Answer

Jain Dharma is considered an eternal Dharma in Jain tradition. It was not “created” at one point in time by one person.

According to Jain belief, Jain Dharma has been taught again and again by Tirthankars in every time cycle. In the present time cycle, the first Tirthankar was Bhagwan Rishabhdev, and the 24th Tirthankar was Bhagwan Mahavir.

Explanation

In Jain tradition:

• Jain Dharma is anadi — without a beginning.
• It teaches eternal truths such as ahimsa, karma, soul, self-control, and moksha.
• These truths are not considered invented; they are rediscovered and taught by Tirthankars.

Historically, Bhagwan Mahavir lived more than 2,500 years ago. But Jain tradition says Jain Dharma existed long before him, through earlier Tirthankars, especially Bhagwan Rishabhdev.

Was Jain Dharma the first Dharma on Earth?

From the Jain viewpoint, Jain Dharma is eternal and therefore has no first beginning. So Jain tradition does not say it “started” like a new religion.

If we speak historically, it is difficult to prove which Dharma was absolutely first on Earth. But Jain Dharma is one of the most ancient spiritual traditions known, and Jain tradition regards its teachings as timeless.

Takeaway

Jain Dharma did not “come” at one date. In Jain belief, it is eternal, and in this time cycle it was taught by the 24 Tirthankars, beginning with Bhagwan Rishabhdev and ending with Bhagwan Mahavir.