Overview
This lecture introduces Jainism, its founder Mahavira, major beliefs and practices, ethical vows, worldview, and its impact on other cultures.
Origins and Founder
- Jainism is practiced by about six million people, mainly in India.
- Mahavira, also known as the Jina ("Conqueror"), is regarded as the founder.
- Mahavira was born into the Hindu caste system but rejected it and taught universal equality.
- Followers call themselves Jains, meaning followers of the Jina.
- Mahavira is also called Tirthankara ("Ford-Finder"), believed to guide others to liberation (Nirvana).
Key Beliefs and Concepts
- Jainism shares beliefs with Hinduism: reincarnation, karma, and enlightenment (called Nirvana in Jainism).
- Jainism rejects the caste system and asserts spiritual equality of all beings.
- Reincarnation extends to all living and non-living things, including plants, rocks, water, and fire.
- Karma is viewed as a physical substance that clings to the soul, affecting future rebirths.
- The central problem is suffering; liberation (Nirvana) is the goal.
The Five Great Vows
- Non-violence (Ahimsa): Avoid causing harm to any living being; strict vegetarianism is practiced.
- Truthfulness: Never lie or exaggerate to prevent harm or suffering.
- Non-stealing: Do not take anything not given to you.
- Chastity: Complete celibacy for monks; marital fidelity for lay followers.
- Non-attachment: Avoid emotional or material attachment to reduce suffering.
Hierarchy of Beings and Ethical Practices
- All beings, from humans to elements like rocks and fire, are believed to have souls capable of suffering.
- The hierarchy reflects the number of senses a being possesses, not its status.
- Jains minimize harm: eat only plants, fast regularly, limit possessions, sweep paths, wear face masks, strain water, and avoid root vegetables.
- Monks and nuns live celibate, barefoot, and beg for food, enduring insults as a test of virtue.
Theological & Philosophical Positions
- Jainism is non-theistic, rejecting a creator god; suffering is attributed to ignorance, not divine will.
- Two main branches: Digambara (naked monks, men only) and Svetambara (white-robed, includes women).
- The outstretched palm symbol stands for non-violence.
Jain Epistemology (Theory of Knowledge)
- Jainism teaches anekantavada (non-absolutism), stating truth has many facets.
- The parable of the blind men and the elephant illustrates partial perspectives on truth.
- Encourages open-mindedness and rejects absolute judgments.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Mahavira — The 24th Tirthankara and founder of Jainism.
- Jina — "Conqueror," title for Mahavira.
- Tirthankara — "Ford-finder," a guide to liberation.
- Ahimsa — Non-violence toward all living things.
- Nirvana — State of liberation from suffering.
- Anekantavada — Doctrine of non-absolutism/many-sided reality.
- Digambara — Jain sect practicing nudity; males only as monks.
- Svetambara — Jain sect wearing white robes; includes both genders as monks.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the five great vows and main beliefs of Jainism.
- Prepare for a quiz on Jainism.
- Read the next chapter to learn about Buddhism.