Jainism Explained: 20 Most Important FAQs About the Religion of Non-Violence and Liberation

1. What is Jainism?

Jainism is one of the world’s oldest religions, originating in ancient India . It emphasizes non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), non-possessiveness (Aparigraha), and self-discipline as the path to spiritual liberation (Moksha).

2. Who founded Jainism?

Jainism has no single founder. It traces its teachings through 24 Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers). The 24th and most recent Tirthankara was Lord Mahavira (599–527 BCE), who reformed and revived Jain teachings in his time.

3. Who are the 24 Tirthankaras in Jainism?

The Tirthankaras are enlightened beings who guide others toward liberation. The first Tirthankara was Rishabhadeva (Adinath), and the last was Mahavira. Each Tirthankara symbolizes purity, knowledge, and renunciation.

4. What are the main beliefs of Jainism?

The core beliefs of Jainism are:

  • Ahimsa (Non-violence): Avoid harming any living being.
  • Satya (Truth): Speak only what is true and beneficial.
  • Asteya (Non-stealing): Do not take anything that is not willingly given.
  • Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity): Practice control over desires.
  • Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness): Renounce attachment to material things.

5. What are the main sects of Jainism?

There are two primary sects:

  • Digambara (“Sky-clad”): Followers who believe monks should renounce all possessions, including clothes.
  • Svetambara (“White-clad”): Followers whose monks wear simple white robes.
    Both sects follow the same core philosophy but differ in monastic practices and rituals.

6. What are the sacred texts of Jainism?

The Jain scriptures are called Agamas, based on the teachings of Lord Mahavira. Digambaras believe many original texts were lost, while Svetambaras preserved them orally and in written form. Other key texts include Tattvartha Sutra and Samayasara.

7. What is karma according to Jainism?

In Jainism, karma is viewed as a form of subtle matter that attaches to the soul due to one’s thoughts, words, and deeds. Liberation (Moksha) occurs when all karmic particles are completely removed through right conduct and meditation.

8. What is the ultimate goal of Jainism?

The ultimate goal is Moksha — liberation of the soul from the cycle of birth and death (Samsara). This is achieved through self-discipline, right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct — collectively known as the Three Jewels (Ratnatraya).

9. How do Jains practice non-violence in daily life?

Jains follow strict vegetarianism and avoid harming even the smallest living beings. Many avoid root vegetables like onions and potatoes to prevent killing microorganisms. Monks and nuns take extreme care while walking, eating, and speaking to ensure no harm is caused.

10. What are the main Jain festivals?

Important Jain festivals include:

  • Mahavir Jayanti – Celebrating the birth of Lord Mahavira.
  • Paryushana / Das Lakshana – A period of fasting, forgiveness, and self-purification.
  • Diwali – Celebrated as the day Lord Mahavira attained Nirvana.

11. What are Jain symbols?

The Jain emblem includes:

  • The Swastika symbolizing the four states of existence.
  • The hand with a wheel symbolizing Ahimsa.
  • The three dots representing right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.
  • The crescent and dot representing the liberated soul.

12. What is the Jain view of God?

Jainism does not believe in a creator God. Instead, it teaches that every soul (jiva) has the potential to become divine through purification and liberation. Enlightened beings, or Siddhas, are revered as perfected souls.

13. How do Jains contribute to society?

Jains are known for philanthropy, education, and animal welfare. They establish shelters (panjrapoles) for injured animals, fund hospitals and schools, and promote peace and environmental sustainability.

14. What is Jain cosmology?

Jainism describes a vast, beginningless, and endless universe divided into three realms:

  • Urdhva Loka (upper world)
  • Madhya Loka (middle world, where humans live)
  • Adho Loka (lower world)
    It operates under natural laws, not controlled by a deity.

15. How large is the Jain community today?

Jainism has around 4 to 5 million followers, mainly in India, with diaspora communities in the USA, UK, Kenya, and Canada. Despite small numbers, Jains have made major contributions to business, education, and culture.

16. How do Jains achieve liberation (Moksha)?

Liberation is attained by following the Three Jewels (Ratnatraya):

  1. Right Faith (Samyak Darshan)
  2. Right Knowledge (Samyak Jnan)
  3. Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra)
    These lead to the shedding of karma and realization of the pure soul.

17. What is the Jain way of meditation?

Jains practice Samayika, Preksha Dhyana, and Kayotsarga, focusing on equanimity, self-awareness, and detachment. Meditation purifies the mind and aids in the destruction of karmic bondage.

18. What role does fasting play in Jainism?

Fasting (Upavasa) is a key form of penance in Jainism. It helps in self-purification, control over desires, and detachment from worldly pleasures. During Paryushana, many Jains undertake long fasts.

19. What is the Jain ethical code for laypersons?

Lay Jains (Shravakas and Shravikas) follow Five Lesser Vows (Anuvratas):

  1. Non-violence
  2. Truthfulness
  3. Non-stealing
  4. Chastity
  5. Limited possession

20. What makes Jainism unique among world religions?

Jainism’s uniqueness lies in its absolute non-violence, self-effort for salvation, lack of a creator deity, and scientifically structured cosmology. It presents an ethical and ecological philosophy deeply rooted in compassion and logic.

Conclusion

Jainism is not merely a religion but a philosophy of peaceful coexistence and self-mastery. Its timeless values of Ahimsa, truth, and restraint continue to inspire millions toward a path of purity and liberation.

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