Answer

Here are some good books to study the Jain values taught by the Tirthankars:

• Tattvārtha Sūtra — a very important Jain philosophical text that explains core Jain principles clearly.
• Ācārāṅga Sūtra — teaches the Jain discipline of non-violence, restraint, and spiritual conduct.
• Uttarādhyayana Sūtra — contains teachings on ethics, detachment, self-control, and the path of liberation.
• Ratnakaranda Śrāvakācāra — especially useful for understanding Jain values in daily life for householders.
• Samayasāra — a deep text on the soul, self-realization, and inner purity.
• Purushārthasiddhyupāya — explains right conduct, especially ahimsa and ethical living.
• Jainism: The Path of Ahimsa or similar beginner-level Jain introduction books by recognized Jain scholars — good for starting with simple explanations.

Explanation

If your goal is to understand the values taught by the Tirthankars, focus on these key Jain principles:

• Ahimsa — non-violence
• Satya — truthfulness
• Asteya — non-stealing
• Brahmacharya — self-restraint
• Aparigraha — non-possessiveness
• Anekantavada — respect for multiple viewpoints
• Forgiveness, compassion, and inner purity

For a beginner, the best order is:

1. Introductory Jain books
2. Ratnakaranda Śrāvakācāra
3. Uttarādhyayana Sūtra
4. Tattvārtha Sūtra
5. Ācārāṅga Sūtra
6. Samayasāra

Spiritual Understanding

The Tirthankars do not teach mere theory. They show the path of:

• purification of the soul
• reduction of attachment and hatred
• living with compassion
• discipline in thought, speech, and action
• progress toward moksha

So when you study these texts, do not read them only as philosophy. Read them as guidance for transforming life.

Takeaway

If you want one simple starting point, begin with:

• Ratnakaranda Śrāvakācāra
• Uttarādhyayana Sūtra
• Tattvārtha Sūtra

These will give you a strong foundation in the values taught by the Tirthankars.

If you want, I can also give you a beginner reading list in easy English or a list of JainKnowledge.com study topics related to this.