Answer

Jain Dharma is traditionally understood to be eternal, not founded at one single point in history. According to Jain tradition, the path of Dharma has been taught again and again by the Tirthankars in every time cycle.

So, from the Jain perspective, Jain Dharma is not considered to have “started after” Hindu Dharma. It is regarded as an eternal spiritual path.

Explanation

In Jain tradition:

• Rishabhdev Bhagwan, the 1st Tirthankar of the present time cycle, is considered the first teacher of Jain Dharma in this era.
• Mahavir Swami, the 24th Tirthankar, did not create Jain Dharma; he revived and taught the same eternal path.
• Jain Dharma teaches that truth, soul, karma, non-violence, and liberation are eternal principles.

Historically, Jain Dharma is one of the most ancient religious traditions of India. It developed independently with its own philosophy, scriptures, ethics, monks, nuns, and spiritual practices.

Spiritual Understanding

Jain Dharma does not define itself mainly by comparison with another religion. Its focus is on:

• Ahimsa — non-violence
• Aparigraha — non-possessiveness
• Anekantavada — many-sided understanding of truth
• Atma-sadhana — purification of the soul
• Moksha — liberation from karma and rebirth

Takeaway

According to Jain belief, Jain Dharma is eternal and was taught in this time cycle by the Tirthankars, beginning with Rishabhdev Bhagwan and most recently by Mahavir Swami. Historically, it is among the oldest spiritual traditions of India and is independent of Hindu Dharma.