Jainism

Jainism is one of the oldest religions in the world, and it has a complex organisation and set of sects. In this article, we will explore the history of Jainism, as well as its main principles and sects. Jainism is unique among religions in that it does not have a single founder or prophet. Instead, it emerged from the teachings of a series of enlightened beings known as Tirthankaras.

Overview Of Jainism

Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that teaches non-violence and respect for all living things. The main aim of Jainism is to achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Ahimsa (nonviolence), Satya (truthfulness), brahmacharya (chastity), asteya (non-stealing), and aparigraha are the principles followed by Jains (non-possessiveness).

Organisation Of Jainism

Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that teaches non-violence and respect for all living things. The Jain community is divided into two main sects: the Digambara and the Svetambara. There are also some smaller sects and schools within Jainism.

The Digambara Sect

The Digambara sect is the more traditional of the two main sects. They believe that Jain monks should live an austere life, without any possessions. They also believe that the path to liberation is only open to men.

The Svetambara sect

The Svetambara sect is more liberal than the Digambara sect. They believe that both men and women can achieve liberation. They also allow their monks to own simple possessions such as a begging bowl and a broom.

There are some smaller sects and schools within Jainism, such as the Terapanthi sect, which is a reformist movement within the Svetambara sect. There is also the Kharatara Gaccha, which is a monastic order that follows strict rules regarding diet and lifestyle.

Principles Of Jainism

Jainism, like any other religion, has a set of core beliefs or principles. The three main principles of Jainism are:

• Non-violence (ahimsa): This is the most important principle in Jainism. It means that all living beings have an equal right to life and should not be harmed in any way.
• Non-attachment (aparigraha): This principle refers to detachment from material possessions and earthly pleasures. Jains believe that attachment to worldly things leads to suffering and unhappiness.
• Self-control (brahmacharya): This principle requires that one should control their senses and desires and live a simple life to attain spiritual liberation.

There are also several secondary principles which include truthfulness (Satya), honesty (aparadha), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-stealing (asteya).

Jainism is an ancient religion with a long and rich history. It is one of the world’s oldest religions and has a following of around four million people. Jains are found all over the world but the majority live in India.

Conclusion

Jainism is a religion that has been around for over 2,500 years. It is one of the oldest religions in the world and is still practised today by millions of people. The main goal of Jainism is to achieve liberation from the cycle of rebirths and attain moksha. There are two main sects within Jainism- Digambaras and Shvetambaras. Each sect has its own beliefs and practices. Although there are some differences between the two sects, they both follow the same core principles of Jainism.