Answer

A Tirthankar is a supreme enlightened soul in Jain Dharma who shows the path to liberation — moksha — to all living beings.

The word Tirthankar means “one who creates a tirth,” or a spiritual path/crossing, by which souls can cross the ocean of worldly existence and reach liberation.

Explanation

In Jainism, a Tirthankar is not a creator God. A Tirthankar is a soul who has completely destroyed inner enemies such as:

• Anger
• Pride
• Deceit
• Greed
• Attachment and hatred

After attaining Keval Gyan — perfect knowledge — a Tirthankar teaches the true path of:

• Right Faith — Samyak Darshan
• Right Knowledge — Samyak Gyan
• Right Conduct — Samyak Charitra

These are called the Three Jewels of Jain Dharma.

Spiritual Understanding

Tirthankars guide souls toward non-violence, self-control, truth, compassion, detachment, and liberation.

In the present time cycle, Jain tradition recognizes 24 Tirthankars. The first is Bhagwan Rishabhdev, and the twenty-fourth is Bhagwan Mahavir.

Takeaway

A Tirthankar is an enlightened spiritual teacher who has attained liberation and shows others the path to become free from karma and the cycle of birth and death.