In Jainism, the concept of time is cyclical, divided into vast eras called "Aaras" (time cycles). Each half-cycle (Utsarpini and Avasarpini) consists of six Aaras, and during each half-cycle, 24 Tirthankaras are born to guide souls toward liberation (moksha).

Before the first Tirthankara of the current half-cycle—Rishabhanatha (Adinath)—there were countless souls, and the universe existed eternally. Jainism teaches that the universe is without beginning or end (anadi-ananta); it is never created or destroyed, only undergoing transformation.

Before Rishabhanatha, there was no organized spiritual guidance in the form of Tirthankaras. People lived primitive lives, lacking knowledge of right conduct, spirituality, or social order. According to Jain texts, Rishabhanatha was the first to teach essential skills such as agriculture, pottery, writing, and social organization, as well as the path of right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct (the three jewels of Jainism).

However, even before Tirthankaras, there were always living beings (jivas) undergoing cycles of birth and rebirth according to their karma. The principles of karma, transmigration, and the eternal soul have always existed, but the clear path to liberation was illuminated by the teachings of the Tirthankaras, beginning with Rishabhanatha in this time cycle.