Jainism
Explore the comprehensive guide to Jainism - an ancient Indian religion emphasizing non-violence, truth, and spiritual purification.
History
Historical development
Scriptures
Sacred texts
Teachings
Core principles
Articles
In-depth studies
Core Beliefs
Complete non-violence toward all living beings
Significance:
Highest ethical principle and path to liberation
Key Aspects:
- Vegetarianism
- Careful walking
- Filtered water
- Mindful speech
Reality has multiple aspects and viewpoints
Significance:
Promotes tolerance and understanding of different viewpoints
Key Aspects:
- Seven-fold analysis
- Relativity of truth
- Tolerance
- Open-mindedness
Karma binds the soul and liberation comes through purification
Significance:
Explains suffering and provides path to freedom
Key Aspects:
- Karma accumulation
- Purification practices
- Liberation (moksha)
- Soul purification
Living souls and non-living matter as fundamental categories
Significance:
Understanding the nature of reality and consciousness
Key Aspects:
- Soul (jiva)
- Matter (ajiva)
- Consciousness
- Material world
Core Practices
Core ethical commitments for spiritual progress
Importance:
Foundation for ethical living and karma reduction
Key Elements:
- Non-violence
- Truthfulness
- Non-stealing
- Chastity
- Non-possession
Renunciation and self-discipline for spiritual purification
Importance:
Advanced practice for monks and serious practitioners
Key Elements:
- Monastic life
- Fasting
- Meditation
- Study of scriptures
Strict vegetarian diet to avoid harming living beings
Importance:
Essential practice of non-violence
Key Elements:
- No meat
- No eggs
- Filtered water
- Careful food preparation
Major Traditions
Conservative tradition
Sky-clad tradition emphasizing complete renunciation
Characteristics:
- Naked monks
- Strict asceticism
- Women cannot attain liberation
- Ancient texts
Liberal tradition
White-clad tradition with more inclusive practices
Characteristics:
- White robes
- Women can attain liberation
- Broader practices
- Reformed texts
Explore Further
Explore the historical development of jainism from its origins to the modern era.
Discover the sacred texts and wisdom literature of jainism.
Learn about the core teachings, principles, and practices of jainism.
Read in-depth articles about jainism history, theology, and contemporary issues.
Learn about spiritual practices and meditation from jainism tradition.
Compare jainism with other world religions and explore interfaith dialogue.