Answer

Jainism was not founded by one single person. According to Jain tradition, Jain Dharma is eternal and has been taught again and again by the Tirthankars.

In the present time cycle, the first Tirthankar was Bhagwan Rishabhdev (Adinath), who is regarded as the first great teacher of Jain Dharma in this era.

The 24th and last Tirthankar of the present era was Bhagwan Mahavir, who revived and strongly taught Jain Dharma about 2,600 years ago.

Explanation

Many people think Bhagwan Mahavir “founded” Jainism, but Jain tradition explains that:

• Jain Dharma is beginningless and eternal.
• Bhagwan Rishabhdev was the first Tirthankar of this time cycle.
• Bhagwan Parshvanath was the 23rd Tirthankar.
• Bhagwan Mahavir was the 24th Tirthankar and gave Jain Dharma a strong organized form in historical times.

Takeaway

So, in Jain understanding, Jainism was not originated by Mahavir. It is an eternal Dharma, revealed in this age by the Tirthankars, beginning with Bhagwan Rishabhdev and most recently taught by Bhagwan Mahavir.