Jainism

Feb 11, 2022
2 min read

Updated: Jun 17, 2025

Eternal dharma.

Location of Origin

India

Basic Principles

1. Ahimsa (non-violence)

2. Anekantavada (non-absolutism)

3. Aparigraha (asceticism)

Information

Jainism is an ancient non-theistic religion based in India. It is based on dharma, or eternal teaching from the 24 tirthankaras from each cycle of time. The three main pillars are ahimsa (non-violence), anekantavada (non-absolutism), and aparigraha (asceticism).

Jain monks and nuns take vows of ahimsa (non-harming), satya (truthfulness), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (self-control), and aparigraha (non-attachment). Jains are often vegetarian, and monks and nuns are often seen wearing masks, so not to even injure a fly by accidentally inhaling it.

Since Jainism does not believe in a creator god, it is often considered non-theistic. Instead, liberation is achieved through self-realization and ethical living. At the heart of Jainism is the belief in jiva (the soul), which is eternal and capable of achieving divine consciousness. Every living being has a soul, and all souls are considered equal. The ultimate goal is to attain moksha—freedom from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). This is achieved by purifying the soul from karma, which Jains believe binds the soul to the material world.

Jainism encourages a life of simplicity, mindfulness, and spiritual purity. Devout Jains may practice meditation, fasting, scriptural study, and regular visits to temples. Temples are often intricately carved and serve as spaces for reflection.

Jainism’s influence can be seen not only in India’s spiritual history but also in its philosophy of peace, environmentalism, and nonviolence, which has inspired leaders like Mahatma Gandhi. It remains a relatively small but deeply principled tradition with followers worldwide.

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