Jainism is one of the oldest religion of world. It believes
in a cyclical nature of universe. Thus a universe without
beginning, without end and without creator.
Rishabhdev,
the first Tirthankar (Maker of the ford) of this cycle
of time, is mentioned in Rig Veda, the oldest scripture
of Hinduism believed to be at least 5000 years old.
The
last of the 24 Tirthankars of this cycle of time was
Lord Mahaveer who lived between 599 and 527 B.C.E.
Ahinsa
(Non-violence) is the underlying philosophy of Jainism.
Ahinsa as taught by Jainism is very comprehensive and
is concerned not only with Human beings but also all
living beings, whether they are animals, plants, insects
or microbes. Detailed description and classification
of types of living beings and ways to minimise and avoid
violence against them is given in thousands of centuries
old Jain scriptures.
The
objective of Jainism is to strive for Moksha or Liberation
from unending cycles of Birth, Death and Re-birth. One
who is liberated is called as Siddha. A Siddha is a
soul which has achieved it's original state of infinite
bliss and power etc. Every Jiva (living being) has the
potential of becoming a Siddha and therefore God.
Jainism
does not believe in God as the creator of universe.
God is a liberated soul (Siddha) who has attained Moksha.
A role model as well as a teacher. Every human being
and every living being for that matter has the potential
to attain Moksha and thus become God.
Philosophical
principles of Anekantvad (Non-absolutism or Multi-sidedness)
and Syadvad (Relativity of truth) are unique only to
the Jain system of thought. Karma theory has its roots
in Jainism and is thoroughly explained.
Jainism
says that the future of a man is in his own hands. All
Jain rituals, religious practises and beliefs are beneficial
from a scientific perspective too. Ahinsa and Vegetarianism
are preached and practised very thoroughly.
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