24 Tirthankaras Under Jainism

Introduction

Jainism, one of the oldest religions in the world, is based on the teachings of 24 Tirthankaras. These spiritual leaders, or “ford-makers,” guide followers across the cycle of birth and rebirth towards liberation (Moksha). Each Tirthankara has played a pivotal role in shaping Jain philosophy and practices.

The 24 Tirthankaras

1. Rishabhanatha (Adinatha)

  • Symbol: Bull
  • Era: Prehistoric
  • Significance: Considered the first Tirthankara, Rishabhanatha introduced the concept of societal organization and agriculture. He is revered as the founder of Jainism.

2. Ajitanatha

  • Symbol: Elephant
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Known for his teachings on non-violence and truthfulness, Ajitanatha emphasized the importance of spiritual discipline and self-restraint.

3. Sambhavanatha

  • Symbol: Horse
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Sambhavanatha focused on the principles of non-attachment and meditation, encouraging followers to seek inner peace and liberation.

4. Abhinandananatha

  • Symbol: Monkey
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Abhinandananatha’s teachings centered around purity and simplicity, guiding Jains towards a life of minimalism and ethical conduct.

5. Sumatinatha

  • Symbol: Curlew
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Sumatinatha is known for his emphasis on wisdom and knowledge, promoting the pursuit of truth through study and reflection.

6. Padmaprabha

  • Symbol: Red Lotus
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Padmaprabha advocated for the practice of non-violence and compassion, highlighting the interconnectedness of all living beings.

7. Suparshvanatha

  • Symbol: Swastika
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Suparshvanatha’s teachings revolved around the virtues of honesty and integrity, encouraging followers to lead a life of moral excellence.

8. Chandraprabha

  • Symbol: Crescent Moon
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Chandraprabha is celebrated for his focus on mental clarity and serenity, guiding Jains towards a tranquil and balanced life.

9. Suvidhinatha (Pushpadanta)

  • Symbol: Crocodile
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Suvidhinatha emphasized the importance of duty and responsibility, teaching that true liberation comes through selfless service.

10. Shitalanatha

  • Symbol: Srivatsa
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Shitalanatha is known for his advocacy of inner and outer cleanliness, promoting purity in thought, word, and deed.

11. Shreyansanatha

  • Symbol: Rhinoceros
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Shreyansanatha’s teachings focused on the cultivation of compassion and empathy, fostering a deep respect for all forms of life.

12. Vasupujya

  • Symbol: Buffalo
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Vasupujya is celebrated for his emphasis on humility and gratitude, guiding Jains towards a life of modesty and thankfulness.

13. Vimalanatha

  • Symbol: Boar
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Vimalanatha’s teachings highlight the importance of purity and self-discipline, encouraging followers to maintain a pure mind and body.

14. Anantanatha

  • Symbol: Falcon
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Anantanatha is known for his focus on infinite knowledge and perception, guiding Jains towards the ultimate realization of truth.

15. Dharmanatha

  • Symbol: Vajra
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Dharmanatha’s teachings center around the principles of righteousness and justice, promoting ethical living and moral conduct.

16. Shantinatha

  • Symbol: Deer
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Shantinatha is celebrated for his advocacy of peace and tranquility, guiding Jains towards a life of inner and outer harmony.

17. Kunthunatha

  • Symbol: Goat
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Kunthunatha’s teachings emphasize the importance of non-violence and self-restraint, promoting a life of compassion and discipline.

18. Aranatha

  • Symbol: Nandavarta
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Aranatha is known for his focus on spiritual knowledge and wisdom, guiding Jains towards enlightenment and liberation.

19. Mallinatha

  • Symbol: Water Pot
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Mallinatha’s teachings highlight the importance of purity and detachment, promoting a life of simplicity and spiritual focus.

20. Munisuvrata

  • Symbol: Tortoise
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Munisuvrata is celebrated for his advocacy of truth and non-violence, guiding Jains towards ethical living and spiritual growth.

21. Naminatha

  • Symbol: Blue Lotus
  • Era: Treta Yuga
  • Significance: Naminatha’s teachings emphasize the cultivation of inner strength and resilience, promoting a life of perseverance and determination.

22. Neminatha

  • Symbol: Conch
  • Era: Dwapara Yuga
  • Significance: Neminatha is known for his focus on non-violence and renunciation, guiding Jains towards a life of compassion and self-discipline.

23. Parshvanatha

  • Symbol: Serpent
  • Era: Dwapara Yuga
  • Significance: Parshvanatha is celebrated for his teachings on the fourfold restraint (Chaturyama), promoting ethical living and spiritual growth.

24. Mahavira (Vardhamana)

  • Symbol: Lion
  • Era: 6th century BCE
  • Significance: Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara, revitalized Jainism with his emphasis on non-violence, truth, and asceticism. His teachings form the foundation of contemporary Jain practice.

Conclusion

The 24 Tirthankaras of Jainism provide a comprehensive spiritual framework guiding followers towards ethical living and liberation. Their teachings on non-violence, truth, and renunciation offer timeless wisdom relevant in today’s world, promoting peace, compassion, and spiritual growth.