In Jainism, a 'Tirthankara' is someone who is regarded as a:
Correct Answer: Saviour and Spiritual Teacher
Subject: history
- God Creator
- Saviour and Spiritual Teacher
- Ritual Priest
- Warrior King
Explanation: • Tirthankara = 'Ford-maker' (tirtha = crossing; kara = maker) — one who creates a path across samsara
• There are 24 Tirthankaras in each cosmic cycle
• 1st: Rishabhanatha (Adinatha) — mentioned in Rigveda and Bhagavata Purana
• 23rd: Parsvanatha — preached 4 vows (Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Aparigraha)
• 24th: Mahavira — added 5th vow (Brahmacharya); last Tirthankara of current cycle
• Unlike gods, Tirthankaras do NOT intervene after attaining liberation