10.3 Triratna: the three jewels of Jainism
5 min read•july 31, 2024
Jainism's , or , forms the core of its spiritual path. , , and guide followers towards liberation. These principles work together, shaping beliefs, understanding, and actions in daily life.
The Three Jewels connect to broader Jain philosophy, reflecting its views on reality, knowledge, and ethics. They provide a practical framework for applying complex concepts like and , while addressing the nature of and Ajiva in everyday life.
The Three Jewels of Jainism
Core Principles of Triratna
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- Triratna forms the foundational principles of Jainism guiding adherents on the path to spiritual liberation
- Three jewels comprise Right Faith (), Right Knowledge (), and Right Conduct ()
- Right Faith involves unwavering belief in the teachings of the and fundamental Jain truths
- Right Knowledge encompasses accurate understanding of reality including the nature of self, universe, and karma principles
- Right Conduct involves practical application of Jain ethical principles in daily life (non-violence, truthfulness, non-attachment)
- Example of non-violence: Avoiding harm to any living being, including insects
- Example of truthfulness: Always speaking honestly, even in difficult situations
- Triratna closely relates to the Jain theory of knowledge which includes different types and stages of knowledge acquisition
- Stages of knowledge: Sensory knowledge, scriptural knowledge, clairvoyance, telepathy, omniscience
Interrelationship of the Three Jewels
- Three Jewels function interdependently forming a holistic approach to spiritual development
- Right Faith serves as the foundation motivating adherents to pursue further knowledge and ethical conduct
- Right Knowledge builds upon Right Faith providing the intellectual framework for understanding reality
- Right Conduct manifests Right Faith and Right Knowledge guiding Jains in daily actions and ethical decision-making
- Synergy between the Three Jewels emphasized in Jain texts highlighting importance of cultivating all three simultaneously
- Interrelationship reflects Jain understanding of interconnectedness of belief, knowledge, and action in pursuit of ultimate truth
- Example: A Jain practicing (non-violence) based on Right Faith, understanding its karmic implications through Right Knowledge, and applying it in daily life through Right Conduct
Significance of the Three Jewels
Importance in Spiritual Growth
- Right Faith fosters deep commitment to Jain principles motivating adherents to pursue further knowledge and ethical conduct
- Right Knowledge provides intellectual framework for understanding nature of reality, self, and path to liberation
- Right Conduct guides Jains in daily actions and ethical decision-making as practical manifestation of faith and knowledge
- Cultivating all three jewels simultaneously essential for spiritual progress and ultimate liberation in Jainism
- Absence of any jewel may lead to imbalanced spiritual development
- Right Faith without Right Knowledge may result in blind belief
- Right Knowledge without Right Conduct may lead to intellectual understanding without practical application
- Example: A Jain studying scriptures (Right Knowledge) but failing to apply non-violence in daily life (lack of Right Conduct)
Role in Jain Philosophy
- Three Jewels reflect core Jain philosophical concepts including nature of reality, self, and liberation
- Right Faith aligns with Jain metaphysical beliefs about existence of soul and possibility of liberation
- Right Knowledge corresponds to Jain epistemology emphasizing direct perception and rational inquiry
- Right Conduct embodies Jain ethics focusing on non-violence, truthfulness, and non-attachment
- Triratna serves as bridge between theoretical understanding and practical application of Jain philosophy
- Example: Understanding the concept of karma (Right Knowledge) leading to mindful actions to minimize karmic accumulation (Right Conduct)
Triratna and the Path to Liberation
Stages of Spiritual Advancement
- Triratna provides comprehensive framework for spiritual advancement guiding Jains through progressive stages of self-realization
- Right Faith initiates journey towards instilling deep conviction in Jain principles and possibility of liberation
- Right Knowledge enables discernment of true nature of reality including concepts of karma, soul, and cycle of rebirth
- Right Conduct facilitates gradual elimination of karmic bondage through practice of ethical principles and austerities
- Three Jewels work in concert to develop fourteen stages of spiritual development () in Jainism
- Example of Gunasthana: Mithyatva (deluded worldview) to Ayoga Kevali (omniscient being without activity)
- Cultivation of Triratna linked to practice of five great vows () and observance of various ascetic practices
- Mahavratas include ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truthfulness), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (celibacy), (non-possession)
Attainment of Moksha
- Ultimate goal of perfecting Three Jewels leads to attainment of (omniscience)
- Kevala Jnana results in Moksha or complete liberation from cycle of birth and death
- Right Faith provides unwavering conviction necessary for pursuing difficult path to liberation
- Right Knowledge enables understanding of nature of bondage and means of liberation
- Right Conduct actualizes knowledge and faith through rigorous spiritual practices leading to karmic purification
- Example: , the last Tirthankara, attaining Kevala Jnana through perfect realization of the Three Jewels
Triratna in Contemporary Jainism
Modern Interpretations and Applications
- Three Jewels continue to serve as moral and spiritual compass for modern Jains guiding navigation of contemporary life complexities
- Right Faith reinterpreted in context of modern scientific understanding reconciling traditional beliefs with empirical knowledge
- Right Knowledge in contemporary context emphasizes importance of both religious and secular education promoting holistic worldview
- Right Conduct remains highly relevant with increased focus on applying Jain ethical principles to modern issues
- Example: Environmental conservation based on principle of non-violence towards all living beings
- Example: Social justice initiatives rooted in Jain concepts of equality and compassion
- Triratna framework adapted in contemporary Jain communities to address challenges of maintaining religious identity in diverse, globalized societies
- Modern Jain scholars emphasize universal aspects of Three Jewels promoting relevance beyond confines of traditional Jain practice
Interfaith and Global Relevance
- Concept of Triratna increasingly used in interfaith dialogues highlighting commonalities between Jainism and other spiritual traditions
- Universal ethical principles embodied in Three Jewels resonate with global movements for peace, sustainability, and personal growth
- Right Faith promotes tolerance and respect for diverse belief systems in multicultural societies
- Right Knowledge encourages critical thinking and lifelong learning applicable in various fields of study and professions
- Right Conduct provides ethical framework adaptable to modern social and environmental challenges
- Example: Jain principles of non-violence and environmental stewardship contributing to global discussions on climate change and biodiversity conservation
- Triratna serves as model for holistic approach to personal development integrating belief, knowledge, and action in secular contexts
Key Terms to Review (27)
Ahimsa: Ahimsa is the principle of non-violence and respect for all living beings, rooted deeply in Indian philosophy. It emphasizes compassion and non-harm towards others, influencing various philosophical traditions and ethical systems in India.
Anekantavada: Anekantavada is a fundamental doctrine in Jain philosophy that advocates for the multiplicity of viewpoints and the complexity of truth, asserting that reality can be perceived from various perspectives. This concept emphasizes that no single viewpoint can capture the entirety of truth, thereby promoting tolerance and understanding among differing beliefs and opinions.
Aparigraha: Aparigraha is a Sanskrit term meaning non-possessiveness or non-attachment, which emphasizes the importance of letting go of material and emotional attachments to achieve spiritual growth and liberation. This concept promotes a life of simplicity and self-restraint, suggesting that true freedom comes from reducing desires and the accumulation of possessions. It is key in various philosophical and spiritual traditions, particularly in Jainism and Yoga, where it plays a vital role in ethical conduct and the pursuit of enlightenment.
Digambara: Digambara is one of the two major sects of Jainism, known for its strict adherence to asceticism and the belief that true liberation can only be attained by renouncing all worldly possessions, including clothing. This sect emphasizes the importance of complete detachment from material desires, which significantly influences its metaphysical views, ethical practices, and epistemological frameworks.
Fasting: Fasting is the voluntary abstention from food, drink, or other physical needs for a specified period, often for spiritual or religious purposes. In Jainism, fasting is a critical practice aimed at purifying the soul and promoting detachment from material desires. It is closely linked to the principles of self-discipline and non-violence, which are foundational to Jain beliefs.
Gunasthanas: Gunasthanas are the stages of spiritual development in Jainism, representing the progression of the soul towards liberation. Each gunasthana signifies a specific level of purity and understanding, indicating the soul's journey through the cycle of birth and rebirth. This concept emphasizes the importance of moral conduct, self-discipline, and spiritual learning in achieving ultimate liberation or moksha.
Indus Valley Civilization: The Indus Valley Civilization was one of the world's earliest urban cultures, flourishing around 2500 BCE in the northwestern regions of South Asia, primarily in present-day Pakistan and northwest India. This civilization is notable for its advanced city planning, sophisticated drainage systems, and a script that remains undeciphered, reflecting a complex social structure and economic organization.
Jiva: Jiva refers to the individual soul or living being in Jain philosophy, representing the conscious entity that experiences existence and undergoes cycles of birth and rebirth. In Jainism, jiva is essential to understanding metaphysics, ethics, and the nature of reality, as it emphasizes the importance of liberation from material bondage and the quest for spiritual purity.
Kevala Jnana: Kevala Jnana is the ultimate knowledge or omniscience achieved in Jainism, representing a state of perfect understanding and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It signifies the complete realization of the true nature of reality, distinguishing between the eternal soul (jiva) and non-soul substances (ajiva), while also embodying the highest ethical and spiritual insight.
Mahavira: 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.
Mahavratas: Mahavratas are the five great vows in Jainism that serve as fundamental principles for ascetic life and ethical conduct. They are crucial to the path of liberation and represent a commitment to a disciplined way of living, reflecting the core values of non-violence, truth, and self-restraint that define Jain philosophy.
Maurya Empire: The Maurya Empire was a significant ancient Indian empire that existed from 322 to 185 BCE, known for unifying much of the Indian subcontinent under a centralized government. It is particularly noted for its contributions to governance, economics, and culture, including the promotion of Buddhism and Jainism during its reign, which connects to broader philosophical classifications and spiritual tenets.
Moksha: Moksha refers to the liberation or release from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara) in Indian philosophy. It signifies the ultimate goal of human existence, where the individual soul (atman) is united with the absolute reality (Brahman) or attains a state of eternal bliss and knowledge.
Panchmahabrata: Panchmahabrata refers to the five great vows in Jainism, which serve as essential guidelines for living a life of non-violence, truthfulness, and asceticism. These vows are fundamental to the Jain path toward spiritual liberation and emphasize the importance of ethical conduct in both personal and communal contexts. Each vow represents a commitment to uphold key principles that align with the Jain philosophy of ahimsa, or non-violence, promoting harmony and respect for all forms of life.
Right Conduct: Right conduct refers to the ethical and moral principles that guide an individual's behavior towards others and oneself, emphasizing non-violence, truthfulness, and respect for all living beings. In Jainism, right conduct is a vital aspect of the path to liberation, aligning closely with the teachings of the three jewels which promote a life of integrity, compassion, and spiritual discipline.
Right Faith: Right Faith is a fundamental aspect of Jain philosophy that refers to the correct understanding and belief in the teachings of Jainism. It emphasizes the importance of having faith in the principles of non-violence, truth, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation. This concept is one of the three jewels that guide practitioners on their spiritual journey towards achieving liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Right Knowledge: Right knowledge is a fundamental concept in Jain philosophy that refers to the accurate understanding of reality and the nature of the self, which leads to liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It encompasses not only factual knowledge but also insight into the principles of non-violence, truth, and the transient nature of worldly existence. In Jainism, right knowledge is essential for spiritual progress and is considered one of the three jewels, or Triratna, alongside right faith and right conduct.
Samayasara: Samayasara is a crucial concept in Jain philosophy that translates to 'essence of time' or 'essence of the moment'. It emphasizes the importance of living in the present and understanding the transient nature of existence. This idea is pivotal in guiding practitioners towards spiritual enlightenment by fostering awareness and mindfulness in every action.
Samyak charitra: Samyak charitra refers to the concept of 'right conduct' or 'proper behavior' in Jainism, emphasizing ethical living and moral integrity as essential components of the path to liberation. This term is a key aspect of the Triratna, or three jewels, which guide individuals towards spiritual growth and the ultimate goal of achieving moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Samyak darshana: Samyak darshana refers to the right perception or correct understanding in Jain philosophy, emphasizing an accurate view of reality that leads to spiritual liberation. This concept is vital as it underpins the Jain approach to knowledge, metaphysics, and ethics, highlighting how one perceives and interacts with the world around them in alignment with Jain principles.
Samyak jnana: Samyak jnana, in Jain philosophy, refers to 'right knowledge' or 'true knowledge,' which is essential for achieving liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This concept emphasizes understanding the true nature of reality, including the nature of the self (jiva) and the non-self (ajiva), and is a crucial component of the path to spiritual enlightenment.
Svetambara: Svetambara is one of the two main sects of Jainism, characterized by its followers wearing white robes and holding different interpretations of Jain scriptures compared to the other sect, Digambara. This group emphasizes the accessibility of spiritual knowledge and the importance of community practices in achieving liberation, connecting deeply with the philosophical underpinnings of Jain metaphysics, ethics, and epistemology.
Syadvada: Syadvada is a key concept in Jain philosophy that translates to 'the theory of conditioned predication' or 'the doctrine of many-sidedness.' It emphasizes the relativity of truth and the idea that truth can be understood from multiple perspectives, each providing a partial view of reality. This concept is foundational in Jain metaphysics and ethics, illustrating how different viewpoints contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of existence.
Tattvartha Sutra: The Tattvartha Sutra, composed by Umaswati, is a foundational text in Jain philosophy that outlines the key principles of reality, knowledge, and ethical conduct. This text integrates metaphysical concepts, ethical guidelines, and epistemological insights, serving as a comprehensive framework for understanding Jain beliefs and practices.
Three Jewels: The Three Jewels, or Triratna, in Jainism represent the core principles that guide the spiritual journey of practitioners towards liberation. These three jewels are Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct, each serving as essential components in achieving spiritual enlightenment and ethical living. Understanding and embodying these principles is crucial for anyone seeking to follow the Jain path and attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Tirthankaras: Tirthankaras are revered spiritual teachers in Jainism who have achieved liberation and serve as guides for others on the path to enlightenment. They are considered the founders of Jain religious teachings and are believed to have attained a state of perfect knowledge, referred to as 'kevala jnana'. Each Tirthankara is a significant figure in Jain cosmology, symbolizing the ideal qualities that practitioners strive to emulate in their spiritual journeys.
Triratna: Triratna, meaning 'Three Jewels' in Sanskrit, refers to the core principles of Jainism that guide its followers towards spiritual liberation. These three jewels are Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct, which collectively form the foundation for ethical living and personal transformation in Jain philosophy. Understanding these jewels is essential for practitioners as they strive for enlightenment and a life of non-violence and truth.