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01 INTRODUCTION TO JAINISM
01 - Introduction to Jainism
The subcontinent of India, one of the cradles of civilization, is also the birthplace of the greatest ancient religious traditions of the world, which include: Hinduism (Sanätan Dharma or Vedic religion), Buddhism, Jainism, as well as the young religion of Sikhism. The Jain religion and its philosophy being one of the oldest, predating recorded history as referenced in Hindu scriptures, has become one of the essential spiritual traditions of the South Asian religious fabric. Jainism is a way of life based on ahimsa (non-violence), compassion, and simple living. Jain philosophy is ennobling and optimistic, where the soul of man and woman evolves to Godhood when the soul purifies itself by removing its impurities such as anger, ego, deceit, and greed, arising out of attachment and aversion. This process is explained in the philosophy section of this book. It embraces ancient techniques and philosophies handed down by the Jinas, who are also known as Arihantas or Tirthankaras. These are the main prophets in the Jain faith numbering twenty-four. The lineage can be traced back to prehistoric times.
Lord Mahävir was the last Tirthankara (599 BC to 527 BC), and Lord Pärshvanath was his immediate predecessor (850 BC). Lord Ädinäth was the first Tirthankara in what is considered prehistoric time.
Jains believe in the philosophy of karma, reincarnation of the worldly soul, heaven and hell as a reward and punishment for one's deeds, and liberation (Nirvana or Moksha) of the self or soul from life's misery of birth and death in a way similar to the Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. Though there are multiple similarities in these South Asian religions, some fundamental differences do exist.
The cardinal principle of Jainism is Ahimsa. Jains believe that every living being is a master of his/her own destiny. They rely a great deal on self-effort and self-initiative for both their worldly requirements and their liberation. The Jain scriptures also state that the universe and all its entities, such as soul and matter, are eternal (there is no beginning or end), no one has created them, and no one can destroy them. All entities continuously change their form.
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JAINISM AND SPIRITUAL AWAKENING
