Popular Practices under Jainism

Jains are a group of people who follow the teachings of Mahavira, a 6th-century BCE Indian prince who renounced his wealth and social status to live a life of simplicity and non-violence. Jains believe that the universe is eternal and that all living beings are interconnected. They also believe that the goal of life is to achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

Jains have a number of practices that they believe help them to achieve moksha. These practices include:

• Ahimsa: Ahimsa, or non-violence, is the most important principle in Jainism. Jains believe that all living beings are sacred and that it is wrong to harm them in any way. This includes not only physical violence, but also verbal abuse and even thoughts of violence.
• Satya: Satya, or truthfulness, is another important principle in Jainism. Jains believe that it is important to always tell the truth, even if it is difficult. They also believe that it is important to avoid lying, cheating, and stealing.
• Asteya: Asteya, or non-stealing, is another important principle in Jainism. Jains believe that it is wrong to take anything that does not belong to them. This includes not only physical objects, but also ideas and information.
• Brahmacharya: Brahmacharya, or chastity, is another important principle in Jainism. Jains believe that it is important to control their sexual desires. This includes not only abstaining from sexual activity, but also avoiding thoughts and actions that could lead to sexual activity.
• Aparigraha: Aparigraha, or non-attachment, is another important principle in Jainism. Jains believe that it is important to live a simple life and to avoid attachment to material possessions. They also believe that it is important to avoid attachment to people and relationships.

In addition to these five principles, Jains also practice a number of other rituals and observances. These include:

• Ritual bathing: Jains believe that it is important to bathe regularly to cleanse themselves of both physical and spiritual impurities.
• Fasting: Jains often fast, or eat very little, on certain days of the week or month. This is done as a way of purifying the body and mind.
• Prayer: Jains pray to their gods and goddesses for guidance and protection.
• Meditation: Jains meditate to calm the mind and to focus on their spiritual goals.

Jains also have a number of dietary restrictions. They do not eat meat, eggs, or dairy products. They also avoid eating root vegetables, as these are believed to contain living organisms.

Jains believe that by following these practices, they can achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth. They believe that moksha is the ultimate goal of life and that it is the only way to achieve true happiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main belief of Jainism?

The main belief of Jainism is that all living beings are sacred and that it is wrong to harm them in any way. This includes not only physical violence, but also verbal abuse and even thoughts of violence.

What are the five main principles of Jainism?

The five main principles of Jainism are ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truthfulness), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (chastity), and aparigraha (non-attachment).

What are some of the practices that Jains follow?

Some of the practices that Jains follow include ritual bathing, fasting, prayer, meditation, and dietary restrictions.

What is the goal of life in Jainism?

The goal of life in Jainism is to achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

MCQs

What is the main belief of Jainism?

• (A) All living beings are sacred.
• (B) It is wrong to harm any living being.
• (C) The goal of life is to achieve moksha.
• (D) All of the above.

What are the five main principles of Jainism?

• (A) Ahimsa, satya, asteya, brahmacharya, and aparigraha.
• (B) Non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, chastity, and non-attachment.
• (C) Ritual bathing, fasting, prayer, meditation, and dietary restrictions.
• (D) Moksha, liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

The dietary practice that many followers of this tradition adhere to is:

• (a) Veganism
• (b) Lacto-vegetarianism
• (c) Pescatarianism
• (d) Flexitarianism