24th Tirthankara?
VerifiedAnswer: Mahavira Swami Ji
Explanation:
Mahavira Swami Ji is revered as the 24th and final Tirthankara in Jainism. Born as Vardhamana in 599 BCE in Kundalagrama (present-day Bihar), he belonged to a royal family but chose the path of spiritual enlightenment over material wealth and power.
At the age of 30, Mahavira renounced his worldly life and became an ascetic. He spent 12 years in intense meditation and penance, during which he practiced severe austerities. After achieving Kevala Gyana (supreme knowledge) at the age of 42, he began preaching the principles of Jainism to people from all walks of life.
Mahavira's teachings emphasized the five main principles of Jainism:
• Ahimsa (Non-violence) - The most fundamental principle • Satya (Truthfulness) - Speaking and living truthfully • Asteya (Non-stealing) - Not taking what is not given • Brahmacharya (Celibacy) - Control over desires • Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness) - Detachment from material things
What makes Mahavira particularly significant is that he didn't establish Jainism but rather reformed and revitalized the existing teachings of the previous Tirthankaras, especially those of Parsva (the 23rd Tirthankara). He made the religion more accessible to common people and organized the Jain community into a well-structured four-fold order comprising monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen.
Mahavira traveled extensively across India for 30 years, spreading his message of peace, compassion, and spiritual liberation. His teachings were compiled by his disciples into texts known as Agamas, which form the foundation of Jain literature and philosophy.
He attained Moksha (liberation) in 527 BCE at Pavapuri in Bihar at the age of 72. His death anniversary is celebrated as Deepavali by the Jain community. Today, millions of Jains worldwide follow his teachings, making him one of the most influential spiritual leaders in Indian history. His emphasis on non-violence and compassion continues to inspire people across different religions and cultures.
