JAINISM

The origin of Jainism:

• Jainism came to prominence in the 6th century B.C.E. when Vardhamana Mahavira propagated the religion.
• Jain religion is believed to have been founded by Rishabhanath who is also called Rishabhadev.
• Jains believe that there were 24 great teachers or Tirthankaras, the last of whom is Vardhamana Mahavira.

About Mahavira:

• He was born at Kundagrama near Vaisali in 599 BCE.
• His parents were Kshatriyas. His Father was Siddhartha who was the Head of Jnatrika Clan and his Mother Trishala who was the sister of Lichchhavi chief Chetaka.
• Chetaka’s daughter married Haryanka King Bimbisara which makes Mahavira a relative of the Magadhan Ruler.
• Mahavira was married to Yasoda and had a daughter Anojja or Priyadarsana.
• He renounced his home and became a wandering ascetic at the age of 30.
• He went on a truth searching journey for 12 years and spend those years practicing severe austerities, fasting and meditation.
• He is said to have attained perfect/infinite knowledge (kevalajnana) at the age of 42 on the banks of the Rijupalika river.
• It is believed that through kevalajnana, he conquered misery and happiness.
• Because of this conquest, he came to be known as ‘Mahavira’ or The Great Hero or ‘Jina’ i.e, the conqueror and his followers were known as ‘Jainas’.
• He passed away and became a Siddha (fully liberated) at the age of 72 in 527 BCE at Pavapuri near Patna.

The ideals of Jainism:

• Jainism rejects the idea of a creator of the world (God) as well as the authority of the Vedas.
• The Jains believe in karma and in the transmigration of the soul.
• The philosophy of Jains believe that salvation or nirvana comes on getting rid of the cycle of birth and rebirth and can be attained by leading a pure life guided by the three-fold path of right faith, right knowledge and right conduct.
• The right conduct involves not to steal (Asteya), non-possession (Aparigraha), nonviolence (Ahimsa), not to lie and control of the senses (Bramacharya).

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