According to Jainism, Jain Dharma (also called Jainism) is without a beginning (anadi) and without an end (anant). Jains believe that their dharma is eternal and not founded by any single person or at any specific time. Jain scriptures state that the teachings of Jainism are revealed in every time cycle by Tirthankaras—spiritually perfected beings who rediscover and teach the eternal truth.

In each half of the cosmic time cycle (Avasarpini and Utsarpini), twenty-four Tirthankaras appear to re-establish the principles of Jain Dharma, which may have been forgotten or lost over time. The most recent Tirthankara of the current cycle is Lord Mahavira (599–527 BCE), but he is considered a reviver rather than the founder of Jainism.

Thus, Jain Dharma was not "born" in the sense of having a historical origin; instead, it is considered Sanatan (eternal), always present, revealed repeatedly by Tirthankaras for the benefit of all living beings.