2.7 Jainism
8 min read•august 21, 2024
Jainism, an ancient Indian religion, emphasizes spiritual liberation through ethical living and non-violence. Emerging alongside Hinduism and Buddhism, it traces its roots to the Sramana tradition and was formalized by in the 6th-5th century BCE.
Core Jain beliefs include the concept of eternal souls, , and rebirth. The religion promotes non-violence, multiple viewpoints, and rigorous self-discipline as paths to spiritual purification and ultimate liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
Origins and history
- Jainism emerged as one of the oldest Indian religions alongside Hinduism and Buddhism
- Emphasizes spiritual independence and equality, influencing the development of Indian philosophy and ethics
- Traces its roots to ancient Indian ascetic traditions predating organized religions
Ancient Indian roots
Top images from around the web for Ancient Indian roots
File:Raja Ravi Varma - Sankaracharya.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
The Sramana Movement | World Civilization View original
Is this image relevant?
The Sramana Movement | World Civilization View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Raja Ravi Varma - Sankaracharya.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
The Sramana Movement | World Civilization View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Ancient Indian roots
File:Raja Ravi Varma - Sankaracharya.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
The Sramana Movement | World Civilization View original
Is this image relevant?
The Sramana Movement | World Civilization View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Raja Ravi Varma - Sankaracharya.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
The Sramana Movement | World Civilization View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
- Originated from the Sramana tradition of ancient India around 6th-5th century BCE
- Shares philosophical concepts with early Vedic and Upanishadic teachings
- Influenced by and contributed to the diverse spiritual landscape of ancient India
Mahavira and Jain founders
- Vardhamana Mahavira (599-527 BCE) considered the last Tirthankara and principal figure of Jainism
- 24 Tirthankaras believed to have taught Jain principles throughout history
- Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara, lived around 8th-7th century BCE and established early Jain doctrines
Development through centuries
- Spread throughout India during the Mauryan Empire (322-185 BCE)
- Flourished under the patronage of various Indian dynasties (Gupta, Chalukya, Rashtrakuta)
- Experienced decline during Islamic rule but maintained strongholds in western and southern India
- Underwent reforms and revival in the 19th-20th centuries, adapting to modernization
Core beliefs and philosophy
- Jainism centers on the liberation of the soul from the cycle of rebirth through ethical living and spiritual practices
- Emphasizes personal responsibility for one's actions and the interconnectedness of all living beings
- Promotes a non-absolutist worldview that acknowledges multiple perspectives on truth
Concept of jiva
- Jiva refers to the eternal, conscious soul present in all living beings
- Believes in the existence of infinite jivas, each striving for liberation
- Jivas are classified based on their sensory capabilities (one to five senses)
Karma and rebirth
- Karma viewed as subtle particles that attach to the soul due to actions and thoughts
- Accumulation of karma leads to rebirth in various realms of existence
- Emphasizes personal responsibility for one's karmic state and future incarnations
Non-violence (ahimsa)
- Central tenet of Jainism, extending beyond physical harm to include thoughts and speech
- Practiced through vegetarianism, careful movement to avoid harming microorganisms
- Influences Jain lifestyle choices, occupations, and social interactions
Anekantavada and syadvada
- : doctrine of multiple viewpoints, acknowledging the complexity of reality
- Syadvada: theory of conditional predication, using "maybe" to express the limitations of knowledge
- These principles promote intellectual humility and tolerance for diverse perspectives
Ethical principles
- Jain ethics focus on purifying the soul through rigorous self-discipline and compassionate behavior
- Emphasizes personal responsibility and the cultivation of positive virtues
- Guides daily life choices, from dietary habits to professional pursuits
Five great vows
- : non-violence towards all living beings
- Satya: truthfulness in speech and action
- Asteya: non-stealing or respecting others' possessions
- Brahmacharya: chastity or control over sensual pleasures
- Aparigraha: non-attachment to material possessions
Asceticism and self-discipline
- Practiced through fasting, meditation, and control of bodily desires
- Monastic traditions involve renunciation of worldly possessions and family ties
- Laypeople observe varying degrees of ascetic practices based on their spiritual goals
Dietary practices
- Strict vegetarianism, avoiding meat, fish, and eggs
- Many Jains also abstain from root vegetables to minimize harm to plants
- Practice of filtering water and avoiding fermented foods to prevent consumption of microorganisms
Environmental stewardship
- Emphasis on minimizing harm to all forms of life extends to environmental conservation
- Promotes sustainable living practices and protection of biodiversity
- Jain concepts have influenced modern environmental movements and animal rights advocacy
Cosmology and metaphysics
- Jain cosmology presents a complex, eternal universe without a creator deity
- Emphasizes the cyclical nature of time and the interconnectedness of all existence
- Provides a framework for understanding the soul's journey towards liberation
Jain universe structure
- Divided into three main realms: upper world (heavens), middle world (earthly realm), and lower world (hells)
- Consists of both living (jiva) and non-living (ajiva) substances
- Describes various types of beings inhabiting different parts of the universe
Concept of time cycles
- Universe undergoes endless cycles of progress and decline (utsarpini and avasarpini)
- Each cycle lasts for enormous periods, divided into six ages
- Current age believed to be in a descending cycle, influencing Jain eschatology
Liberation and moksha
- : state of complete liberation from the cycle of rebirth
- Achieved through the elimination of all karmic particles from the soul
- Liberated souls ascend to the Siddhaloka, the realm of perfected beings
Sacred texts and scriptures
- Jain scriptures preserve the teachings of the Tirthankaras and other enlightened beings
- Combine philosophical treatises, ethical guidelines, and cosmological descriptions
- Vary between different Jain sects, with some texts considered lost or partially preserved
Agamas and Siddhanta
- : canonical texts containing the core teachings of Mahavira
- Siddhanta: collective term for the sacred scriptures accepted by different Jain traditions
- Include philosophical discussions, rules for monastic life, and cosmological theories
Purvas and other texts
- Purvas: ancient texts believed to contain the original teachings of Mahavira
- Now considered lost, with only references in later works
- Other important texts include the and various commentaries
Oral vs written traditions
- Initially transmitted orally through generations of monks and nuns
- Written compilation began around 1st century CE to preserve teachings
- Some sects maintain that certain teachings can only be transmitted orally
Jain practices and rituals
- Jain practices aim to purify the soul and progress towards spiritual liberation
- Combine daily observances, periodic rituals, and lifelong spiritual disciplines
- Vary in intensity between lay followers and ascetics
Meditation and yoga
- Samayika: practice of equanimity and self-reflection
- Preksha meditation: technique focusing on self-awareness and transformation
- Incorporates elements of yoga for physical and mental purification
Temple worship
- Involves offering of flowers, fruits, and other items to Tirthankara images
- Recitation of mantras and hymns praising the qualities of enlightened beings
- Performance of aarti (light offering) and other devotional rituals
Festivals and celebrations
- Paryushana: annual 8-10 day period of fasting, study, and reflection
- Mahavir Janma Kalyanak: celebration of Mahavira's birth
- Diwali: associated with Mahavira's attainment of nirvana
Pilgrimage sites
- Shatrunjaya: hill in Gujarat with numerous Jain temples
- Shikharji: believed to be the liberation site of 20 Tirthankaras
- Ranakpur: famous for its intricately carved marble temple
Jain art and architecture
- Jain art reflects the religion's spiritual principles and cosmological concepts
- Characterized by intricate details, symbolic representations, and mathematical precision
- Serves both aesthetic and didactic purposes in Jain religious practice
Temple design and symbolism
- Multi-tiered structures representing the layers of the Jain universe
- Use of specific numerical patterns (72, 52, 24) reflecting Jain cosmology
- Incorporation of symbols like the svastika, dharma chakra, and three jewels
Jain iconography
- Depictions of Tirthankaras in meditation posture with specific identifying marks
- Use of auspicious symbols (ashta mangala) in religious art
- Yantras and mandalas representing cosmic principles and meditation aids
Manuscript illustrations
- Intricately painted Kalpasutra manuscripts depicting Mahavira's life
- Use of distinctive styles and color palettes in different regions
- Incorporation of Jain cosmological diagrams and maps of the universe
Jainism vs other Indian religions
- Jainism shares some common roots with Hinduism and Buddhism but maintains distinct doctrines
- Emphasizes its unique approach to soul, karma, and liberation
- Influences and is influenced by other Indian philosophical traditions
Jainism vs Hinduism
- Rejects the concept of a supreme creator deity, unlike many Hindu traditions
- Does not accept the authority of the Vedas or the caste system
- Shares some ethical principles but differs in cosmology and metaphysics
Jainism vs Buddhism
- Both reject the Vedic tradition and emphasize non-violence and monasticism
- Jainism posits an eternal soul, while Buddhism teaches the doctrine of no-self (anatta)
- Differs in views on karma, with Jainism seeing it as a material substance
Modern Jainism
- Jainism has adapted to contemporary challenges while maintaining its core principles
- Faces issues of modernization, globalization, and preservation of traditions
- Continues to influence various fields through its ethical and philosophical teachings
Global diaspora
- Significant Jain communities in North America, Europe, and East Africa
- Establishment of Jain centers and temples in diaspora countries
- Adaptation of religious practices to new cultural contexts
Contemporary challenges
- Balancing traditional ascetic ideals with modern lifestyles
- Addressing environmental concerns through Jain ecological ethics
- Preserving Jain languages (Ardhamagadhi, Prakrit) and textual traditions
Jain contributions to society
- Influence on Indian business ethics and philanthropy
- Contributions to mathematics, astronomy, and logic in ancient and medieval India
- Modern applications of Jain principles in conflict resolution and environmental conservation
Jain sects and schools
- Jainism has developed various sects and sub-traditions over its long history
- Main divisions arose from differences in monastic practices and scriptural interpretations
- Each sect maintains distinct customs while sharing core Jain principles
Digambara vs Svetambara
- : "sky-clad" monks practice complete nudity, believe women cannot attain liberation
- : "white-clad" monks wear simple white robes, accept possibility of female liberation
- Differ in canonical texts accepted and some ritual practices
Other sub-sects
- Sthanakavasi: rejects temple worship and idol veneration
- Terapanthi: emphasizes strict monastic discipline and social reform
- Digambara sub-sects: Bisapantha, Terapantha, Taranpantha
Monastic traditions
- Strict rules governing monastic life, including daily routines and dietary restrictions
- Emphasis on study, meditation, and teaching of Jain principles
- Variations in practices between different sects and sub-traditions
Women in Jainism
- Role of women in Jainism has evolved over time, reflecting both traditional views and modern reforms
- Jain texts present diverse perspectives on women's spiritual capabilities
- Contemporary Jainism sees increased participation of women in religious and social spheres
Historical roles
- Some early Jain texts describe limitations on women's spiritual progress
- Stories of female ascetics and their achievements preserved in Jain literature
- Women played important roles as patrons of Jain art and architecture
Contemporary status
- Increasing acceptance of women's participation in religious rituals and leadership
- Growing number of female Jain scholars and teachers
- Debates on gender equality within the framework of Jain ethics
Female ascetics and nuns
- Svetambara tradition has a long history of female monastic orders
- Sadhvis (nuns) engage in study, teaching, and spiritual practices
- Some contemporary movements advocate for equal status of nuns with monks
Key Terms to Review (18)
Agamas: Agamas are a collection of scriptures central to Jainism, which provide the foundational teachings and guidelines for the faith. These texts cover various aspects of Jain philosophy, rituals, ethics, and practices, serving as essential sources of knowledge for Jains. The Agamas play a crucial role in the spiritual and communal life of Jain adherents, shaping their understanding of reality and moral conduct.
Ahimsa: Ahimsa is the principle of non-violence and reverence for all living beings, deeply rooted in various Asian religions. This concept emphasizes compassion and the avoidance of harm towards others, whether through action, speech, or thought. It plays a pivotal role in ethical practices and philosophies, influencing everything from personal behavior to social justice issues.
Anekantavada: Anekantavada is a core philosophical principle in Jainism that emphasizes the multiplicity of viewpoints and the complexity of reality. It teaches that truth is not absolute but is relative, depending on the perspective from which it is viewed. This concept encourages open-mindedness, tolerance, and the understanding that different beliefs may hold validity in their own contexts.
Digambara: Digambara refers to one of the two main sects within Jainism, characterized by its belief that ascetic monks should renounce all worldly possessions, including clothing. This sect emphasizes strict adherence to ascetic practices as a means to achieve liberation and highlights the importance of non-attachment to the material world. The Digambara community holds unique interpretations of Jain texts and rituals, setting it apart from the other major sect, Svetambara.
Eco-Jainism: Eco-Jainism is a contemporary movement within Jainism that emphasizes ecological awareness and environmental sustainability based on Jain principles of non-violence (ahimsa) and respect for all forms of life. This approach promotes responsible stewardship of the earth, advocating for practices that minimize harm to the environment and all living beings. It connects traditional Jain values with modern environmental issues, inspiring followers to engage in sustainable practices in their daily lives.
Jain Councils: Jain councils are assemblies that played a crucial role in the preservation and transmission of Jain teachings and texts throughout history. These councils were convened to address doctrinal disputes, standardize religious practices, and compile important scriptures, reflecting the importance of maintaining the integrity of Jainism amidst various challenges, including schisms and external influences.
Jain Diaspora: The Jain diaspora refers to the migration and settlement of Jain communities outside their traditional homeland in India, primarily during the 19th and 20th centuries. This movement has led to the establishment of vibrant Jain communities across the globe, fostering the spread of Jain philosophy, culture, and practices beyond Indian borders, and contributing to a rich intercultural exchange.
Jain Emblem: The Jain Emblem, also known as the Jain symbol, represents the key principles of Jainism, embodying its core values of non-violence, truth, and spiritual liberation. It typically features a hand with a wheel (the Dharma Chakra) on the palm, symbolizing non-violence (ahimsa) and the path to spiritual enlightenment. The emblem reflects the commitment of Jains to ethical living and the importance of compassion towards all living beings.
Karma: Karma is the spiritual principle of cause and effect where an individual's actions (good or bad) influence their future experiences and circumstances. This concept emphasizes moral responsibility and the impact of one's deeds on their current life and future rebirths, connecting deeply to ideas of dharma and ethical living across various religious traditions.
Mahavira: Mahavira, also known as Vardhamana, is the 24th and last Tirthankara in Jainism, who lived around 599-527 BCE. He is considered the founder of modern Jainism and played a crucial role in shaping its core teachings on non-violence, truth, and asceticism. His life and teachings form the foundation of Jain beliefs and practices, emphasizing spiritual liberation through self-discipline and ethical living.
Mahavira's Enlightenment: Mahavira's Enlightenment refers to the profound spiritual awakening experienced by Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara in Jainism, around the 6th century BCE. This enlightenment is a crucial event in Jain belief, marking Mahavira’s realization of ultimate truth and liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara), and establishing him as a significant figure in the development of Jain philosophy and practices.
Moksha: Moksha is the ultimate goal of Hindu spiritual practice, representing liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). Achieving moksha means realizing one's true nature and unity with the divine, leading to eternal bliss and freedom from worldly suffering. This concept is integral to various traditions and philosophies within Hinduism and connects with similar ideas in Jainism and Buddhism.
Puja: Puja is a ritualistic worship in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, involving offerings made to deities or revered figures, often including items like flowers, food, and incense. This practice is a central component of devotional life, reflecting the relationship between worshippers and the divine, and varies in complexity from simple home rituals to elaborate temple ceremonies.
Rishabhanatha: Rishabhanatha, also known as Rishaba or Adinatha, is the first Tirthankara in Jainism, representing the archetypal spiritual teacher and guide. He is a significant figure within Jain cosmology and is revered for his teachings on non-violence, truth, and asceticism, which form the core principles of Jain philosophy. His life and examples serve as a model for spiritual seekers in the Jain tradition, highlighting the importance of self-discipline and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Samyak darshana: Samyak darshana is a key concept in Jainism that translates to 'right perception' or 'correct vision.' It represents the state of seeing and understanding reality as it truly is, free from illusions and misconceptions. This term is foundational in Jain philosophy, as it emphasizes the importance of perceiving the world accurately to achieve spiritual liberation.
Svetambara: Svetambara refers to one of the two major sects within Jainism, characterized by its followers wearing white clothing and emphasizing the importance of lay participation in religious practices. This sect believes that spiritual liberation can be attained through a combination of asceticism, meditation, and adherence to ethical principles, and it contrasts with the Digambara sect, which holds different views on ascetic practices and the nature of the soul.
Swastika: The swastika is an ancient symbol characterized by a cross with arms bent at right angles, often associated with auspiciousness and good fortune. In Jainism, it holds profound significance, representing the concept of eternal life and the cyclical nature of existence, embodying key beliefs about the soul's journey towards liberation and enlightenment.
Tattvartha Sutra: The Tattvartha Sutra is a foundational text of Jain philosophy, composed by Umaswati in the 2nd century CE. It serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the core principles of Jainism, addressing topics such as the nature of reality, the self, karma, and liberation. This sutra is significant for its systematic presentation of Jain doctrines and its influence on subsequent Jain thought and teachings.