What is a tirthankara in Jainism?
Q: What is a tirthankara in Jainism?
A: A tirthankara in Jainism is an all knowing Teaching God who teaches the path to liberation from the cycle of births and deaths, called saṃsāra.
Q: How many tirthankaras grace this part of the universe in each half of the Jain time cycle?
A: Exactly twenty-four tirthankaras grace this part of the universe in each half of the Jain time cycle.
Q: Who was the first tirthankara?
A: The first tirthankara was Rishabhanatha, who is said to have taught men various arts and professions including agriculture.
Q: Who was the 24th and last tirthankara of present half-cycle?
A: The 24th and last tirthankara of present half-cycle was Mahavira (599-527 BC).
Q: What are Tirthankaras' teachings compiled as?
A: Tirthankaras' teachings are compiled as scriptures called Agamas.
Q: Are Tithrankaras worshiped by Jains only?
A: No, while Tithrankaras are worshiped by Jains, their grace is said to be available for all living beings, regardless of religious orientation.
Q: What does it mean when someone has conquered inner enemies such as anger, attachment, pride and greed?
A: When someone has conquered inner enemies such as anger, attachment, pride and greed they are referred to as a "Jina" which means one who has conquered these inner enemies.
