In Jainism, there is no single human “founder” of the religion.

• Jain Dharma is considered anādi–ananta – without beginning and without end.
• It is an eternal path of right faith, right knowledge and right conduct, rediscovered again and again by Tirthankars (Ford-makers).

In the present time-cycle:

• First Tirthankar: Shri Rishabhdev (Adinath) Bhagwan
• 24th (last) Tirthankar: Shri Mahavir Swami Bhagwan

Many people mistakenly say “Mahavir is the founder of Jainism”, but according to Jain belief, he is a Tirthankar who revived and re-taught the eternal Jain Dharma, not its creator or founder.