How Do You Spell TIRTHANKARA?

Pronunciation: [tˌɜːθɐŋkˈɑːɹə] (IPA)

Tirthankara is a word commonly used in Jainism to refer to the twenty-four spiritual leaders who have attained moksha. The word is spelled /tɪrtʰəŋkərə/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet, indicating the pronunciation of "th" as a voiced dental fricative and the "r" as a retroflex flap. This complex word combines the Sanskrit roots "tirtha" meaning "ford" or "crossing," and "ankara" meaning "maker" or "producer." Together, tirthankara means "creator of a ford," referring to the spiritual path that leads to liberation.

TIRTHANKARA Meaning and Definition

1. Tirthankara is a term derived from Jainism, an ancient Indian religion. It refers to a highly revered spiritual leader or enlightened being who has achieved liberation and enlightenment, known as moksha, and serves as a guide for fellow practitioners on the path to spiritual awakening.

   The term "tirthankara" is composed of two parts: "tirtha," meaning "ford" or "crossing," and "ankara," referring to "maker" or "founder." In Jainism, it symbolizes a spiritual pioneer who establishes a bridge or path for individuals to cross over the ocean of birth, death, and transmigration towards liberation. Tirthankaras are considered the fordmakers of the spiritual realm.

   Jainism believes in the existence of twenty-four tirthankaras, with the legendary Rishabhanatha as the first, and Mahavira as the twenty-fourth and most recent. These enlightened beings are considered divine and are worshiped as eternal souls who have overcome the cycle of birth and death. Their teachings and path to spirituality provide moral and ethical guidelines for followers, emphasizing non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession.

   The tirthankaras are depicted sitting or standing in meditation, often adorned with symbols representing their virtues. They are revered in Jain temples, and their statues and images serve as objects of veneration and devotion for the followers of Jainism.

   Overall, a tirthankara is a highly enlightened being in Jainism who paves the way for spiritual liberation, acting as a spiritual leader and guide for practitioners seeking enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Etymology of TIRTHANKARA

The word "tirthankara" has its origins in the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit. It is composed of two parts: "tirtha" and "ankara".

1. Tirtha: In Sanskrit, "tirtha" denotes a sacred place or a ford, typically associated with a river. It is derived from the root word "tṛ", meaning "to cross over" or "to pass through". In a figurative sense, "tirtha" can be understood as a spiritual crossing or a destination of pilgrimage.

2. Ankara: The term "ankara" is derived from the root word "aṅk", meaning "mark" or "sign". It is often associated with someone who is an embodiment or creator of a certain quality or attribute.