Portrait of Jain Religion

Author(s): Narendra Jain
Publisher: Prakrit Bharti Academy

Page 36

Jain scriptures, renowned Acharyas of all sects have enriched the religious tradition through their scholarly commentaries of original Jain scriptures bearing the heritage of Mahavir.
It is interesting that all the 24 Tirthankars, who preached total non-violence in thought, conduct and expression were born in the warrior class (Kshatriyas) in royal ruling families in the lap of luxury and surrounded by all trappings of power, wealth and command. Yet they chose to forsake them in a spirit of total renunciation to sec true enlightenment.
Cosmic Parshwanath 18th Century AD, Jodhpur (Rajasthan)
Jain scriptures give vivid life details of all the Tirthankaras including incidents from their previous birth, their royal parentage, significant events of their lives, birth, marriage, renunciation, enlightenment and finally nirvana. Each Tirthankar has a distinct name, color, symbol or emblem (lanchana) by which he is identified. It is also clear that all the Tirthankars hailed from north India, particularly from the region that is presently Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The units of time being different in Jain texts from the
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A Portrait of Jain Religion