- The Jain tradition has a succession of teachers called Tirthankaras. There are a total of 24 Tirthankaras associated with Jainism.
- The first Tirthankara is believed to be Rishabhanatha. The last Tirthankara is believed to be Vardhaman Mahavira.
- It is believed that all Tirthankaras were Kshatriyas by birth.
Main Teachings of Jainism
- Jainism rejects the idea of a creator of the world as well as the authority of the Vedas.
- Jainism believes that humans may be good or bad according to their actions and not on account of their birth.
- They believe in karma and the transmigration of the soul.
- Salvation or nirvana comes from getting rid of the cycle of birth and rebirth and can be attained by leading a pure life guided by the three-fold path of right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.
- Right to conduct involves abstinence from lying and stealing, non-possession, ahimsa, and control of the senses.
- The teachings of the Tirthankaras were compiled in 12 angas, which were written down at Vallabhi in the 5th century CE.
Source: The Indian Express