Jainism is one of the world's oldest religions, originating in ancient India. It is centered on the principle of non-violence toward all living beings and the pursuit of spiritual liberation through ethical conduct and self-discipline. The religion traces its teachings through twenty-four spiritual guides called Tirthankaras, with Mahavira being the most well-known as the twenty-fourth Tirthankara.
The three fundamental principles of Jainism form the foundation of this ancient faith. First is Ahimsa, or non-violence, which extends beyond physical harm to include mental and emotional harm toward all living beings. Second is Anekantavada, the doctrine of multiple viewpoints, teaching that truth can be perceived differently from various perspectives. Third is Aparigraha, or non-attachment, which encourages freedom from excessive material possessions and desires.
The ultimate goal of Jainism is Moksha, or liberation from the endless cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. To achieve this spiritual freedom, Jains follow the Three Jewels, known as Triratna. These are Right Faith, which means having correct understanding of spiritual reality; Right Knowledge, which involves acquiring true spiritual wisdom; and Right Conduct, which requires ethical behavior and following Jain practices. Together, these three jewels guide the soul toward ultimate liberation.
Jainism is one of the world's oldest religions, originating in India around the sixth century BCE. Founded by Mahavira, it is built upon the fundamental principle of Ahimsa, or non-violence. Jainism provides a path to spiritual liberation through ethical living, emphasizing truth, non-violence, and compassion toward all living beings.
The foundation of Jainism rests on five main vows or Vratas. First is Ahimsa, complete non-violence toward all living beings. Second is Satya, truthfulness in speech and action. Third is Asteya, not taking what is not given. Fourth is Brahmacharya, celibacy and control of sensual pleasures. Fifth is Aparigraha, non-attachment to material possessions. These vows guide Jains toward spiritual purification and liberation.
Tirthankaras are enlightened spiritual teachers who help others cross the ocean of suffering and achieve liberation. In this cosmic cycle, there are twenty-four Tirthankaras. The most well-known is Mahavira, the twenty-fourth Tirthankara, who was born as Prince Vardhamana, renounced worldly life at age thirty, achieved enlightenment called Kevala Jnana, and preached for thirty years. Parsva, the twenty-third Tirthankara, preceded Mahavira by about two hundred and fifty years and is another key teacher in the Jain tradition.
Jain practices center around strict adherence to non-violence, including complete vegetarianism and careful avoidance of harm to even microscopic life. Practitioners engage in regular fasting, meditation, and follow five main vows including non-violence, truthfulness, and non-stealing. Jainism is divided into two main sects: the Digambara, meaning sky-clad, who practice stricter asceticism, and the Shvetambara, meaning white-clad, who follow somewhat less strict ascetic practices while maintaining the core principles.
To summarize what we have learned about Jainism: It is an ancient Indian religion that places non-violence at its core. Practitioners follow five main vows that guide ethical living. Spiritual teachers called Tirthankaras, like Mahavira, provide guidance on the path to enlightenment. The religion has two main sects with different levels of ascetic practice, but all seek the ultimate goal of liberation from the cycle of rebirth through ethical living and spiritual purification.