Who among the following was the last Tirthankara of Jainism?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Mahavira.
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Jainism has 24 Tirthankaras.
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Lord Rishabha was the first Tirthankara, and Lord Mahavira was the last.
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Mahavira, also known as Vardhamana, is revered as the 24th and final Tirthankara (Ford-Maker) of the present cosmic age (Avasarpiṇī).
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He lived in the 6th century BCE and played a pivotal role in organizing and reforming the Jain monastic order, compiling the teachings that form the core of modern Jainism.
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Lord Mahavira wandered for 12 years to attain perfect knowledge and was later called Jina (conqueror); his followers are called Jains.
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Jainism emphasizes three jewels for salvation: right belief, right knowledge, and right action.
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Jain monks strictly practiced non-violence (ahimsa) and opposed the caste system.
Other Options:
- Parsvanatha: He was the 23rd Tirthankara and the immediate predecessor to Mahavira. He is a historical figure whose four basic vows (non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, and non-possession) are central to the religion.
- Naminatha: He was the 21st Tirthankara.
- Ajitanatha: He was the 2nd Tirthankara.