Jainism

Definition

Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that emphasizes the principle of non-violence (ahimsa) towards all living beings. It is one of the oldest Indian philosophies, with roots tracing back to the 6th century BCE, and is known for its ascetic practices and emphasis on spiritual purification through the renunciation of worldly attachments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jainism emphasizes the importance of non-violence (ahimsa) as the highest ethical value, which extends to all living beings, including animals and even microscopic organisms.
2. Jains believe in the principle of anekantavada, which recognizes the multiple perspectives and relative nature of truth, encouraging a non-dogmatic approach to philosophy.
3. Jain ascetics, known as Munis or Sadhus, take vows of non-violence, non-stealing, non-attachment, and celibacy, and often engage in rigorous fasting and meditation practices.
4. The Jain canon, known as the Agamas, consists of the teachings of the 24 Tirthankaras, or enlightened teachers, the most famous being Mahavira, the last Tirthankara.
5. Jainism has had a significant influence on Indian culture, including the development of Indian art, architecture, and literature, as well as the promotion of vegetarianism and environmental conservation.

Review Questions

• Explain how the Jain principle of ahimsa (non-violence) is central to the Jain worldview and its ethical framework.
  • The Jain principle of ahimsa, or non-violence towards all living beings, is the cornerstone of Jain philosophy and ethics. Jains believe that all life is sacred and that causing harm or injury to any living being, even the smallest microorganism, is a violation of this core tenet. This belief in the sanctity of life shapes Jain practices, such as the avoidance of meat consumption, the use of face masks to prevent the accidental ingestion of insects, and the extreme care taken by Jain ascetics to avoid harming any living creature during their daily activities. Ahimsa is not just a moral guideline but a fundamental aspect of the Jain worldview, which sees the universe as interconnected and seeks to minimize any form of violence or exploitation.
• Describe the Jain concept of anekantavada and its implications for Jain epistemology and approach to truth.
  • The Jain principle of anekantavada, or the recognition of multiple perspectives and the relative nature of truth, is a central tenet of Jain philosophy. Jains believe that reality is complex and multifaceted, and that any single perspective or viewpoint cannot fully capture the entirety of truth. This encourages a non-dogmatic approach to philosophy, where Jains acknowledge the validity of different viewpoints and seek to understand the nuances and complexities of any given issue. Anekantavada has significant implications for Jain epistemology, as it rejects the idea of absolute, universal truths and instead emphasizes the importance of considering multiple angles and perspectives when seeking knowledge. This openness to diverse perspectives is seen as a means of achieving a more comprehensive understanding of the world and the nature of reality.
• Analyze the role of Jain asceticism and the pursuit of moksha (liberation) in shaping the Jain worldview and its approach to spirituality.
  • Jain asceticism and the ultimate goal of moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth, are fundamental aspects of Jain spirituality and worldview. Jain ascetics, known as Munis or Sadhus, take vows of non-violence, non-stealing, non-attachment, and celibacy, and engage in rigorous practices such as fasting and meditation to purify their souls and attain moksha. This emphasis on asceticism and the renunciation of worldly attachments reflects the Jain belief that the path to spiritual enlightenment and liberation lies in the detachment from material possessions and the cultivation of inner purity. The pursuit of moksha is not just a personal goal, but a means of breaking free from the cycle of rebirth and achieving a state of eternal bliss and freedom. This focus on individual spiritual transformation shapes the Jain approach to philosophy, ethics, and their overall worldview, which prioritizes the liberation of the soul over the pursuit of material wealth or power.

Related terms

Ahimsa: The fundamental Jain principle of non-violence and non-injury towards all living beings.

Karma: The Jain belief that every action, whether physical, verbal, or mental, has a consequence that shapes one's future.

Moksha: The ultimate goal in Jainism, which is the liberation of the soul from the cycle of rebirth and the attainment of eternal bliss.