Birth and Early Life:

Mahavira was the 24th tirthankara, or enlightened being, of Jainism. He was born in Kundagrama, a village near Vaishali in Bihar, India, in 540 BCE. His birth name was Vardhamana, which means “one who grows”.

Mahavira was born into a wealthy kshatriya family. His father, Siddhartha, was the head of the Jnatrika clan, and his mother, Trishala, was the sister of Chetaka, the king of Vaishali. Mahavira had a younger sister named Anojja

Mahavira was educated in the traditional kshatriya arts and sciences. He was also trained in the practice of yoga and meditation.

Ascetic Journey:

At the age of 30, Mahavira renounced his wealth and family and became a wandering ascetic. He practiced severe austerities for 12 years, during which time he is said to have attained enlightenment.

Mahavira preached the Jain philosophy of non-violence, asceticism, and purity. He traveled throughout India, teaching his disciples for 30 years. He died in 468 BCE at the age of 72

Attainment of Enlightenment:

At the age of 42, while meditating under a sal tree, Mahavira achieved spiritual enlightenment (kevala jnana). He gained profound insights into the nature of reality, karma, and the path to liberation. He became a Jina, which means “conqueror” or “victor” over the cycle of birth and death.

Mahavira’s teachings are the basis of Jainism, which is one of the oldest religions in the world. Jainism is a non-theistic religion, meaning that it does not believe in a creator god.

Jains believe that the universe is eternal and that there are many souls, or jivas, that are constantly being reborn.

Teaching and Founding Jainism:

After attaining enlightenment, Mahavira began teaching his philosophical insights and spiritual practices to others. He laid the foundation for what would become Jainism, emphasizing the concepts of non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-stealing (asteya).

Mahavira organized his teachings into a systematic framework, including principles for right conduct, meditation, and ethical living. He attracted a significant number of followers from various backgrounds, including both monks and laypeople.

Final Years and Nirvana:

Mahavira’s teachings and ascetic lifestyle continued to gather momentum. He traveled extensively, delivering discourses and spreading his philosophy. At the age of 72, after a life of profound spiritual contribution, Mahavira attained nirvana (liberation) in Pawapuri, Bihar, in 468 B.C. He shed his physical body and achieved ultimate liberation from the cycle of birth and death

Mahavira is considered to be one of the greatest teachers of non-violence in the world. His teachings have had a profound influence on many people, including Mahatma Gandhi.

 Legacy:

Mahavira’s teachings laid the foundation for Jainism, emphasizing the importance of right belief, right knowledge, and right conduct as pathways to liberation. His principles of non-violence and compassion have had a lasting impact on Indian philosophy, ethics, and culture. Jainism has continued to be practiced by millions of followers, and Mahavira is revered as one of the most important spiritual leaders in the religion’s history. His life and teachings remain a source of inspiration for those seeking a path of ethical living and spiritual enlightenment

2. Teachings of Mahavira

The teachings of Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, revolve around profound philosophical and ethical principles that guide individuals toward spiritual enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). Here are some of the key teachings of Mahavira:

1. Non-Violence (Ahimsa): Ahimsa is the cornerstone of Jain philosophy. Mahavira emphasized the absolute prohibition of causing harm to any living being, whether through physical, mental, or verbal means. Jains are encouraged to cultivate compassion and minimize harm to all forms of life.

2. Truthfulness (Satya): Mahavira taught the importance of truthfulness and honesty. Jains are encouraged to speak the truth at all times, avoid deceit, and adhere to principles of integrity in their thoughts, speech, and actions.

3. Non-Stealing (Asteya): Asteya emphasizes refraining from stealing, both in the literal sense and in terms of not taking what is not rightfully earned or deserved. Mahavira taught the significance of respecting others’ possessions and rights.

4. Celibacy (Brahmacharya): Mahavira advocated for celibacy, particularly for those on the path of spiritual renunciation. This includes both physical celibacy and the cultivation of mental purity.

5. Non-Possession (Aparigraha): Aparigraha involves letting go of attachments to material possessions and desires. Mahavira stressed the importance of living a simple life with minimal possessions, reducing attachment to the material world.

6. Multiperspective View (Anekantavada): Mahavira introduced the doctrine of anekantavada, which acknowledges the complexity of truth. This principle encourages individuals to recognize that reality has multiple facets and to avoid rigid dogmatism. It promotes open-mindedness and respect for differing viewpoints.

7. Non-Absolutism (Syadvada): This teaching complements anekantavada by emphasizing that any statement may be true from a certain perspective, but not absolutely true in all circumstances. Syadvada encourages humility and understanding in discussions and interpretations.

8. Karma and Liberation (Moksha): Mahavira taught that every action, thought, and intention accumulates karma, which binds the soul to the cycle of birth and death. He emphasized the importance of purifying the soul through right conduct and spiritual practices to attain liberation (moksha).

9. Asceticism and Spiritual Practices: Mahavira practiced and preached rigorous asceticism, which includes fasting, meditation, self-discipline, and self-control. These practices are aimed at purifying the soul and shedding accumulated karma.

10. Equality and Social Harmony: Mahavira emphasized the equality of all souls and rejected social hierarchies. He advocated for treating all individuals with respect and compassion, regardless of their caste, creed, or social status.

Jainism has evolved over the centuries, giving rise to different organizations, sects, and subgroups that have slightly varying beliefs and practices while still sharing core Jain principles. Here are some of the major organizations and sects within Jainism:

1. Shvetambara and Digambara:

• Shvetambara (literally “white-clad”) and Digambara (literally “sky-clad” or “naked”) are the two main sects of Jainism.
• Shvetambaras wear white garments and believe that Mahavira’s teachings are preserved in scriptures, which include the “Agamas.”
• Digambaras traditionally practice nudity as a symbol of renunciation and believe that the original scriptures were lost, and their teachings have been orally passed down.

2. Sthanakvasi and Terapanthi:

• Sthanakvasis and Terapanthis are subsects within the Shvetambara tradition.
• Sthanakvasis emphasize non-idol worship, practicing meditation in standing posture (sthānaka) rather than using images or idols.
• Terapanthis, founded by Acharya Bhikshu in the 18th century, emphasize the “Thirteen Principles” for ethical living and austerity.

3. Swetambara Murtipujaka and Svetambar Terapanthi:

• Swetambara Murtipujakas primarily follow idol worship and consider certain practices like fasting to be important for spiritual progress.
• Svetambar Terapanthis are a reformist group within the Svetambara tradition, emphasizing non-idol worship and ethical conduct.

4. Jain Digambara and Taran Panth:

• Jain Digambaras are a significant branch of the Digambara sect and emphasize nudity as a symbol of renunciation.
• Taran Panth emerged as a reformist movement within Digambara Jainism, advocating for various reforms including using white clothes.

5. Yapaniya:

• The Yapaniya sect is a smaller sect that emerged within the Digambara tradition, emphasizing simplicity and non-idol worship.

6. Jain Vishva Bharati:

• Jain Vishva Bharati University, founded by Acharya Tulsi, is a prominent institution that aims to promote Jain education, values, and philosophy.

7. Bhandari Jainism:

• Bhandari Jainism is a unique sect of Jainism practiced by the Bhandari community in coastal regions of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Goa.

8. Jain Svetambar Terapanth:

• The Svetambar Terapanth sect is known for its emphasis on monastic discipline, simplicity, and reforms.

9. Jain Swetamber Murtipujak Sangh:

• This organization seeks to unite Swetambara Murtipujaka Jains and promote unity and cooperation within the community.

10. Jain International Trade Organization (JITO):

• JITO is a global organization founded by Jain businessmen to promote ethical business practices and community welfare.

4. Literature of Jainism

Jainism has a rich literary tradition that spans centuries, consisting of scriptures, commentaries, philosophical treatises, and other writings that expound the teachings and principles of the religion. Here are some key categories of Jain literature:

1. Agamas: The Agamas are considered the most authoritative scriptures in Jainism. They contain the teachings of Lord Mahavira and provide guidance on ethics, rituals, philosophy, and conduct for monks, nuns, and laypeople. The Agamas are divided into different categories, including:

• Anga Agamas: The primary scriptures, lost over time in the Digambara tradition but preserved in the Shvetambara tradition. These texts cover various aspects of Jain doctrine and practice.
• Upanga Agamas: Supplementary texts that delve deeper into specific aspects of doctrine and conduct.
• Mula Sutras: Fundamental texts that serve as foundational teachings.

2. Commentaries: Various scholars and philosophers have written commentaries on the Agamas, providing explanations, interpretations, and elaborations on the teachings. These commentaries help in understanding the depth and nuances of Jain philosophy.

3. Tika and Bhashya: Tika refers to glosses or annotations on texts, while Bhashya refers to detailed commentaries. These writings provide insights into the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of Jain thought.

4. Prabandhas: Prabandhas are narrative texts that often recount stories of Jain tirthankaras and other prominent figures. These texts can be devotional or didactic in nature.

5. Samayasara: Samayasara, written by Acharya Kundakunda, is a fundamental text in Jain philosophy. It explains the nature of the soul, karma, and the path to liberation.

6. Tattvartha Sutra: Also known as the Moksha Shastra, this text written by Umaswati outlines Jain philosophy and discusses topics such as the nature of reality, karma, and spiritual practices.

7. Yoga Sutra: Yoga Sutra by Haribhadra Suri discusses various practices for the spiritual advancement of monks and nuns.

8. Shatkhandagama: This text is one of the earliest comprehensive works in Jainism, focusing on ethics, rituals, and behavior.

9. Nayadhammakahao: A collection of Jain stories, parables, and teachings in the form of prose and poetry.

10. Jain Literature in Regional Languages: Jain literature has been produced in various regional languages, reflecting the cultural diversity of Jain communities across India. These writings cover a range of subjects and can include hymns, poetry, and philosophical works.

11. Modern Jain Literature: In addition to traditional texts, modern Jain scholars and authors continue to contribute to Jain literature by writing books, articles, and essays that explore and interpret Jain philosophy, ethics, and practices.

5.Councils, Spread and Royal Patrons of Jainism

Jainism, as an ancient Indian religion, has a history of councils, spread across different regions, and royal patrons who have supported and contributed to its development. Here’s an overview:

1. Councils in Jainism: Jainism, like other religions, has seen the convening of councils to address doctrinal, philosophical, and organizational matters. Some notable councils include:

• First Jain Council (3rd century BCE): After Lord Mahavira’s nirvana, the first Jain council was convened in Pataliputra (modern-day Patna) to compile and codify his teachings. The council resulted in the compilation of the Jain scriptures known as the Twelve Angas.

• Second Jain Council (5th century BCE): This council was held to address disagreements within the Jain community regarding interpretation and practices. It led to the division of Jains into two main sects, Shvetambaras and Digambaras.

2. Spread of Jainism: Jainism originated in ancient India and gradually spread to various parts of the subcontinent. Jain monks and nuns played a crucial role in disseminating Jain teachings. Some regions where Jainism spread include:

• Western India: Jainism has strong historical roots in regions like Gujarat and Rajasthan, where significant Jain communities exist to this day.

• Southern India: Jainism spread to Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. The famous monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali (Gommateshwara) in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka, is a symbol of Jain heritage.

• Eastern India: Bihar and West Bengal also had Jain communities and temples.

• Outside India: Jain merchants and scholars played a role in spreading Jainism to regions beyond India, including Southeast Asia.

3. Royal Patrons: Throughout its history, Jainism received support from various rulers and monarchs who were admirers of its ethical teachings and principles. Some notable royal patrons include:

• Chandragupta Maurya: According to Jain tradition, Chandragupta Maurya embraced Jainism later in life and became a Jain monk in his later years.

• Kharavela: The king of Kalinga (modern-day Odisha), Kharavela, supported Jainism and issued inscriptions mentioning his donations to Jain institutions.

• Rashtrakuta Dynasty: The Rashtrakutas, rulers of parts of South India, were known for their patronage of Jainism. Many Jain temples were built during their reign.

• Chalukya Dynasty: The Chalukya rulers of Karnataka also supported Jainism, and several Jain temples and inscriptions can be traced to their period.

• Solanki Dynasty: The Solanki rulers of Gujarat were patrons of Jainism, and Jain temples like the famous Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu were built during their rule.

Enhance your understanding of Jainism with our detailed study materials. Covering the essential principles, teachings, and history of Jainism, these notes are perfect for competitive exams like UPSC, MPSC, and other civil services. Access MCQs and important questions to test your knowledge and prepare effectively. Get ready for your exams with Chase Academy’s comprehensive resources on Jainism.