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JAINA CONVENTION 2011
spokes of the wheel represent the eightfold path.
Jainism:
It is one of the world's oldest living religions. It has no beginning and it predates recorded history based upon religious scriptures.
• In Jainism there is no creator God, so it has no union with God.
• The ultimate goal of Jainism is Moksha or Liberation or to become a perfected soul known as Siddha or God.
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The two main sects are Digambar (sky clad) and Shvetambar (white cloth).
The main scriptures are Jain Agam Sutras.
About 2500 years ago Lord Mahavir, the 24th and the last Tirthankar of this era revived the Jain philosophy that was preached by 23 Tirthankars before him. Jainism places great stress on NonViolence, multiplicity of views, NonPossessiveness, penance, yoga, and monasticism to achieve liberation. Our actions of body, mind and speech bind us with Karma. Moksha is attained when all layers of Karma are removed. Moksha is defined as liberation, an endless calm, freedom from desire and ego, and freedom from cycle of rebirth. The most important symbol of Jainism is the "palm of a hand" and it means "do not be afraid". Life is driven by karmic bondage.
Sikhism:
It is founded about 500 years again in Punjab, India by Guru Nanak.
• The ultimate goal of Sikhism is in Moksha or salvation which is a union with God.
• The main sects are Khalsa, Ram Raiyas, Mandharis and Nirankaris.
"Live and Help Live" The main scripture is "Adi Granth"
• To lead humans to the goal of Moksha, Sikhism follows a path of Japa and hymns.
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• The word Sikhism is derived from Sikka meaning disciple. The movement was founded by Guru Nanak who sought reconciliation of the Hindu and Muslim faiths in a middle path that embraced both.
• Sikh gurus adopt five symbols: wear white cloths (Purity), keep sword (Bravery) wear Iron bracelet (Morality), never cut hair and beard (Renunciation) and keep comb in hair. (Cleanliness).
The most important symbols of Sikhism are swords, shield and dagger. They represent the martial spirit of the community.
Christianity:
It is founded about 2000 years ago. Christianity is based on the teachings of Jesus Christ, believed to be the son of God.
The ultimate goal of Christianity is eternal life with God in heaven. The main sects are Roman Catholic, Easter Orthodox and Protestant. Protestant has 2000 smaller sects, like Lutherans, Presbyterians, Baptists, Methodists, etc
The main scripture is Bible which consists of Old Testament and New Testament.
Christianity places stress on acceptance of Jesus as God and Savior, on good conduct, compassion and Service to humanity, faith and preparation for final judgment.
The soul is embodied for a single lifetime and upon death, enters heaven or hell according to its earthly actions
