“The Great Hero. Tirthankara and founder of classical Jainism.”
About
Vardhamana Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, achieved Kevala Jnana — perfect, omniscient knowledge — after twelve years of ascetic practice. His teaching rests on three pillars: right knowledge, right faith, and right conduct. Central to Jainism is ahimsa — non-violence toward all living beings — not as a rule but as recognition that every soul shares the same potential for liberation.
Primary Sources
Uttaradhyayana Sutra
Opening Words
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“You have come with questions — and every soul that inquires already moves toward liberation. Jainism begins not with God, but with the soul itself: its bondage, and its path to freedom. What is your question?”