Brief Introduction to Jainism

Author(s): Bipin Doshi
Publisher: Jain Academy Educational Research Centre Promotion Trust

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Meaning of word
“Jain” The word Jain is derived from "Jina", which means the one that is victorious over the selfpassions like anger, ego, deceit and greed. They are one having
neither attachment nor hatred Ranakpur Jain Temple
to anyone and devoid of any
possession whatsoever. The followers of such Jinas are called Jains. Jainism is one of the oldest religion in the world. Jains traditionally trace their history through a succession of twenty-four propagators of their faith known as Tirthankaras with Rishabh as the first and Mahaveera as the last of the current era. Unlike many religions Jains don't have one God but they worship all 24 Tirthankaras.
Jain Community There are around 6,000,000 + followers of Jainism with the majority population based in India with some diaspora population mainly in UK, Belgium, USA, East Africa, UAE and Australia. Though very small in population it is one of the wealthiest, educated and most influential community in India. Historically they have enjoyed the vital position as ministers and treasures in ancient Indian Kingdoms. Jains don't believe in religious conversion but wherever they have gone they have taken their philosophy and have influenced others about their doctrine. One can accept Jain religion by his own will and conduct without any formal rituals.