Tirthankaras
Introduction
The term Tirthankara refers to the spiritual teachers in Jainism who have attained the ultimate spiritual goal of liberation, or moksha. They are also known as Jinas, or "conquerors", as they have conquered the cycle of birth and death. The word Tirthankara signifies the founder of a tirtha, which is a passage across the sea of interminable births and deaths.
Concept of Tirthankaras
In Jainism, a Tirthankara is a rare individual who has conquered the samsara, the cycle of death and rebirth, on their own, and made a path for others to follow. The Tirthankaras are not considered to be gods, but rather guides and teachers who can help others achieve liberation.
List of Tirthankaras
Jainism acknowledges a total of twenty-four Tirthankaras. The first Tirthankara was Rishabhanatha, and the last and most recent Tirthankara was Mahavira. Each of the Tirthankaras was born as a human being but achieved enlightenment through meditation and self-realization.
Significance of Tirthankaras
The Tirthankaras play a significant role in Jainism. They are revered as enlightened beings who have achieved liberation and can guide others on the path to moksha. The teachings of the Tirthankaras form the basis of Jain scriptures, and their lives and virtues are celebrated in various Jain rituals and festivals.
Iconography of Tirthankaras
The Tirthankaras are typically depicted in the lotus position or kayotsarga, the standing position of meditation. They are usually depicted without clothes, symbolizing their detachment from worldly possessions. Each Tirthankara is associated with a specific symbol or lanchhana which helps in their identification.
Conclusion
The concept of Tirthankaras is central to Jainism. These enlightened beings serve as guides for those seeking liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Their teachings form the core of Jain philosophy and their lives serve as an inspiration for Jains worldwide.