Final answer:
The twenty-four figures in Jainism, including Mahavira who is the last, are called Tirthankaras. They taught the path of non-violence and guide souls towards liberation from rebirth, with Jainism still having millions of followers primarily in India.
Step-by-step explanation:
The twenty-four figures who precede Mahavira in the establishment of Jainism are collectively called Tirthankaras, or ford-makers. Mahavira himself is considered to be the 24th Tirthankara. These spiritual pioneers are believed to have rediscovered and taught the path of ahimsa, or non-violence, which is central to Jain philosophy. The teaching of Tirthankaras is meant to guide souls towards moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
Influential ideas from Jainism, such as ahimsa, have had a significant impact on history, notably inspiring leaders like Mahatma Gandhi during the Indian independence movement. Today, Jainism remains a vital religion, predominantly in India, with an estimated four to five million followers, emphasizing non-possessions and devotional practices.