According to Jain tradition, Jainism is considered one of the oldest religions in the world. Jain teachings state that the principles of Jainism are eternal (Sanatan) and have always existed in the universe, periodically revealed by the Tirthankaras. Jains believe that their religion has no founder and predates recorded history, with Rishabhanatha (Adinath) recognized as the first Tirthankara of the current time cycle. Jain scriptures describe a continuous lineage of Tirthankaras, and thus, Jainism is regarded by its followers as the world's first and most ancient religion.