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Tell me about 24 tirthankars
In Jainism, the 24 Tirthankaras are revered spiritual teachers who have attained perfect knowledge (Kevala Jnana) and have shown the path to liberation (moksha). They are considered the supreme spiritual guides who establish the fourfold Jain Sangha: monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen.
The word "Tirthankara" means "Ford-maker"—someone who creates a passage across the ocean of worldly existence (samsara). Each Tirthankara revives Jain teachings (Dharma) in the world. The first Tirthankara is Rishabhanatha (Adinath), and the 24th and last Tirthankara of this era is Mahavira.
Here is the list of the 24 Tirthankaras:
- Rishabhanatha (Adinath)
- Ajitanatha
- Sambhavanatha
- Abhinandananatha
- Sumatinatha
- Padmaprabha
- Suparshvanatha
- Chandraprabha
- Pushpadanta (Suvidhinath)
- Shitalanatha
- Shreyansanatha
- Vasupujya
- Vimalanatha
- Anantanatha
- Dharmanatha
- Shantinatha
- Kunthunatha
- Aranatha
- Mallinatha
- Munisuvratanatha
- Naminatha
- Neminatha
- Parshvanatha
- Mahavira (Vardhamana)
Each Tirthankara is associated with specific symbols, emblems, and stories of spiritual conquest and compassion. Their teachings form the core of Jain philosophy, emphasizing ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (chastity), and aparigraha (non-possessiveness). Temples and images of the Tirthankaras are found throughout India and in Jain communities worldwide. They are honored during various Jain festivals, especially Paryushana and Mahavir Jayanti.
