Jainism And Its History

Author(s): Sagarmal Jain
Publisher: Research Foundation for Jainology

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The images of other Tīrthankaras are of later period, i.e. after second-third century AD. This suggests that the concept of twentyfour Tīrthankaras came into existence only after the third century. With the development of the concept of Tīrthankaras the system of their worship (Puja-Paddhati) also came into prominence.
Jainism emerged as an ascetic religion. Initially it laid great stress on austerity and meditation. It was only a religion of self purification. In the Āgamas there are no mentions of any ceremonial performances or of any system of idol worship or of religious adoration asking for the grace of God. In the Jaina tradition, for the first time the six essential duties (Sadāvasyakas) were introduced. These are practice for equanimity (Sāmāyika), praising twenty-four Tīrthankaras (Caturvimsati Stavana), paying respect to Ācāryas (Vandana), atonement of blemished activities (Pratikramana), mortification (Kāyotsarga) and taking some vow (Pratyākhyāna).
Among the 24 Tirthankars, we have detail information regarding Rsabhadeva, Aristanemi, Pārsvanātha and Mahāvīra only. Further we shall discuss regarding the Pārsvanātha and Mahāvīra.
THE ORIGIN OF THE ŚRAMAŅA STREAM
Human existence is bi-dimensional and filled with selfcontradictions. By nature it is centered on two different and contradictory poles. It is neither body alone nor consciousness alone instead it is a unique combination of the two. Consequently it has to function on two different planes. At the bodily level, it functions on the basis of passions and desires and is controlled by mechanical laws. But at the conscious or rational level, it is governed by conscience where there is freedom of will. At the
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