Answer

Jainism has been practiced since very ancient times. In Jain tradition, Jain Dharma is considered anādi — beginningless and eternal.

From a commonly accepted historical view, Jainism has been practiced for at least around 2,500 years in its clearly recorded form, especially from the time of Bhagwan Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankar.

Explanation

According to Jain tradition:

• Jain Dharma did not begin with Bhagwan Mahavir.
• Bhagwan Mahavir revived and taught the eternal Jain path in the present time cycle.
• Before him, Bhagwan Parshvanath, the 23rd Tirthankar, also taught Jain Dharma.
• The first Tirthankar of this time cycle is Bhagwan Rishabhdev, also called Adinath.

Historically, Bhagwan Mahavir lived around the 6th century BCE, so Jainism has a well-documented history of about 2,500 years.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, truth is not created by one person. The Tirthankars reveal the eternal path of right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct for the liberation of the soul.

Takeaway

Historically, Jainism is at least about 2,500 years old, but according to Jain belief, Jain Dharma is eternal and beginningless.