Mahavira

Definition

Mahavira, also known as Vardhamana, was the 24th Tirthankara in Jainism and is regarded as one of the most important figures in the development of Jain philosophy and practice. He is often considered the founder of Jainism in its present form, emphasizing principles like non-violence and truth that are central to Jain ethics and metaphysics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mahavira was born into a royal family in 599 BCE in what is now Bihar, India, and renounced his worldly life at the age of 30 to seek spiritual enlightenment.
2. He attained enlightenment after 12 years of intense meditation and ascetic practices, which established him as a key figure in Jainism.
3. Mahavira's teachings emphasized the importance of self-discipline, non-attachment, and the pursuit of truth as paths to liberation (moksha).
4. He propagated the idea that every living being has a soul (jiva) and deserves respect and care, significantly influencing the ethical framework of Jainism.
5. Mahavira is credited with formalizing the doctrines of Jainism and organizing the community around strict ethical guidelines, which include practices like fasting and pilgrimage.

Review Questions

• How did Mahavira's life and teachings contribute to the development of Jainism as a distinct religious tradition?
  • Mahavira's life as a prince who renounced material wealth and status for spiritual enlightenment exemplifies the core principles of Jainism, particularly those related to non-attachment and asceticism. His rigorous ascetic practices for 12 years set a precedent for followers. The doctrines he formalized around non-violence, truth, and self-discipline helped shape Jain philosophy and ethics, establishing Jainism as a distinct tradition with a unique identity separate from other Indian religions.
• Analyze how Mahavira's emphasis on Ahimsa influences both Jain ethics and the broader philosophical landscape in India.
  • Mahavira's strong advocacy for Ahimsa, or non-violence, not only serves as a cornerstone of Jain ethics but also has far-reaching implications for various philosophical discussions in India. By prioritizing non-violence towards all living beings, Mahavira challenged prevailing norms of violence in society, thus shaping ethical conduct within not only Jain communities but also influencing broader Indian culture. This focus on Ahimsa has contributed to its adoption by various reformers and movements throughout Indian history, making it an essential part of Indian philosophical thought.
• Evaluate the role of Mahavira's teachings on Karma in understanding the concept of Samsara within Jain metaphysics.
  • Mahavira's teachings on Karma elucidate how actions impact one's soul and determine the cycle of Samsara or rebirths within Jain metaphysics. He posited that every action—good or bad—accumulates karma that influences future existences. This intricate relationship between actions and their consequences helps followers comprehend their moral responsibilities, guiding them towards liberation from this cycle. By understanding how karma operates according to Mahavira's insights, Jains are empowered to engage in ethical living aimed at reducing negative karma and achieving spiritual liberation.

Related terms

Tirthankara: A spiritual teacher in Jainism who has achieved liberation and helps others achieve the same through their teachings.

Ahimsa: The principle of non-violence towards all living beings, which is a fundamental concept in Jain ethics.

Karma: In Jainism, karma refers to the moral law of cause and effect, where actions have consequences that affect one's future rebirths.