Jainism For Beginners Level 01

Author(s): Sayampurnashreeji
Publisher: Sayampurnashreeji

Page 21

Vas
Heavenly Being
Human Beings
Animals and
Hellish Beings
2. hrim
- 4. swastika
The word Hrim is a seed mantra. It is called I Hrimkar mantra. It is a mystical symbol representing the invisible sound, infinity & divine energy of the 24 Tirthankars. While meditating on Hrim, one can experience the sublimating energy of Tirthankars.
The Swastika is considered as an I auspicious and a pious symbol. The red arms of the swastika represent the four possible states (gatis) of rebirth : human, heaven, hell and animal.
1. Human beings (Manushya)
Jains believe that one can attain liberation only by being born as human being, Humans have the ability to think and reason. Their ability to eliminate karma through self-control (Sanyam), austerity (Tapa) and meditation can lead them to liberation.
3. arham
2. Heavenly beings (Devas)
The word ARHAM is a mantra
representing all vowel and consonant sounds used in the Sanskrit alphabet. The first vowel in the Sanskrit alphabet is "a" and the last consonant is "h." Therefore, while meditating on this mantra, one focuses on the silent sound of the universe.
Heavenly beings have superior capabilities and more material pleasure compared to human beings. This life of pleasure is not permanent. They cannot adopt restraints or eliminate all attachments (Raga) or aversions (Dvesha).
JAIN SYMBOLS