What titles are used to speak about a tirthankara? For example "bhagwan"
In Jainism, Tirthankaras are revered spiritual teachers and are addressed with great respect. Some common titles used for Tirthankaras include:
- Bhagwan (भगवान) – Meaning "Lord" or "Venerable One," this is the most common and respectful title.
- Arihant – Refers to a perfected soul who has conquered inner passions and attained kevala jnana (omniscience).
- Jina – Meaning "Conqueror," referring to one who has conquered inner enemies like attachment and aversion.
- Tirthankar – Literally "Ford-maker," indicating one who creates a spiritual path for others to cross the cycle of birth and death.
- Paramatma – "Supreme Soul," indicating their state of spiritual perfection.
- Vitrag – "One who is free from attachment and aversion."
- Mahavira – This is used specifically for the 24th Tirthankara but sometimes honorifically for others as well, meaning "Great Hero."
When addressing or referring to a Tirthankara, devotees often use these titles, sometimes in combination (e.g., "Bhagwan Mahavira," "Arihant Parshvanath," etc.), to show reverence and devotion.