Who preached about ahimsa

In Jainism, Ahimsa (non-violence) is the core ethical principle preached by all the Tirthankaras, who are the spiritual teachers and exemplars of the faith. Ahimsa goes beyond mere non-violence to include a profound identification with all living beings—humans, animals, birds, and even plants—reflecting a universal kinship and oneness with life. Jain teachers and acharyas have propagated Ahimsa as a way of life that fosters tolerance, compassion, and spiritual upliftment. Historical Jain figures such as Svayambhu contributed literary works aimed at spreading the religion of Ahimsa and promoting religious tolerance during times of fanaticism. Jainism's emphasis on Ahimsa is so foundational that even rulers and kings who were followers of Jainism upheld this principle despite their worldly roles involving conflict and governance. This teaching of Ahimsa is recognized as one of the five immortal ideals of ancient Indian culture, alongside Satva, Dharma, Shanti, and Prem, and has influenced global ethical thought. Thus, Ahimsa is not only a religious doctrine but a universal ethic preached and practiced by Jain spiritual leaders throughout history.