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24 TIRTHANKAR
BHAGWAN MAHAVEER
Mahavira (Sanskrit: महावीर), also known as Vardhaman, was the 24th tirthankara (supreme preacher) of Jainism. He was the spiritual successor of the 23rd tirthankara Parshvanatha. Mahavira was born in the earl y part of the 6th centur y BCE into a royal Kshatri ya Jain famil y in ancient India.
ABOUT JAIN RELIGION
Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that originated around the 6th centur y BCE. It is a non-theistic religion that emphasizes the importance of non-violence, self-control, and spiritual purity . Jains believe in the concept of karma, which means that one's actions in this life will determine the quality of their future lives. The core principles of Jainism are the three jewels: right belief, right knowledge, and right conduct. Jains strive to follow these principles through the practice of meditation, fasting, and a vegetarian diet. They also adhere to the principle of ahimsa or non-violence, which means they avoid harming any living beings. Jainism has two major sects: Digambara and Svetambara. The Digambaras believe in living a life of extreme asceticism and nudity , while the Svetambaras wear white clothes and are more lenient in their ascetic practices.
JAIN SYMBOL
Jainism has a number of symbols that are considered sacred and significant to followers of the religion. Here are some of the most important Jain symbols:
1. Om: This is a sacred sound that is important to many Indian religions, including Jainism. It is often depicted in Jain art and is considered a symbol of the universe and the ultimate reality .
2. Swastika: In Jainism, the swastika is a symbol of good luck and well-being. It is often depicted with four arms, each representing the four possible states of existence: human, animal, heavenly being, and hellish being.
3. Parasol: The parasol is a symbol of protection and shelter. In Jain art, it is often depicted as a canopy over the heads of Jain tirthankaras (spiritual teachers).
4. Dharmacakra: This is a symbol of the teachings of the Buddha, but it is also important in Jainism. It represents the wheel of law and the cycle of birth and death.
5. Hand: The open palm of a hand is a common symbol in Jainism, representing non-violence and the absence of harm. 6. Jain flag: The Jain flag consists of five colors, each representing a different aspect of Jainism. These are white for purity and peace, red for passion and bravery , yellow for non-attachment and truthfulness, green for fertility and prosperity , and black for detachment and renunciation. These symbols are important to Jains as reminders of the core principles and values of their religion.
JAIN FLAG
The Jain flag is a significant symbol in Jainism and consists of five colors, each representing a different aspect of the religion. The five colors and their associated meanings are:
1. White: This color represents purity , peace, and the absence of all vices.
2. Red: This color represents love and compassion, as well as braver y and strength.
3. Yellow: This color represents non-attachment, truthfulness, and loyalty .
4. Green: This color represents vegetation and life, as well as prosperity and progress.
5. Dark Blue & Black: This color represents detachment, renunciation, and the absence of worldly desires. The Jain flag is often flown at Jain temples and festivals, and it is an important symbol of the Jain community .
The five colors are arranged in a specific pattern on the flag, with the top two-thirds of the flag being divided into three equal parts (white, green, and black from top to bottom) and the bottom one-third being divided into two equal parts ( yellow on top and red on bottom). The Jain flag is a colorful and meaningful representation of the values and principles of Jainism.
JAIN GURU/MUNI
In Jainism, a guru refers to a spiritual teacher who guides a person on their path towards enlightenment. The guru is considered an important figure in the life of a Jain, and is often revered and respected for their wisdom and knowledge of the scriptures. Jain gurus are believed to have achieved spiritual liberation or Moksha, and are considered role models for their followers.
Muni, on the other hand, refers to a Jain monk who has renounced all worldl y possessions and desires in order to pursue a life of spiritual practice and devotion. Munis are often seen as the embodiment of Jain principles, and are highl y respected in Jain communities. They live an ascetic lifest y le, focusing on spiritual practices such as meditation, self-discipline, and the study of Jain scriptures.
Munis are also expected to follow the Jain principle of ahimsa (non-violence) in all aspects of their lives, including their diet and dail y interactions with others. Both gurus and munis play an important role in Jainism, as they provide guidance and inspiration to followers on their spiritual journey towards Moksha.
JAIN BELIEFS
Jainism is a religion that originated in India and is based on the teachings of 24 spiritual teachers or Tirthankaras, the most recent of whom was Lord Mahavira. Jains believe in the principle of ahimsa (non-violence) towards all living beings, and follow a strict code of ethics and behavior in their dail y lives. Here are some of the key beliefs of Jainism:
1. Non-violence (ahimsa): This is one of the most important principles of Jainism, and is based on the belief that all living beings are interconnected and deserve to be treated with respect and compassion.
2. Karma: Jains believe in the principle of karma, which states that all actions have consequences, and that these consequences determine a person's future experiences.
3. Reincarnation: Jains believe in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, and that the soul passes through different forms of existence based on its karma. They believe that the ultimate goal is to break this cycle and attain spiritual liberation or Moksha.
4. Non-attachment: Jains believe in the principle of non-attachment to material possessions, as attachment to material objects can lead to suffering and distract a person from their spiritual journey .
5. Non-absolutism: Jains believe in the principle of anekantavada, which means non-absolutism or non-one-sidedness. This principle emphasizes the importance of considering multiple perspectives and recognizing that truth is multifaceted.
6. Renunciation: Jains believe in the importance of renouncing worldly desires and attachments in order to pursue spiritual liberation. Jain ascetics, known as munis, follow a strict code of conduct and live an ascetic lifest y le focused on spiritual practice and devotion.
These are some of the key beliefs of Jainism, which emphasize the importance of living a life of compassion, non-violence, and spiritual growth.
JAIN FOOD
In Jainism, food plays an important role in dail y life, as Jains are committed to following the principle of ahimsa (non-violence) in all aspects of their lives, including their diet. This means that Jains follow a vegetarian diet that excludes all animal products, such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy .
Jains also follow a strict code of dietar y restrictions, known as the Jain diet. This diet involves avoiding certain foods that are believed to be detrimental to spiritual purity , such as root vegetables (e.g. potatoes, onions, garlic), certain fruits (e.g. bananas, papayas), and some grains and pulses (e.g. lentils, beans). The reason for this is that harvesting these foods can cause harm to small insects and microorganisms that live in the soil.
Jains also follow a practice known as "ekasana", which involves eating onl y one meal a day . This practice is believed to reduce the harm caused to living beings during food preparation and consumption. In addition to following these dietar y restrictions, Jains also emphasize the importance of eating food that is freshl y prepared, pure, and free from any contamination. They also believe in practicing mindfulness during meals, offering thanks to the living beings that have contributed to the food they are about to consume.
JAIN FESTIVAL
Jainism has several festivals that are celebrated throughout the year. Here are some of the most important Jain festivals: 1. Mahavir Jayanti: This festival celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. It is celebrated in April or May and involves the recitation of prayers and the distribution of food and clothing to the needy .
2. Paryushana: This is an eight-day festival that is usuall y celebrated in August or September. It is a time for fasting, introspection, and reflection on one's actions and their impact on the world. During this festival, Jains take vows of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy , and non-attachment.
3. Diwali: This festival is celebrated by Jains as well as Hindus and Sikhs, and marks the triumph of good over evil. It is celebrated in October or November and involves the lighting of lamps, the exchange of sweets and gifts, and the worship of Lord Mahavira and other deities.
4. Navpad Oli: This is a nine-day festival that is celebrated twice a year, in March and September. It involves the recitation of prayers and the performance of rituals to honor the Navpad, the nine spiritual leaders of Jainism.
5. Samvatsari: This festival marks the end of the Par yushana festival and is a time for seeking forgiveness and reconciliation. Jains seek forgiveness from those they have wronged and offer forgiveness to those who have wronged them.
These are some of the major festivals celebrated by Jains, although there are many other smaller festivals and holy days throughout the year.
JAIN FESTIVA
IN INDIAN ECONOMY
Jainism is one of the major religions in India, and followers of Jainism have made significant contributions to various aspects of Indian society , including the economy . Here are some of the ways in which Jains have contributed to the Indian economy :
1. Trade: Jains have been historically involved in trade and commerce, and they have played a significant role in the growth of India's economy . Many Jains are successful entrepreneurs and businessmen, and they have contributed to the development of various industries such as textiles, diamonds, and precious stones.
2. Philanthropy : Jains have a strong tradition of philanthropy , and they have contributed significantl y to various charitable causes in India. Many wealthy Jains have established charitable trusts and foundations to support education, healthcare, and other social welfare activities.
3. Banking and finance: Jains have played a significant role in the development of India's banking and finance industry . Many Jains are involved in banking and finance, and they have helped to establish and grow some of the largest banks and financial institutions in India.
4. Education: Jains have been strong supporters of education in India, and they have contributed to the growth of various educational institutions. Many Jain trusts and foundations support schools, colleges, and universities in India.
5. Agriculture: Jains have also contributed to the growth of India's agriculture sector. Many Jains are involved in agriculture and farming, and they have introduced modern farming techniques and technologies to improve agricultural productivity . Overall, Jains have made significant contributions to the Indian economy through their involvement in trade, philanthropy , banking and finance, education, and agriculture.
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