Jainism
Originated in India thousands of years ago and is thought to have heavily influenced the two other main belief systems of the region at that time: Hinduism-2/”>Hinduism and Buddhism-2/”>Buddhism. The religion centres on the progress of one’s soul towards a divine consciousness through self-reformation, wisdom and self-control and pacifism towards all living creatures. There are two main sects of Jains today; the Digambara and the Svetambara. There are thought to be 10 million Jains worldwide, the majority of them in India and amongst Indian expatriate communities in North America, Asia and East Africa.
Origins
Jainism grew in India many thousands of years ago. As with Hinduism, some Jains believe that the origins are millions of years ago, although obviously it is impossible to verify the exact origins. The more realistic assessment is that the religion dates back to the second or third millennium BCE, and there are archaeological remnants found among the Indus Valley civilisations (sites such as Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro in modern Pakistan) from around 1500 BCE that appear to mention Jain Tirthankaras.
Jains believe that there had been 24 great teachers known as ‘Tirthan-karas’ (‘those who have discovered and then shown the way to eternal salvation’) who taught people how to live in harmony with the universe and ultimately to achieve spiritual liberation through their own example. The first of these Tirthankaras was Rushabha. The 23rd was Parsva who lived from 872-772 BCE according to some sources.
The last of these teachers born in northern India in 599 BCE was Virdhamana, the son of King Siddhartha. At the age of 30, he went into seclusion as an ascetic and following twelve years of intense prayer and contemplation, claimed to reach enlightenment. It was at that point that he was given the title Mahavira (great hero). He spent the rest of his life teaching others how to fulfil the purpose of their existence and to achieve complete liberation from the shackles of modern life. He is widely accredited with establishing the present ‘Jain’ belief system. Mahavira passed away in 527 BCE at the age of 72 years leaving behind 14,000 monks and 36,000 nuns.
The 24 Tirthankaras in order are:
Rushabha, Ajitnath, Sambhavanath, Abhinandan Swami, Sumatinath, Padmaprabhu, Suparshvanath, Chandraprabhu, Pushpadanta, Sheetalnath, Shreyansanath, Vasupujya Swami, Vimalnath, Anantnath, Dharmanath, Shantinath, Kunthananth, Aranath, Mallinath, Munisuvrata Swami, Nami Nath, Neminath, Parshavnath and Mahavira.
As mentioned earlier, through various interactions in India, Jainism had an influence on Hinduism and Buddhism, and they share concepts such as the seeking of freedom from worldly life and reincarnation of the soul. Some scholars suggest that Hinduism adopted vegetarianism through strong Jain influence across India.
Sacred Texts
Jains believe that the knowledge of the true path (dharma) reaches a zenith and then wanes several times through the cycle of history, and each time the knowledge is revived through a Tirthankara just as other monotheistic faiths believe that prophets were sent by a Creator to revive faith.
Mahavira is believed to have recorded his teachings in a series of texts known as the Agamas, although the Jain texts are the major source of controversy between the sects. The Digambara sect believes that following a vast famine in 350 BCE when many monks died, the original texts were also lost, whereas the Svetambara sect (whilst acknowledging that the Purvas texts were lost) believes that the majority of the texts survived in the form that we have today.
The most often cited book of the Jains is the Tattvartha Sutra (Book of Reality) thought to date from the second millennium BCE, but only recorded in written form in the 5th century CE by Umasvati, and it is at that point that Jainism splintered into the two main sects.
Beliefs
The Jains have 5 great vows by which they try to live their lives:
Non-violence (Ahimsa) towards all living beings (human, animal or plant life) including a spectrum of harm from insult and injury to death;
Not getting too attached (Aparigraha) to material possessions, people or places;
Not telling lies (Satya);
Not stealing (Asteya) or taking things that are not willingly handed over;
Sexual restraint (Brahmacarya) practised as celibacy by monks and nuns, and monogamy by normal Society.
They believe that all human, animal and plant life has a soul and therefore all of these life forms must be treated equally and fairly.
Jains believe that the purpose of man and creatures is to realise the soul’s true nature through the triple gems of (1) true perception, (2) true knowledge and (3) true conduct.
Unlike many other faiths, the Jains do not believe in a creator God or in spiritual beings such as angels, but do focus on the concept of reincarnation through which the soul evolves in life cycles until it reaches enlightenment when the soul is called jina (victorious). Whereas the major monotheistic faiths also believe in a spiritual journey, in the case of those faiths (Judaism, Christianity and Islam), their followers seek the help of the Creator God to achieve spiritual liberation, whereas Jains believe that this journey is undertaken purely through their own efforts to achieve inner peace.
Moreover, the philosophy is that every soul is the architect of its own destiny. As a result of these beliefs, Jains also believe in an infinite Universe that was never created and will never end, but goes through major cycles.
The ultimate goal of self-reformation and the application of the Jain triple gems is to break free from the cycle of birth and death. In Jainism, a soul that frees itself (moksha) from the samsara cycle of life and death is called siddha (liberated soul) whereas those souls which are still attached to the wordly life are called samsarin (mundane souls). A liberated soul experiences boundless knowledge, power, perception and happiness.
As a result of these beliefs, they are vegetarians and aim to live in a manner which minimises the use of natural Resources so as to limit the impact upon other life forms. Rigid followers will allow head lice to survive on their head and not shave their head or take any medicine. Even bacteria is not supposed to be killed.
Jains believe in soul reincarnation through phases including hell-being, sub-human (animal, plant and insects), human and super-human, and that there are an infinite number of souls in the Universe, that like matter, pre-existed creation.
Modern Jains
Modern Jain society has a concept of monks and nuns similar to Buddhism and Christianity, but has no priestly class. Monks and nuns live a celibate and ascetic lifestyle and take on greater vows and responsibilities than normal society.
Jains are recognised by their symbol which is the Swastika. Although this symbol was misused by the Nazis of Germany in the last century, the original Jain symbol signifies peace and well-being. The Jain Swastika appears in all temples and holy books, and during ceremonies, a swastika is created using rice.
Jains do have some idols, but these represent souls that have conquered their passions rather than deities.
Jains have several days of fasting on which they abstain from all food but can take water. During the fast, they focus on worship, contemplation and reading scriptures. Although there are specific fast days, Jains also perform voluntary fasts at any time of the year to cleanse themselves.
Their festivals include the following:
Mahavira Jayanti – a celebration of the birth of Mahavira
Paryushana – 8 days of fasting
Divali – a festival of renewal and lights also celebrated by Hindus, but significant for Jains as the day that Mahavira achieved enlightenment
Kartak Purnima – an annual pilgrimage to the key Jain sites in India
Mauna Agyaras – a single day of fasting
Kshamavaani – a day to seek forgiveness from everyone else
Jains are renowned for the value that they place on Education, and are recognised in India as the most literate community. Their libraries are well respected and complement the zeal for knowledge to enrich the soul.
Jainism in Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh, a state in north India has a long association with Jainism. Today the state is home to a number of Jain monuments, such as Jain Temples and Jain Tirths.
Parshvanatha, the twenty-third tirthankara, was born in Benaras (now Varanasi) in 872 BCE. According to Jain tradition, Kashi (now Varanasi) is the birthplace of three more tithankaras, namely Suparshvanatha, Chandraprabha and Shreyansanatha. According to Jain tradition, five tirthankaras were born at Ayodhya including Rishabhanatha, Ajitanatha, Abhinandananatha, Sumatinatha and Anantanatha. The famous naked Jain male torso found at Lohanipur, whether Mauryan or, more likely Kushana, is generally taken as indicative evidence of some sort of representational cult in early Jainism which reached an early height at Mathura, and certainly inscriptions from the many ayagapatas of the Mathura region make clear that puja to the tirthankaras with lay and ascetic involvement was an important dimension to this.
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Jainism is one of the oldest religions in the world, and it has a long and rich history in Uttar Pradesh. The first Jains are believed to have lived in Uttar Pradesh around the 6th century BCE, and the religion has flourished in the region ever since.
There are many major Jain temples in Uttar Pradesh, including the Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu, the Ranakpur Jain Temple in Rajasthan, and the Osian Jain Temples in Rajasthan. These temples are some of the most beautiful and impressive examples of Jain architecture in the world.
Jainism has also produced many great saints and scholars from Uttar Pradesh. Some of the most famous Jain saints include Mahavira, Parshvanatha, and Rishabhanatha. These saints were all instrumental in the development of Jainism, and their teachings continue to inspire Jains around the world.
Jainism also has a rich tradition of festivals and fairs. Some of the most important Jain Festivals include Mahavir Jayanti, Paryushana, and Akshaya Tritiya. These festivals are celebrated by Jains all over the world, and they provide an opportunity for Jains to come together and celebrate their religion.
Jain art and architecture is also very distinctive. Jain temples are often decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures, and Jain paintings are known for their beautiful colors and designs. Jain art and architecture is a reflection of the rich culture and history of Jainism.
Jain Literature and philosophy is also very rich. Jain texts cover a wide range of topics, including philosophy, religion, ethics, and history. Jain literature is a valuable source of information about Jainism, and it provides insights into the Jain way of life.
Jain social and economic life in Uttar Pradesh is also very vibrant. Jains are involved in a variety of businesses and professions, and they make significant contributions to the economy of Uttar Pradesh. Jains are also active in social welfare and education, and they are committed to making the world a better place.
Jainism has made a significant contribution to Indian culture and civilization. Jain values such as non-violence, compassion, and vegetarianism have had a positive impact on Indian Society. Jains have also made important contributions to Indian art, architecture, literature, and philosophy.
Jainism is a minority religion in Uttar Pradesh, but it has a long and rich history in the region. Jains have made significant contributions to Indian culture and civilization, and they continue to play an important role in the social and economic life of Uttar Pradesh.
Jainism is facing some challenges in the modern world. One challenge is the rise of materialism and consumerism. Jains believe in living a simple life, and they are often critical of the materialistic values of modern society. Another challenge is the rise of religious fundamentalism. Jains are a peaceful religion, and they are often the target of violence from religious fundamentalists.
Despite these challenges, Jainism is a vibrant and dynamic religion. Jains are committed to preserving their religion and culture, and they are working to make the world a better place.
Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that teaches that the way to liberation and bliss is to live a life of harmlessness and renunciation. The goal of Jainism is to achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
Jainism is one of the oldest religions in the world, and it is still practiced by millions of people today. The majority of Jains live in India, but there are also significant Jain populations in other parts of the world, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
The founder of Jainism was Mahavira, who lived in India in the 6th century BCE. Mahavira was a prince who renounced his wealth and social position to live a life of asceticism. He taught that the way to liberation was to follow the path of ahimsa, or non-violence.
Jainism is a religion that emphasizes the importance of living a moral life. Jains believe that all living beings are interconnected, and that it is important to avoid harming any living creature. Jains also believe in the importance of vegetarianism, and many Jains practice fasting and other forms of self-denial.
Jainism is a religion that has had a significant impact on Indian culture. Jain art, architecture, and literature are all highly developed. Jains have also made significant contributions to Indian science and mathematics.
Here are some frequently asked questions about Jainism:
What is Jainism?
Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that teaches that the way to liberation and bliss is to live a life of harmlessness and renunciation. The goal of Jainism is to achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth.Who is the founder of Jainism?
The founder of Jainism was Mahavira, who lived in India in the 6th century BCE. Mahavira was a prince who renounced his wealth and social position to live a life of asceticism. He taught that the way to liberation was to follow the path of ahimsa, or non-violence.What are the basic beliefs of Jainism?
The basic beliefs of Jainism are that all living beings are interconnected, that it is important to avoid harming any living creature, and that the way to liberation is to live a moral life.What are the practices of Jainism?
The practices of Jainism include vegetarianism, fasting, and other forms of self-denial. Jains also believe in the importance of meditation and prayer.What is the history of Jainism?
Jainism is one of the oldest religions in the world, and it is still practiced by millions of people today. The majority of Jains live in India, but there are also significant Jain populations in other parts of the world, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.What is the impact of Jainism on Indian culture?
Jainism has had a significant impact on Indian culture. Jain art, architecture, and literature are all highly developed. Jains have also made significant contributions to Indian science and mathematics.What is the future of Jainism?
The future of Jainism is uncertain. The religion is facing a number of challenges, including declining numbers of followers and increasing secularization. However, there are also signs of Growth in Jainism, particularly in the West. It is possible that Jainism will continue to thrive in the 21st century, but it is also possible that the religion will decline.
Which of the following is not a Jain Tirthankara?
(A) Mahavira
(B) Vardhamana
(C) Parshvanatha
(D) Gautama BuddhaThe Jains believe that the universe is eternal and cyclical. What does this mean?
(A) The universe has always existed and will always exist.
(B) The universe goes through cycles of creation, destruction, and rebirth.
(C) The universe is constantly changing.
(D) All of the above.The Jains believe that the goal of life is to achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth. How can this be achieved?
(A) By following the five vows of non-violence, non-stealing, non-possession, chastity, and truthfulness.
(B) By practicing meditation and asceticism.
(C) By studying the Jain scriptures.
(D) All of the above.The Jains have a unique caste system, known as the Varna System. What are the four varnas in the Jain Varna system?
(A) Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.
(B) Monks, nuns, laypeople, and ascetics.
(C) Tirthankaras, Ganadharas, Sravakas, and Upasakas.
(D) None of the above.The Jains have a rich and diverse culture. What are some of the most important aspects of Jain culture?
(A) Jain art and architecture
(Jains literature
(Jains music and dance
(Jains cuisine
(All of the above.The Jains have a long and proud history in India. What are some of the most important events in Jain history?
(A) The life of Mahavira
(B) The Spread of Jainism to other parts of the world
(C) The persecution of Jains by other religions
(D) All of the above.The Jains have made significant contributions to Indian society. What are some of the most important contributions of Jains to Indian society?
(A) The development of mathematics and science
(B) The promotion of non-violence and Tolerance
(C) The construction of temples and other religious buildings
(D) All of the above.The Jains are a minority Religion in India. What are some of the challenges that Jains face in India?
(A) Discrimination and persecution
(B) The loss of traditional Jain values
(C) The need to adapt to a changing world
(D) All of the above.The Jains are a vibrant and growing community around the world. What are some of the ways in which Jains are making a difference in the world?
(A) Promoting non-violence and tolerance
(B) Protecting the Environment
(C) Promoting education and social Justice
(D) All of the above.The Jains are a unique and fascinating religious community. What are some of the things that you find most interesting about Jainism?
(A) The Jain belief in non-violence
(B) The Jain emphasis on asceticism
(C) The Jain caste system
(D) The Jain contribution to Indian society
I hope these questions were helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.