Jainism is an ancient religion that originated in India. It is considered to be one of the oldest religions in the world, with its roots dating back to the 6th century BCE. Jainism was founded by Mahavira, who is regarded as the last and 24th Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) in the Jain tradition.
Jainism emphasizes non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-possession (aparigraha) as its core ethical principles. These principles are known as the Five Vows or Mahavratas, and they guide the followers of Jainism in leading a life of compassion and moral integrity.
Jains believe in the concept of karma, which suggests that every action has consequences that affect one’s present and future lives. They strive to minimize their accumulation of negative karma through self-discipline and renunciation of worldly desires. Jains practice asceticism and often engage in meditation, fasting, and other spiritual practices to purify their souls and attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Jainism is also notable for its strong emphasis on non-violence towards all living beings, including animals, and many Jains follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet. They believe in the inherent value and sanctity of all life and advocate for the protection and welfare of animals.
Jainism has two major sects: Digambara and Svetambara. Digambara Jains believe in complete nudity as a symbol of renunciation, while Svetambara Jains wear white clothing and are more lenient in their approach to ascetic practices.
Jainism has had a significant influence on Indian culture, particularly in the fields of art, architecture, philosophy, and literature. Jain temples, with their intricate carvings and exquisite architecture, are notable examples of Jain artistic expression.
Today, Jainism has a relatively small but dedicated following, primarily in India, but also among the Indian diaspora in other parts of the world. Jains are known for their strong emphasis on non-violence, compassion, and ethical living, making Jainism a unique and distinct religious tradition.
Jainism Quotes
1. “Do not injure, abuse, oppress, enslave, insult, torment, torture, or kill any creature or living being.”
— Lord Mahavira
2. “Do unto others as you would like to be done by. Injury or violence done by you to any life in any form, animal or human, is as harmful as it would be if caused to your own self.”
— Lord Mahavira
3. “Kill not, cause no pain. Non-violence is the greatest religion.”
— Lord Mahavira
4. “In happiness & suffering, in joy and grief, we should regard all creatures as we regard our own self.”
— Lord Mahavira
5. “All breathing, existing, living, sentient creatures should not be slain, nor treated with violence, nor abused, nor tormented, nor driven away.”
— Lord Mahavira
6. “Anger begets more anger, and forgiveness and love lead to more forgiveness and love.”
— Lord Mahavira
7. “Live and allow others to live; hurt no one; life is dear to all living beings.”
— Lord Mahavira
8. “In happiness & suffering, in joy and grief, we should regard all creatures as we regard our own self.”
— Lord Mahavira
9. “The most important principle of environment is that you are not the only element.”
— Lord Mahavira
10. “Do not deprive someone of his livelihood. This is a sinful tendency.”
— Lord Mahavira
11. “All are my friends. I have no enemies.”
— Lord Mahavira
12. “All souls are equal and alike and have the similar nature and qualities.”
— Lord Mahavira
13. “Karma is the root cause of birth and death, and these are said to be the source of misery. None can escape the effect of their own past karma.”
— Lord Mahavira
14. “Don’t accumulate if you do not need. The excess of wealth in your hands is for the society, and you are the trustee for the same.”
— Lord Mahavira
15. “One who neglects or disregards the existence of earth, air, fire, water and vegetation disregards his own existence which is entwined with them.”
— Lord Mahavira
16. “If you want to cultivate a habit, do it without any reservation, till it is firmly established. Until it is so confirmed, until it becomes a part of your character, let there be no exception, no relaxation of effort.”
— Lord Mahavira
17. “A soul can only achieve liberation by getting rid of all the karma attached to it.”
— Lord Mahavira
18. “A man is seated on top of a tree in the midst of a burning forest. He sees all living beings perish. But he doesn’t realize that the same fate is soon to overtake him also. That man is fool.”
— Lord Mahavira
19. “Non-violence & kindness to living beings is kindness to oneself.”
— Lord Mahavira
20. “It is better to win over the self than to win over a million enemies.”
— Lord Mahavira
21. “Live and let live.”
— Lord Mahavira
22. “Non-violence is the greatest religion.”
— Lord Mahavira
23. “In happiness and suffering, in joy and grief, we should regard all creatures as we regard our own self.”
— Lord Mahavira
24. “A man should wander about treating all creatures as he himself would be treated.”
— Sutrakritanga
25. “The greatest mistake of a soul is non-recognition of its real self and can only be corrected by recognizing itself.”
— Samaysara
26. “One who neglects or disregards the existence of earth, air, fire, water, and vegetation disregards his own existence which is entwined with them.”
— Lord Mahavira
27. “The soul comes alone and goes alone, no one companies it and no one becomes its mate.”
— Lord Mahavira
28. “One who knows the self knows everything.”
— Acharanga Sutra
29. “All living beings have an equal right to live.”
— Acharanga Sutra
30. “An act of violence is an act of self-destruction.”
— Jain Proverb
