Jainism

Jainism, or Jain Dharma, is an ancient Indian religion (6th century BCE) emphasizing nonviolence (ahimsa), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), and non-absolutism (anekantavada) to liberate the soul from karma and reincarnation.

Founded by 24 Tirthankaras, it teaches that every living being has an eternal soul with the potential for omniscience, encouraging self-effort for salvation, not divine intervention.

Key Aspects of Jainism

• Ahimsa (Nonviolence): This is the core principle, requiring extreme care to avoid harming any living creature, including micro-organisms, which influences strict vegetarianism.

• Soul and Liberation (Moksha): Jains believe the soul is trapped in a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara) due to karma. The goal is to free the soul to reach a state of eternal bliss (moksha) through asceticism, fasting, and right conduct.

• The Tirthankaras: Twenty-four enlightened teachers (ford-makers) guide followers. Lord Mahavira was the last Tirthankara.

• Anekantavada: The doctrine of "many-sidedness" or non-absolutism, promoting tolerance and understanding of diverse perspectives.

• Two Major Sects: The community is divided into Digambara (monks who wear no clothes) and Svetambara (monks who wear white clothes).

• Atheistic Framework: Jainism does not believe in a creator god, focusing instead on individual self-discipline to conquer inner enemies like greed, anger, and pride.

Jainism originated as a reform movement against Vedic ritualism and remains a significant, though small,, religion in India today.