Jainism, one of the world’s oldest religions, offers a profound path of non-violence, self-discipline, and spiritual liberation. With a history tracing back over two and a half millennia, Jain philosophical ideas and ethical teachings deeply influence millions of adherents across India and worldwide. This article provides an in-depth look at the foundations, practices, and legacy of Jainism – the gentle faith that continues to inspire humanity to live peacefully and consciously.
Foundations of Jainism
Historical Roots Jainism has ancient roots in the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished around 3000 BCE. But the traditional date for the birth of Jainism is the 6th century BCE, when Mahavira (“Great Hero”) gained enlightenment and became the last of the Tirthankaras. Tirthankaras were supremely enlightened beings who formed the basis of the Jain faith. Rishabhanatha is believed to be the first, having lived millions of years ago according to Jain cosmology. The 24 Tirthankaras laid the ideological and ethical foundations of Jainism.
Three Jewels of Jainism Jain ethics and philosophy center around three foundational principles – ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), and aparigraha (non-attachment). Together known as the “three jewels”, these beliefs shape the worldview and way of life of Jain practitioners. Ahimsa entails avoiding harm to any living being in thought, word or action. Satya emphasizes truthfulness in all forms, including self-honesty. Aparigraha involves detachment from material and sensory pleasures to achieve spiritual liberation.
Jain Cosmology
Jains believe the universe was never created, nor will it ever cease to exist. Time is divided into Utsarpinis (progressive half-cycles) when conditions improve, and Avasarpinis (regressive half-cycles) when they decline. Each Utsarpini and Avasarpini is divided into six aras, and we are currently in the fifth ara of the Avasarpini phase. The Jain worldview is populated by an infinite number of eternal jiva (souls), that become embodied within the cycle of rebirth depending on their karmas.
The Jain Way of Life
Ahimsa in Practice Jains take the principle of ahimsa very seriously, and strive to avoid harming any living being in their thoughts or actions. Many are vegetarians or vegans, and some even avoid eating root vegetables to minimize damage to microscopic organisms in the soil. Some Jains wear face masks to avoid inhaling tiny insects. Acts of compassion towards all life forms are encouraged. Ahimsa also entails reducing negative emotions that hurt others or oneself at a mental level.
Anekantavada: The Doctrine of Non-Absolutism Anekantavada refers to the Jain doctrine of non-absolutism and acceptance of multiple viewpoints. No single perspective exhaustively encapsulates the truth. Adopting the slogan “Perhaps,” Jains consider others’ perspectives with empathy and openness. This doctrine promotes intellectual humility, tolerance of contradictions in thinking, and peaceful coexistence of contradictory worldviews.
Asceticism and Lay Followers The Jain community comprises lay followers and ascetics. Ascetics uphold the faith through strict spiritual practices, studying scriptures, and teaching Jain values. They embrace an austere, wandering lifestyle renouncing all possessions including clothing. Lay followers practice Jain values while engaging in worldly occupations. Both pursue spiritual progress through the three jewels: ahimsa, satya and aparigraha.
The Path to Liberation
Three Jewels in Jain Practices Ahimsa manifests through compassionate veganism, while satya entails honesty. Aparigraha is practiced by limiting possessions and avoiding wastefulness or hoarding. Jains also mark Mahavira’s teachings through meditation, fasting, and giving. Some ascetic lineages take up solitude, nudity, and penances like standing for long periods. All practices aim to purify the soul and build virtues.
The Doctrine of Karma Karma is central to Jain soteriology. Accumulated karma particles obstruct the innate qualities of the soul. Merit-based karma leads to joy; sinful karma causes suffering. By practicing non-violence and self-control, Jains seek to minimize karmic accretion and shed past karma. This reduces the soul’s future rebirths so it can achieve liberation.
The Pursuit of Moksha Jainism’s ultimate spiritual goal is moksha – liberation from the karmic cycle of birth and rebirth. When all karmic burdens drop, the soul ascends to the apex of the universe, reaching its pure omniscient form in infinite bliss. Jains thus progress on the path of self-realization through renunciation, self-discipline, study, and cultivation of inner peace.
Jain Festivals and Rituals
Paryushana: The Festival of Forgiveness The holy festival of Paryushana occurs annually during August-September for eight or ten days. Jains repent misdeeds, seek forgiveness, meditate, and take vows of study and service. They often fast, give to charity, and visit temples. The last day involves the Jain ritual of Samvatsari Pratikramana, where communities gather for prayers, hymns and the seeking of mutual forgiveness.
Jain Rituals and Worship Jain laity venerates images or idols of the Tirthankaras, especially Mahavira. Temples are built as sacred pilgrimage sites housing these images. Ritual worship includes bathing the idols, presenting flowers and rice, reciting mantras and hymns. Major rituals involve seeking forgiveness from all living beings during the Pratikramana ceremony. Jains celebrate annual festivals marking milestones in Tirthankaras’ lives.
Jainism’s Impact and Challenges
Jainism Beyond India Jains have a significant diaspora in North America, Britain, Africa and elsewhere, propagating Jain values globally. Vestiges of Jainism in South India exist as strong cultural influences seen in architecture, festivals and literature. Outside India, Jain refugees have built temples in Singapore, Britain and Kenya. Wherever they live, Jains impact society through charities, animal welfare and emphasis on non-violence.
Challenges and Contemporary Perspectives Modern life poses challenges to applying Jain principles fully – from involuntary violence against microorganisms to maintaining monastic nudity. Contemporary Jains have adapted by accepting compromised practices like modest nun attire and misgivings around total veganism. Philosophically, Jainism also faces critiques for supporting inequality by sanctifying austerity. However, the eco-friendliness of Jain lifestyles and emphasis on compassion resonate widely with modern environmental and social justice movements.
Conclusion
At its core, Jainism offers a profound path guiding the individual to live ethically, realize inner divinity and attain spiritual liberation. The universal values of non-violence, truthfulness and self-restraint reveal an ancient yet highly relevant formula for leading lives of purpose and moral responsibility. By illuminating the Jain principles, history and rituals, this exploration uncovers a humane and woke faith – one that enriches us with a model of compassionate coexistence in a fragmented world.