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TirthankarisanArihanta, whore-establishes the Jain religious order (congregation) comprising of monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen. During each half time cycle, 24 souls rise to become Tirthankars.
The first Tirthankar of our period is Rishabhadev (Ädinäth), and the twentyfourth and last Tirthankar is Mahävir-swämi, who lived from 599 BC to 527 BC.
Tirthankars were human beings like us who have gone through the cycle of birth and death, accumulating Karma. One of the Karma they earn is the Tirthankar Nämkarma. One acquires this Näm-karma by having an intense desire of spreading the message of compassion towards all living beings, anekäntaväda, non-possessiveness and self control to all living beings.
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2.3 Tirthankars
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Megharath sacrificing himself to save the pigeon
TIRTHANKARS
This Näm-karma is determined two lives prior to the life they attain Moksha. This karma matures in the third life where they attain Keval-jnän.
For
example, Shäntinäth Bhagawän attained Tirthankar Näm-karma in the tenth life (Bhav) when he was born as Prince Megharath. He attained Keval-jnän in his twelfth life (Bhav) as Shäntinäth.
After attaining Keval-jnän, Tirthankars reestablish a four-fold Jain order known as Chaturvidha Sangha, consisting of Sädhus, Sädhvis, Shrävaks, and Shrävikäs. They reorganize the religious conducts to suit the changing times.
A Tirthankar is also known as Arihanta or Jina.
Did you know?
In every half time-cycle, there are 24 Tirthankars
THE FIRST STEP OF JAINISM
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