EDUCATION

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JAINISM OVERVIEW

Jainism, at its most basic form, is one of the most ancient religions created in northeast India on the basis of non-violence (more commonly known as Ahimsa), non-attachment, and relative pluralism. Although famous scholars disagree with the exact timeline, the Jain religion was found between 2,500 to 3,000 years ago per confirmation from artifacts and scriptures. 

By the third century BCE, Jainism spread to the south (Karnataka and Tamil Nadu) and the west (Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan). After India's independence, the religion expanded to eastern Africa (rebirth of Jain families specializing in modern business), the United Kingdom, and North America. Across the globe, it is estimated there are over seven million adherents. The Jain religion later would inspire several principles practiced in Hinduism and Buddhism. These Jain principles are well-known throughout history and first-hand experiences, applied by great leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and Cesar Chavez.

JAIN TEMPLE

Today, thousands of Jain temples exist with major contributions in art, culture, and literature worldwide. Observing deeper into these temples, you will come across meticulous and intricate carvings, architectures, and paintings. Part of their blessings from the Jain temple arise from their strength and dedication to family, community, society, and the universe as a whole. 

JAIN SYMBOLS

Breaking down the Jain symbol of values from inside outwards, we have a crescent moon with dots above, 

Om symbol surrounded by a hand and palm, outlined by a universe outline, and the inscription Parasparopagraho Jivanam. More specifically, the crescent with the dots above represent the homes of liberated souls (synonymously referred to as Moksha). The Om symbols the rebirth cycle of Jain cosmology. When we zoom into the symbol, you will notice the four arms of life of animals and plants, humans, heaven, and hell. Whereas, the hand represents Ahimsa, the non-violence pillar. In Jainism, the wheel represents the full life cycle, from birth to death. In all, there is a great deal of symbolic meaning and representation behind the Jainism Hand.

JAIN RELIGION

The Jainism founder, Lord Rishabhanatha, frequently referred as the first tirthankara, lived over 8.4 million years ago. More specifically, Jain religion itself derived from Jina, conqueror of innervices. The religion paved a path for purification, renunciation and enlightenment, in which the ultimate eternal goal was liberation (Moksha) from rebirth. One could possibly achieve this over a lifetime, following the practices of Ahimsa and Karma. This rebirth can be in many forms such as Gods, prophets (Achariyas), humans, animals, insects, plants, and living beings. From the largest to the smallest of living organisms. 

In total, there are 24 tirthankaras (prophets). The most recent being Lord Mahavira, known as the Great Hero, lived in 559 BCE and was able to achieve Kevala (similar to nirvana in Buddhism). Through their generational scriptures, we uncovered a strong positive correlation linked to environmental activism. More specifically, two key factors: 1. Protecting against any kind of harm to all living things, life forms, and microorganisms. 2. Encouraging a stricly vegetarian diet. These two key points encouraged the Endangered Species Act of 1973, which is "...the primary law in the United States for protecting and conserving endangered and threatened species and their habitats."

SACRED PRAYERS

In Jain religion, the most sacred Jain prayer is the Navkar Mantra, which is about salvation to all souls, no matter the religion or belief. For that reason, Jainism proudly supports Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and many other religions. The religion encourages a value of forgiveness, respect, selflessness, service, and simplicity, Interestingly, the jain religion has no Bible version, but instead, follow 45 scriptures. Finally, there is no middleman involved, just a connection between one's soul and God himself. 

HOLY HOLIDAYS AND FESTIVALS

Hare are the most celebrated holy holidays and festivals celebrated in Jainism and what they represent:

Paryushan: Eight-day holiday representing confession and forgiveness to others, self-discipline, and spiritual purification. 

Daslakshan: Ten-day celebration by Digambar Jains (one of two sects of Jainism, second being Svetambara). Ten days are to celebrate ten cardinal virtues to uplift purification, self-reflection, and the way of Jain life.  

Mahavir Jyanti: Birth of Lord Mahvira. 

Diwali (New Year): Enlightment of Lord Mahavira. Also known as the 'Festival of Lights'.