How old is jain dharm

According to Jain tradition, Jain Dharma (also known as Jainism) is eternal (anadi-anant), meaning it has no beginning or end. Jains believe that their teachings have always existed in the universe and are periodically re-discovered and taught by Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers).

Historically, scholars trace the origins of Jainism as an organized religion to at least the 6th century BCE, with the life of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara. However, Jain scriptures assert that Mahavira was preceded by 23 other Tirthankaras, and the first Tirthankara, Rishabhanatha, lived countless ages ago.

Therefore, from the Jain perspective, Jain Dharma is timeless and eternal, though its most recent historical phase began around 2,500 years ago with Lord Mahavira.