Who are the 24 Tirthankars of Jainism? List & Significance

A Tirthankar is a 'Ford-maker' who creates a bridge across the ocean of worldly existence (Samsara). They are enlightened souls who have attained Moksha and teach others the path to spiritual liberation.

The 24 Tirthankars of the Current Era

According to Jain tradition, 24 Tirthankars appear in every half-cycle of time. In our current era (Avasarpini), these 24 souls attained enlightenment and guided humanity.

1. Lord Rishabhdev (Adinath) - Symbol: Bull
2. Lord Ajitnath - Symbol: Elephant
3. Lord Sambhavnath - Symbol: Horse
4. Lord Abhinandannath - Symbol: Monkey
5. Lord Sumatinath - Symbol: Curlew/Heron
6. Lord Padmaprabha - Symbol: Red Lotus
7. Lord Suparshvanath - Symbol: Swastika
8. Lord Chandraprabha - Symbol: Moon
9. Lord Pushpadanta (Suvidhinath) - Symbol: Crocodile
10. Lord Shitalnath - Symbol: Shrivatsa
11. Lord Shreyansnath - Symbol: Rhinoceros
12. Lord Vasupujya - Symbol: Female Buffalo
13. Lord Vimalnath - Symbol: Wild Boar
14. Lord Anantnath - Symbol: Porcupine
15. Lord Dharmanath - Symbol: Thunderbolt
16. Lord Shantinath - Symbol: Deer
17. Lord Kunthunath - Symbol: Goat
18. Lord Aranath - Symbol: Nandyavarta
19. Lord Mallinath - Symbol: Water Pot
20. Lord Munisuvratnath - Symbol: Tortoise
21. Lord Naminath - Symbol: Blue Lotus
22. Lord Neminath - Symbol: Conch
23. Lord Parshvanath - Symbol: Snake
24. Lord Mahavira - Symbol: Lion

Why are Tirthankars Worshipped?

Jains worship Tirthankars not as creators, but as role models. By observing their life of detachment and penance, a devotee is inspired to walk the same path toward inner purity and eventual Moksha.