foundation for later Jain practice.

• Parsvanath

- Role: Twenty-third Tirthankara. - Story (arath): Parsvanath is remembered for attaining kevala jnana (omniscience) after a long period of ascetic practice. He is often depicted with a crown and hair ornaments because his renunciation and ascetic discipline inspired many, including his own son, to follow the Jain path. His life illustrates the deep commitment to non-violence, truth, and self-control that characterize Jain ethics.

• Mahavira (Vardhamana)

- Role: Twenty-fourth and last Tirthankara of the current cycle. - Story (arath): Mahavira is the most widely known Jain teacher in the modern era. He renounced the palace life, practiced long ascetic disciplines, attained kevala jnana, and then preached the path of right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct (the three jewels of Jainism). His teachings emphasize non-violence (ahimsa), truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possessiveness, guiding countless beings toward liberation (moksha).

Notes to keep in mind:

• In Jainism, there are 24 Tirthankaras, each having a specific time and teaching the path to liberation. The above three are among the most frequently discussed due to their foundational role (Adinath), influential renunciation (Parsva), and the most recent and widely taught era (Mahavira).
• There are minor differences in details between Digambar and Shwetambar traditions, especially in the narrations and emphases of each Tirthankara’s life. The core principles—ahimsa, ascetic discipline, and the path to liberation—remain the same across traditions.

If you’d like, I can give you concise stories from specific Jain scriptures or provide a short glossary of terms (kevala jnana, tirthankara, moksha, ahimsa) to help with deeper study.