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Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra
www.kabatirth.org
Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri Gyanmandir
FOREWORD
The central and foremost teaching of the Jain faith is the philosophy of nonviolence (ahimsa).
rainism is an ancient religion practiced
by a mere few million people worldwide,
yet its impact has been significant and its contribution in the philosophical field has been profound. Jain teachings were propagated by Lord Mahavira, who existed between 599 BCE and 527 BCE in the North Indian state of Bihar. The word Jainism comes from jina, meaning "conqueror." and signifies the importance of conquering our inner enemies, namely anger, ego, greed and illusion One has to be above all attachments and aversion (vitaraga in Jain terminology). Jain "gods" are therefore vitaraga gods and are revered for their virtues and inner qualities. The path to liberation, nirvana, is through right knowledge, right faith and right conduct, which is the ultimate goal for all living beings.
The central and foremost teaching of the lain faith is the philosophy of nonviolence (ahimsa). This philosophy teaches us to give protection, be kind and caring toward all living beings, and to be tolerant toward other people's lifestyles and ideologies.
This book covers the life and message
of Lord Mahavira in a concise yet lucid style, revealing all the main aspects and events of his life. Anyone wishing to know about his life and message will find it very useful and will I hope be inspired to read more about the philosophy of nonviolence he propagated.
Ranchor Prime has been a student of Indian literature for more than thirty years and is well versed in Hindu scriptures. His account of the life of Mahavira will impress both young and old alike. Jain books such as this, written in contemporary English and beautifully illustrated, are always welcome. I am confident that scholars as well as lay people in the Western world will appreciate this work.
Linvite you, dear reader, to explore this wonderful story of Lord Mahavira, whose message is as fresh now as it was two and a half thousand years ago.
Dr. Vinod Kapashi President of the Mahavir Foundation
Harrow, Middlesex, UK
For Private And Personal Use Only
