Answer

An Arhat or Arhant in Jainism is a soul that has completely destroyed the inner enemies of anger, pride, deceit, greed, and all karmic bondage, and has attained supreme spiritual knowledge. A Tirthankara is also an Arhat, but not every Arhat is a Tirthankara.

Explanation

In Jain Dharma, the word Arhat means a highly revered, spiritually perfected being who has reached the highest state of purity while still living in the body.

An Arhat:

• has destroyed all deluding karma
• has achieved Keval Gyan (absolute knowledge)
• is free from attachment and aversion
• is worthy of worship and reverence
• teaches the path of liberation to others

Spiritual Understanding

The Arhat is an ideal of complete victory over the self. He or she shows that liberation is possible through:

• right faith
• right knowledge
• right conduct
• deep non-violence
• detachment from worldly bondage

In Jain tradition, the Arhat is honored because such a soul has become spiritually perfect and guides others toward moksha.

Takeaway

An Arhat is a liberated-enlightened soul in the living state, completely free from inner passions and fully awakened in Jain Dharma.