Jainism

  1. Founding Figures: Jainism was founded by spiritual teachers called Tirthankaras, with Lord Rishabha being the first and Lord Mahavira being the 24th and most prominent.
  2. Non-Theistic: Jainism is non-theistic; it does not believe in a creator god.
  3. Ahimsa: The core principle of Jainism is ahimsa, or non-violence, which extends to all living beings.
  4. Vegetarianism: Jains are strict vegetarians, avoiding harm to animals by not consuming meat, fish, or eggs.
  5. Asceticism: Many Jains choose to live an ascetic lifestyle, renouncing material possessions and leading a life of simplicity and self-discipline.
  6. Five Vows: Jain monks and nuns follow the five vows: ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truthfulness), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (celibacy), and aparigraha (non-possessiveness).
  7. Karma: Jains believe in the accumulation of karma through actions, which affects the soul's progress toward liberation.
  8. Moksha: The ultimate goal in Jainism is achieving moksha, liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
  9. Jain Scriptures: The Jain canon includes texts like the Agamas and Angas, which contain teachings and principles.
  10. Three Jewels: Jains take refuge in three jewels: right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.
  11. Digambara and Svetambara: Jainism is divided into two major sects, with the Digambara sect practicing nudity and asceticism and the Svetambara sect allowing monks to wear white robes.
  12. Tirtha and Pilgrimages: Jains visit pilgrimage sites, or tirthas, which hold religious significance. One famous tirtha is Shikharji.
  13. Jain Temples: Jain temples are known for their intricate architecture, often featuring idols and carvings of Tirthankaras.
  14. Jain Symbol: The Jain symbol is the "Swastika," symbolizing well-being and good luck.
  15. Panch Kalyanak: Jains celebrate five auspicious events in the lives of Tirthankaras: conception, birth, renunciation, enlightenment, and liberation.
  16. Samavasarana: The preaching assembly is an essential concept in Jainism, where Tirthankaras deliver sermons to both monks and laypeople.
  17. Jain Festivals: Mahavir Jayanti, Paryushana, and Diwali are some of the important Jain festivals.
  18. Anekantavada: This doctrine teaches the importance of multiple perspectives and non-absolutism in understanding the truth.
  19. Syadvada: Syadvada is a philosophical tool for expressing the multi-sided nature of truth, often summarized as "perhaps."
  20. Acharya: Acharyas are respected Jain spiritual teachers and scholars who lead monastic communities.
  21. Jain Art and Literature: Jainism has contributed significantly to Indian art, with illustrated manuscripts and temple sculptures depicting Tirthankaras and other spiritual figures.
  22. Jain Dietary Restrictions: In addition to vegetarianism, Jains avoid certain root vegetables and fruits, as uprooting them may harm small organisms.
  23. Compassion for All Beings: Jains practice compassion not only toward humans but also toward all living beings, including insects and plants.
  24. Jain Education: Jain institutions promote education, both religious and secular, and have played a role in preserving ancient knowledge.
  25. Global Jain Community: Jainism has followers around the world, with significant communities in India, the United States, Canada, and other countries.

Jainism is a religion that emphasizes spiritual development, ethical conduct, and non-violence, making it a unique and influential tradition in the religious landscape.

Short Text

Understand the teachings and principles of Jainism, another significant ancient Indian religious tradition

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