Jainism is an Indian religion which teaches a path toward spiritual purity and enlightenment through disciplined non-violence to all living creatures. The tradition is spiritually guided by twenty-four tirthankaras (ford-makers), supreme teachers who have conquered the cycle of rebirth and attained omniscience. Jain philosophy is established on three ethical pillars: nonviolence, non-absolutism or many-sided reality, and non-possession. While its ultimate spiritual goal is liberation from karma, these ethical principles have historically fostered a community renowned for its high literacy, trusted role in commerce, and intellectual culture.