तिर्थंकर (Tirthankara) refers to a revered spiritual teacher in the Jain tradition. They are believed to be enlightened beings who have attained liberation (मोक्ष) and guide others on the path to spiritual awakening. There are 24 Tirthankaras in Jainism, with महावीर (Mahavira) being the last and most well-known. Each Tirthankara is said to have established a धर्म (religion) and provided teachings that emphasize non-violence, truth, and asceticism. Their teachings form the foundation of Jain philosophy, which encourages followers to live a life of compassion and self-discipline to achieve spiritual purity and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.