Answer

Jainism has no single “starting date” in the ordinary historical sense. According to Jain tradition, Jain Dharma is eternal and is re-established in every time cycle by the Tirthankars.

In the present time cycle, Jain tradition traces Jain Dharma through 24 Tirthankars, beginning with Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar, and culminating with Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankar.

Explanation

From the Jain point of view:

• Jain Dharma is anadi — beginningless and eternal.
• It is not considered founded by one person at one point in time.
• The Tirthankars do not “create” Jainism; they rediscover, teach, and establish the path of liberation.

Historically, Lord Mahavir lived in ancient India and gave Jain Dharma a clearly organized form for the present age. Because of this, many people associate Jainism historically with Lord Mahavir. But Jain tradition recognizes Lord Rishabhdev as the first Tirthankar of this time cycle.

Spiritual Understanding

Jainism teaches the timeless path of:

• Ahimsa — non-violence
• Satya — truthfulness
• Aparigraha — non-attachment
• Self-discipline
• Liberation of the soul from karma

These principles are considered eternal truths, not inventions of a particular era.

Takeaway

Jainism did not “start” like a new religion founded at one date. In Jain tradition, it is eternal, and in our present era it was taught by the 24 Tirthankars, especially Lord Rishabhdev and Lord Mahavir.