Tirthankaras (24 Tirthankars) – Divine Guides of Jainism
➤ Introduction to Tirthankaras
In Jainism, Tirthankaras are spiritually enlightened beings who rediscover and teach the eternal path of liberation. The term Tirthankara means “one who creates a spiritual crossing”—guiding souls across the cycle of birth and death (saṃsāra) toward moksha.
Jain tradition recognises 24 Tirthankaras in the present cosmic cycle, each appearing when spiritual values decline.
➤ Who Is a Tirthankara?
A Tirthankara is a liberated soul (Siddha) who has attained:
- Infinite Knowledge (Kevala Jñāna)
- Infinite Perception
- Infinite Bliss
Infinite Energy
After enlightenment, a Tirthankara establishes the fourfold Jain community:
- Monks
- Nuns
- Laymen
Laywomen
They do not create the universe or grant favors; instead, they show the path of self-realisation.
➤ Eternal Role of Tirthankaras in Jainism
According to Jain philosophy, the universe is eternal and uncreated. Likewise, the appearance of Tirthankaras is also eternal. In every time cycle, they re-establish Jain dharma by teaching timeless spiritual truths.
Thus, Tirthankaras are not confined to history alone but are part of an ongoing cosmic process.
📚 The 24 Tirthankaras of the Present Era
Below is the traditional list of the 24 Tirthankaras of the current descending time cycle.
Each Tirthankara preached the same eternal principles, adapted to the spiritual capacity of their era.
➤ Core Teachings of All Tirthankaras
All Tirthankaras taught identical ethical foundations:
- Ahimsa – Non-violence
- Satya – Truthfulness
- Asteya – Non-stealing
- Brahmacharya – Celibacy
- Aparigraha – Non-attachment
These principles form the backbone of Jain philosophy and conduct.
➤ Symbols Associated with Tirthankaras
Each Tirthankara is traditionally associated with:
- A unique emblem (lāñchhana)
- A specific color
- A Yaksha–Yakshini pair
- A sacred tree
These symbols help devotees identify individual Tirthankaras while reinforcing spiritual equality among them.
➤ Tirthankaras and the Jain Concept of God
In Jainism, God is not a creator but a perfectly liberated soul. Tirthankaras represent the highest spiritual achievement possible. Their worship inspires self-discipline, inner purity, and spiritual effort, rather than dependence on divine grace.
➤ Modern Relevance of Tirthankaras
The teachings of Tirthankaras remain highly relevant today:
- Ahimsa promotes peace and environmental ethics
- Aparigraha addresses materialism and excess
Self-discipline supports mental clarity and balance
Their message transcends religion and speaks to universal human values.
➤ Frequently Asked Questions about Tirthankaras
✦ What role do Tirthankaras play in Jainism?
Tirthankaras serve as spiritual pathfinders in Jainism. They rediscover the eternal principles of dharma and guide souls toward liberation through personal effort, discipline, and self-realisation.
✦ Are Tirthankaras considered gods in Jainism?
No. Tirthankaras are liberated souls, not creator gods. Jainism does not believe in a creator deity. Tirthankaras are revered because they have attained the highest spiritual state and show others the same path.
✦ What is the difference between a Tirthankara and a monk?
A monk follows the teachings of Jainism and strives for liberation, whereas a Tirthankara has already achieved Kevala Jñāna (omniscience) and establishes the spiritual path for others to follow.
✦ Are the teachings of all Tirthankaras the same?
Yes. All Tirthankaras teach the same core principles, such as non-violence, truth, and non-attachment. The teachings may be explained differently according to the needs of the time, but the essence remains unchanged.
✦ Why do Jains worship Tirthankaras?
Jains worship Tirthankaras as ideal role models, not as grantors of wishes. Their worship inspires inner purification, ethical living, and spiritual discipline.
➤ Conclusion
Tirthankaras are the eternal spiritual guides of Jainism. Their lives demonstrate that liberation is achieved not through divine intervention, but through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.
Understanding the role of the 24 Tirthankaras offers a clear gateway into the heart of Jain dharma.