Jainism originated in north India from the Vedic culture, around the fifth century B.C. It is a branch out of Hinduism, tracing back to the Indus Valley civilization which flourished in the region from around 2500 BCE to 1900 BC.
Historic Overview of Jainism
The Vedic culture mainly centered on rituals which preserved the health and prosperity of individuals, political stability, and cosmic equilibrium.
Rituals were performed by Brahmans, who are members of the priestly caste. They sometimes involved animal sacrifices commissioned by high-caste households. These elites monopolized religious authority and had high importance in Indian society.
Starting in the seventh century B.C., many ‘renouncers’ of Vedic tradition emerged; Jainism and Buddhism being the main ones. They sought to break the emphasis of religious practices from external rituals of the Brahmans to internal change, centered on its renunciation and asceticism.
Jainism is based on the teachings of Mahavira, who was a contemporary of Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha). Mahavira is regarded among Jains as the twenty-fourth jina (conquerer) of the last cosmic cycle. These twenty-four jinas are born and preach during the third and fourth phases of each half of the cosmic cycle. A jina or tithankara means “ford-maker.” They are religious teachers who Jains believe have attained enlightenment and omniscience by conquering samsara. Samsara is what Vedic culture believes to be the endless cycle of birth and rebirths.
There is also historical evidence of the twenty-third jina, Parshva, who lived in Varanasi about 250 years before Mahavira.
Who Is Mahavira in Jainism
Mahavira lived toward the end of the Vedic period. He lived and preached near Patna, in the state of Bihar. His death is debated by historians and schools of practicioners. He died at age 72.
Historians date his death around 425 B.C.; Digambara Jains believe he died in 510 B.C.; whereas, Shvetambara Jains place the date at 527 B.C.
Mahavira’s life is recorded in Jain scriptures, with both sects of Jainism differing on his history. His teachings are said to have been preserved in the book, The Twelve-Limbed Basket. Due to his ascetic lifestyle, he relied on alms from villages for sustenance, even though he was often abused by the people.
After twelve years of dedication to non-violence, extreme fasting, and continual meditation on the nature of the soul, Mahavira attained enlightenment and omniscience. It is at this point in Jain history that Mahavira began his career as the twenty-fourth jina.
It is believed that his teachings in the assemblies were that of divine work. He would take center stage surrounded in concentric rings by his congregation. He would always face east, but in order for everyone to hear and see him, it is said the gods replicated his image to face each direction. Digambara Jainism believed that his body produced divine sounds during his speaking, which his disciples would translate for the congregation.
Beliefs in Jainism
Jainism, like Buddhism, believes that all living beings have a soul. Jainism teaches the concept of samsara, or reincarnation — the belief that the soul is reborn into a new body after death. According to Jainism, the cycle of reincarnation is governed by the law of karma, which states that a person’s actions in this life will determine their fate in their next life.
The only way that this cycle of reincarnation can be broken is if the individual adopts the lifestyle of an extreme ascetic. Asceticism is a severe self-discipline and avoidance of all forms of sensual pleasures. It is typically done for religious reasons or in pursuing spiritual goals. Monasticism, or monk-hood, plays an important role in Jainism, because it values asceticism.
Because of their belief in reincarnation, Jains hold to a strict code of ethics and centers it on a principle of non-violence (ahimsa). This forbids any harm done to all creatures since they are worthy of respect and compassion and go through samsara. Due to that belief, those who practice Jainism are strict vegetarians.
Jains also place a strong emphasis on knowledge and learning. They believe that the path to enlightenment and spiritual liberation involves gaining knowledge and understanding of the true nature of reality. In order to achieve this spiritual growth and enlightenment, Jains follow a number of spiritual practices, including meditation and asceticism.
In addition to these beliefs, Jainism also teaches the importance of ethical conduct and self-control. Jains follow a number of ethical principles, including: honesty, non-attachment, and non-possessiveness, in order to cultivate a peaceful and harmonious life.
Sacred Writings of Jainism
Jainism has a variety of religious texts which have been seen as sacred. Some are ancient, whereas most are written by more recent saints. In Jainism, the sacredness of a text is not based on its age, but by the value of its contents, and use during worship.
The Shvetambara Canon
This sect of Jainism believes that their canon of scripture came directly from The Twelve-Limbed Basket. These sacred writings are a collection of Mahavira’s oral teachings written and compiled by senior ascetics during three councils. These councils got together to record what they could remember of Mahavira’s teachings. The first council took place in Patna, 160 years after Mahavira’s death. The second council took place 827 years after his death, and was held simultaneously at Valabhi in the west, and Mathura, in the north. The third council was held in Valabhi, during the first half of the fifth century. That council officially closed this canon of scripture.
The Digambara Canon
This sect of Jainism believes that Mahavira’s teachings were lost by the second century A.D. During the second century, a text originated from the recollections of the ascetic Dharasena, called the Scripture of Six Parts. Not too long after that, another ascetic named Gunabhadra, wrote the Treatise on the Passions. These are the only texts which Digambara Jains accept.
The Kalpasutra
This scripture describes how Indra, the king of the gods, arranged for Mahavira to be transported to his mother’s womb. This was after Mahavira’s previous embodiment as a celestial being. Vedic culture views holy men as always coming from Brahman; whereas, the Jinas are always born in the caste of noblemen and warriors.
The Tattvarthasutra
The opening phrase in the Tattvarthasutra states the essence of Jain doctrine. This triad is known as “The Three Jewels of Jainism.”
- Correct faith
- Correct knowledge
- Correct conduct.
The Tattvarthasutra is the only text accepted by both sect of Jainism. It was written during the fourth or fifth century A.D. by the ascetic Umasvati. It is the most significant text to be written in Sanskrit, and the first text organized in a single volume containing the main aspects of Jain doctrine.
Out of these Three Jewels come the Five Abstinences:
What are the Five Abstinences in Jainism
1. Ahimsa (non-violence):
Ahimsa is the core principle of Jainism, emphasizing the practice of non-violence in thought, word, and deed. This principle calls for the cultivation of compassion, understanding, and respect towards all living beings, regardless of their size or significance. Jains take great care to avoid causing harm, which often extends to adopting a vegetarian or vegan diet, as well as being mindful of their actions in daily life.
2. Satya (truthfulness):
Satya is the commitment to truthfulness and honesty in all aspects of life. Jains strive to speak the truth, avoid deception, and maintain integrity in their actions. This principle encourages the development of trust and transparency in relationships and fosters a harmonious, supportive community. However, Satya should be practiced with consideration for Ahimsa, as speaking the truth should not cause harm or distress to others.
3. Asteya (not stealing):
Asteya is the principle of refraining from theft or misappropriation of others’ possessions, whether material or intellectual. Jains are expected to respect the property and rights of others and to be content with their own possessions. This principle also implies avoiding the desire to acquire what belongs to others, promoting a sense of fairness and justice in social interactions.
4. Aparigraha (non-acquisition):
Aparigraha refers to the practice of non-attachment and non-possessiveness, urging individuals to let go of material wealth and worldly desires. By embracing simplicity and limiting their possessions, Jains can focus on spiritual growth and self-improvement rather than being consumed by materialistic pursuits. Aparigraha also encourages the practice of self-restraint, teaching followers to be content with what they have and not to seek more than what is necessary.
5. Brahmacarya (chaste living):
Brahmacarya is the practice of chastity and self-control, which involves the regulation of one’s sensual and sexual desires. For Jain monks and nuns, this principle implies a life of complete celibacy. Lay Jains, however, are expected to exercise restraint and adhere to a monogamous relationship within the bounds of marriage. The practice of Brahmacarya helps individuals develop self-discipline, enabling them to channel their energy towards spiritual growth and inner transformation.
Practices and Rituals
- Asceticism: Jainism places great emphasis on ascetic practices, such as fasting, meditation, and self-discipline, as a means to purify the soul and attain spiritual liberation.
- Prayers and Meditation: Jains engage in daily prayers, recitation of sacred texts, and meditation as a means of spiritual development.
- Fasting: Fasting is an important aspect of Jain practice, with many Jains observing regular fasts or more extended periods of fasting during festivals like Paryushana.
- Rituals: Jain rituals include the performance of daily worship (Puja), making offerings to Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers), and practicing rituals that mark significant events in a person’s life, such as birth and marriage.
- Pilgrimage: Jains undertake pilgrimages to sacred sites, such as Palitana, Shravanabelagola, and Ranakpur, which are home to important temples and shrines dedicated to the Tirthankaras.
These practices and rituals serve to connect the followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism to their respective faiths and provide them with a sense of spiritual connection, community, and purpose. In each tradition, rituals and practices often vary based on regional, cultural, and sectarian differences. However, the central themes and goals of these practices remain consistent within each faith.
Frequently Asked Questions on Jainism
Q: What is Jainism?
A: Jainism is an ancient religion originating in India that teaches the path to spiritual purity and enlightenment through disciplined, nonviolent living. The central tenets of Jainism include nonviolence (Ahimsa), truthfulness (Satya), not stealing (Asteya), non-acquisition (Aparigraha), and chaste living (Brahmacarya).
Q: Who founded Jainism?
A: Jainism was founded by Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) in the Jain tradition. He was born in the 6th century BCE and achieved spiritual liberation after a long period of meditation and asceticism.
Q: What are the main principles of Jainism?
A: The main principles of Jainism are Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (not stealing), Aparigraha (non-acquisition), and Brahmacarya (chaste living). These principles guide Jains in their pursuit of spiritual purity and liberation.
Q: What are the two main sects of Jainism?
A: The two main sects of Jainism are the Digambaras and the Svetambaras. They have some differences in beliefs and practices, such as the interpretation of scriptures, monastic clothing, and the role of women in the religious community.
Q: What do Jains believe about the soul?
A: Jains believe that every living being has a soul (jiva) that is eternal and possesses the potential for spiritual liberation. The soul is bound by karma, which is accumulated through actions and thoughts. By practicing non-violence, self-discipline, and spiritual purification, a soul can attain liberation (moksha) and be free from the cycle of birth and rebirth.
Q: What is the role of karma in Jainism?
A: In Jainism, karma is the consequence of one’s actions, thoughts, and intentions. It is believed to bind the soul to the cycle of birth and rebirth. By following the principles of Jainism and engaging in spiritual practices, one can purify their soul and shed karmic bonds, ultimately attaining liberation.
Q: Do Jains believe in God?
A: Jainism does not have a concept of a single, omnipotent creator god. Instead, Jains revere Tirthankaras, who are liberated souls that have attained spiritual perfection and serve as role models and teachers. Jains believe that anyone can achieve liberation and become a Tirthankara through disciplined spiritual practice.
Q: What is the significance of vegetarianism in Jainism?
A: Vegetarianism is an essential aspect of the practice of non-violence (Ahimsa) in Jainism. By abstaining from consuming meat, Jains avoid causing harm to animals and minimize the impact of their actions on other living beings. Some Jains follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet that also excludes root vegetables, as their harvesting can cause harm to insects and other organisms living in the soil.
For Further Study
“A Brief Introduction to Jainism and Sikhism” by Christopher Partridge [Check it out on Amazon]
“World Religions: The great faiths explored & explained” by John Bowker [Check it out on Amazon]
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