Jainism: A Path of Non-Violence, Truth, and Spiritual Liberation
Introduction
Jainism is a profound and a very ancient spiritual tradition that promotes spiritual liberation by resorting to non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, non-possessiveness and non-attachment.
Unlike many other faiths, Jainism believes that the universe operates independently, without a creator God, and emphasizes on self-purification through karma and ethical living.
The teachings of Jainism are shaped by 24 tirthankars with Bhagwan Mahavir being the last tirthankar of this time cycle.
This blog explores Jainism’s origins, fundamental principles, beliefs, practices, and the four Bhavnas, which help cultivate kindness and equanimity.
Origin and History of Jainism
Jainism dates back to ancient India, with evidence suggesting its existence since time immemorial. The structured philosophy was refined in this era by Bhagwan Mahavir during 599–527 BCE.
The 24 Tirthankars
Jains believe in a lineage of 24 enlightened masters in each time cycle, each contributing to the spiritual evolution of humanity.
Bhagwan Adinath was the first and Bhagwan Mahavir is the last tirthankar of this time cycle. Refer Appendix 1 for more details.
Five Fundamental Principles of Jainism
Five Fundamental Principles of Jainism
The foundation of Jain ethics rests on five great vows (Mahavratas):
- Ahimsa (Non-Violence)
- The most sacred principle of Jainism.
- Jains avoid harm to all life forms, including micro-organisms.
- Followers practice strict vegetarianism.
- Satya (Truthfulness)
- Always speak and act with honesty.
- Lies and deception create negative karma.
- Achaurya (Non-Stealing)
- Taking anything without permission is forbidden.
- Ethical earning and honest transactions are encouraged.
- Brahmacharya (Celibacy)
- Monks and nuns practice complete celibacy.
- Householders maintain fidelity and moderation in relationships.
- Aparigraha (Non-Possessiveness)
- Renouncing material desires and greed.
- Encourages simplicity and minimalism.
By following these vows, Jains purify their souls and reduce karmic burdens. These vows are followed strictly by the monks and with exceptions by lay persons.
Core Beliefs of Jainism
Jainism has unique philosophical beliefs that sets it apart from other religions:
- Karma and Rebirth
- Every action creates karma, which influences future births.
- Moksha (liberation) is attained by removing all karma.
- Anekantavada (Non-Absolutism)
- Truth is complex, and multiple viewpoints exist.
- Jains believe in tolerance and perspective.
- The Universe is Eternal
- Jainism rejects the idea of a creator deity.
- The universe functions through natural laws.
- 4. Moksha (Liberation)
- The ultimate goal is freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth.
- Achieved through discipline, self-study, meditation, and ethical living.
People During the Times of Bhagwan Adinath (Rishabhdev)
- Bhagwan Adinath (Rishabhdev) is the first Tirthankar and the founder of the civilization, in this time cycle.
- His followers were straightforward but Jad, meaning they were simple-minded, lacking awareness, and not intellectually evolved.
- Jain scriptures describe that before Bhagwan Adinath, people lived in a primitive state, relying entirely on the Kalpavriksh ie nature’s bounty for survival.
- They did not understand agriculture, trade, governance, or structured society. Their way of life was instinct-driven, and they lacked critical thinking and innovation. This is why they were considered “Jad”—mentally unrefined or unaware.
- Bhagwan Adinath introduced civilization, teaching people farming, cooking, writing, and governance, transforming them from simple-minded beings into structured, knowledgeable individuals.
His teachings marked the beginning of human progress.
People During the Times of Bhagwan Ajitnath to Bhagwan Parshwanath (2nd to 23rd Tirthankar)
- By the time of the 2nd Jain tirthankar – Bhagwan Ajitnath, society had evolved into organized kingdoms.
- People were known as “Aryas”, signifying civilized and spiritually aware beings.
- Four vows – non-violence, truth, non-stealing, non-possessiveness and non-attachment were widely followed.
- The followers were straight-forward and sincere.
People During the Times of Bhagwan Mahavir (24th Tirthankar)
- During Bhagwan Mahavir’s time also, Jainism had a structured monastic system.
- His followers were categorized as:
- Ganadharas – Chief disciples who spread his teachings.
- Shramanas i.e. Sadhus and Sadhvis – Ascetics or monks who renounced worldly life.
- Shravaks and Shravikas – Lay followers practicing Jain principles.
- Society was divided into different sects, including Jain monks, scholars, and householders, as in the case of earlier tirthankars.
Bhagwan Mahavir introduced the fifth vow, Brahmacharya (celibacy), to strengthen the path of spiritual discipline and self-control. The earlier 23 tirthankars had prescribed four vows – non-violence, truth, non-stealing, non-possessiveness and non-attachment i.e. Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya and Aparigraha. However, Bhagwan Mahavira observed that sensual desires and attachments had become significant obstacles to achieving Moksha.
By adding Brahmacharya, Bhagwan Mahavir emphasized complete renunciation of worldly pleasures, ensuring that monks could fully detach from material and emotional distractions. This vow helped practitioners purify their souls, reduce karmic bondage, and attain spiritual enlightenment.
Each era reflects spiritual progress, moving from basic survival to ethical living and enlightenment.
During the times of Bhagwan Adinath upto Bhagwan Parshwanth, Jain teachings primarily emphasized four vows—Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, and Aparigraha. However, it was Bhagwan Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankar, who later expanded these vows to five, adding Brahmacharya as a distinct principle.
These five vows are to be practised strictly by the monks and with exceptions by the lay persons. Celibacy is practised without any exception by the monks.
Jain Practices and Rituals
Jains follow strict ethical and spiritual practices, designed to purify the soul:
- Daily Rituals
- Prayers for atonement of sins, expressing gratitude and reverence, self-study, meditation and worship dedicated to Tirthankars and listening to discourses given by the Gurus.
- Chanting mantras such as the Navkar Mantra.
- Introspection and correction
- Fasting
- Practiced during festivals like Paryushan, for self-purification.
- Some monks engage in Santhara (fast unto death) when nearing liberation.
- Temple Worship
- Jains visit temples to honor Tirthankars.
- Rituals include idol worship and offerings.
4.Monks and Monastries
- The monks (sadhus and sadhvis) and the lay persons (shravaks and shravikas) are the pillars of Jainism.
- The lay persons revere the monks.
- They listen to discourses given by the monks and offer alms and fulfil their basic requirements.
- Charity and Compassion
- Jains are known for philanthropy and animal welfare.
Jain organizations run hospitals, schools, and shelters for animals.
The Four Bhavnas (Reflections)
Jainism encourages cultivating four noble emotions (Bhavnas) that help in spiritual progress:
- Maitri (Friendship & Kindness)
- Practicing love and goodwill towards all beings.
- Encourages peaceful coexistence and harmony.
- Pramod (Appreciation & Respect)
- Feeling joy for others’ success and virtues.
- Removes jealousy and hatred.
- Karuna (Compassion)
- Developing empathy for suffering beings.
- Encourages kindness and selfless service.
- Madhyastha (Equanimity & Neutrality)
- Remaining detached from negativity and conflict.
- Focusing on self-improvement rather than judgment.
These Bhavnas guide the Jains to maintain inner peace and spread positive energy in society.
Jainism and Modern Society
Jainism’s principles are highly relevant today, influencing business, ethics, and environmental sustainability.
- Environmental Responsibility
- Jains advocate sustainable living.
- Many follow veganism and eco-friendly practices.
- Ethical Business Practices
- Jain entrepreneurs uphold honest trade and fair ethics.
- Several Jain-owned businesses focus on social responsibility.
- Peace and Harmony
- Jainism fosters interfaith respect and tolerance.
- Many Jains contribute to global peace movements.
Conclusion
Jainism is a profound path of self-discipline, non-violence, and spiritual enlightenment. Its principles of Ahimsa, truth, and ethical living continue to guide millions worldwide.
By practicing the five vows and cultivating the four Bhavnas, Jains purify their souls, deepen their wisdom, and contribute to a compassionate world.
Appendix 1
The 24 tirthankars are :
Bhagwan Adinath
Bhagwan Ajitnath
Bhagwan Sambhavnath
Bhagwan Abhinandan
Bhagwan Sumatinath
Bhagwan Padmaprabhu
Bhagwan Suparshwanath
Bhagwan Chandraprabhu
Bhagwan Suvidhinath
Bhagwan Sheetalnath
Bhagwan Shreyansnath
Bhagwan Vasupujya
Bhagwan Vimalnath
Bhagwan Anantnath
Bhagwan Dharmanath
Bhagwan Shantinath
Bhagwan Kunthunath
Bhagwan Arnath
Bhagwan Mallinath
Bhagwan Munisuvrat
Bhagwan Naminath
Bhagwan Nemnath
Bhagwan Parshwanath
Bhagwan Mahavir