Portrait of Jain Religion

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

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through discourses, discussions, seminars and religious camps in the righteous direction. Among the Jain monks and nuns, there have been all through its history profound scholars, researchers, writers, and poets whose works and commentaries have enriched the interpretation and elucidation of Jain philosophy both in its logical as well as ritual aspects.
Ascetics have to undertake, strictly comply with and remain totally committed to the observance of five Mahavratas (major vows) in thought, conduct and expression. The five vows are:
(1) Ahimsa
vow of absolute non-violence; vow of absolute truthfulness;
(2) Satya
(3) Asteya or Achaurya
vow of absolute non-stealing; vow of absolute celibacy;
(4) Bramhacharya
(5) Aparigraha
vow of absolute non-attachment
They are the same as provided in the ANUVRAT for lay persons with the important difference that these vows have to be practiced in absolute terms without any compromises. The range, extent and depth of perception and implementation of these vows for monks underline the spiritual intensity of Jain religion. This spiritual intensity has come to be vividly mirrored in the glorious shraman culture and tradition strenuously maintained throughout the long history of Jain religion.
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Indeed, shramanic traditions of self-restraint, penance, deep introspection, meditation and contemplation have cast their beneficial impact on practices of Hindu religion, at a time when ritualistic orthodoxy was beginning to dim the compassionate thrust of Hindu philosophy by glorifying violent practices like animal sacrifices. It is also important to note here that the practice of the five major vows is not restricted to their observance by the monks for their own soul purification.
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They are expected not to approve or endorse anyone committing sins involving violence, falsehood, stealing and robbing, indulgent
A Portrait of Jain Religion