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• Jainism to me means leading a simple & good life following the teachings of the Jinas (omniscients) or Tirthankars who preach the 5 principles - Ahimsa (non violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness) in order to attain Moksh (liberation). (Ayesha Samji, 13, London)
It's a religion, and when we follow it we become "better" people i.e. it advises us to be kind. It's also a way of going to Moksha. (Prashil Shah, 14, London)
I have always found that Jainism is more of a philosophy than a religion. It is a concept that guides our lives, not just spiritually, but physically and mentally as well. It is sometimes grueling to be a Jain in American society, where most people eat meat, wear leather, and squander their money on trivial electronics. Jainism is the fence between that world and ours, and keeps us from descending into that world of materialism and carnivory. While its rules may seem strict and frustrating, I believe that Jainism makes us better, more compassionate people, and makes us more contentious of the effects of our actions on the world around us. I find that Jainism empowers its followers more than any other religion; because it argues that each soul governs its own destiny. Many Americans and believers of other religions may convince themselves that they have free will, yet they pray to their gods to bring them luck, or riches, or fame, and the prevent disease, death, and age. Jainism says that no outside force, no god, can bring these things to us or keep them away. We are responsible for our own actions, and must accept the consequences of the choices we make. (Monika Kothari, 15, Canton, MI)
• Jainism is not only a religion; Jainism is both a philosophy and a way of living. Jainism allows me to practice what I believe in. Throughout the years, looking at the lives of all of my friends, I realize how different these religions are, yet how similar too. I have experienced life itself differently than any of my friends through my religion. Similarities in religion have brought the world together, and differences have torn them apart, but this is not always the case. My community, school and friends have come together and shared our knowledge to those around us. This is how I live life as a Jain, and what it means to me.
(Khushi Desai, 14, West Bloomfield, MI)
What is 'peace'?
• Peace is when you attain mukti. Mukti is when you have freedom from the cycle of birth and death. Peace is when you have freedom from all of the worldly matters. You don't have to worry, because you don't care about material things. You have no burden on your soul from karmas and attachments. One is at peace of mind and is absolutely worriless about everything. Then, the soul is pure, clean, and unburdened. (Shailavi Jain, 11, Dallas, TX)
14th Biennial JAINA Convention 2007
Jain Education International
200
For Private & Personal Use Only
similarities in religion have brought the world together, and differences have torn them
apart, but this is not always the case.
My community, school and friends have come together and shared our knowledge to those around us. This is
how I live life as a Jain, and what it means to me.
PEACE THROUGH DIALOGUE
www.jainelibrary.org
