In Jainism, the first and foremost spiritual teacher is Lord Rishabhanatha (also known as Adinatha), who is considered the first Tirthankara of the present time cycle. However, when referring specifically to the term "Acharya," which denotes the head of the monastic order or the chief of monks after the time of the Tirthankaras, Jain tradition holds that Acharya Sudharma Swami was the first Acharya after Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, attained liberation.

Sudharma Swami was one of the chief disciples of Lord Mahavira and led the Jain Sangha (community of monks and nuns) after Mahavira's nirvana. Therefore, in the context of the Jain monastic lineage, Acharya Sudharma Swami is regarded as the first Acharya.

To summarize:

• First Tirthankara (spiritual teacher): Lord Rishabhanatha (Adinatha)
• First Acharya of the Jain Sangha (after Mahavira): Sudharma Swami