Answer

In Jain Dharma, we know the names of the next 24 Tirthankaras because they are described in accepted Jain tradition and Jain scriptures that explain the time-cycle structure of the universe.

According to Jain cosmology, time moves in endless cycles of:

• Utsarpiṇī – ascending time-cycle
• Avasarpiṇī – descending time-cycle

In each half-cycle, 24 Tirthankaras appear in Bharat Kshetra. The 24 Tirthankaras of the present Avasarpiṇī are known, and Jain tradition also preserves the names of the future 24 Tirthankaras of the next Utsarpiṇī.

Explanation

We do not know the future Tirthankaras by prediction, astrology, or personal imagination. We know them through Jain Āgamic and traditional knowledge passed down by the enlightened tradition.

A Tirthankara is not chosen by any god or authority. A soul becomes a Tirthankara because it has earned the special karma called:

Tirthankara-nāma-karma

This karma is bound through extremely pure spiritual qualities such as:

• Deep compassion for all living beings
• Strong right faith
• Purity of conduct
• Service to the Jain Sangh
• Spreading Dharma without ego
• Helping others move toward liberation

Because the Jain enlightened tradition explains the working of time, karma, and future spiritual events, the names of future Tirthankaras are preserved in Jain tradition.

Spiritual Understanding

The teaching of future Tirthankaras reminds us that Jain Dharma is eternal. Tirthankaras appear again and again in different time-cycles to re-establish the path of liberation.

The important lesson is not only to know their names, but to understand that every soul has the potential for liberation. Through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct, the soul can rise spiritually.

Takeaway

We know the next 24 Tirthankaras through accepted Jain tradition, not through guessing. Their coming shows the eternal nature of Jain Dharma and the continuous presence of the path to moksha.