Beyond Wordly Pleasures- The Message of Mahavira
The fundamental tenets of Jainism predate the birth of Vardhamana, known as Mahavira, who emerged in the sixth century BCE. According to Jain tradition, Mahavira was preceded by 23 other spiritual guides or tirthankaras, who were revered for their teachings.
Central to Jain philosophy is the concept that all life forms, including stones, rocks, and water, possess consciousness. Non-violence, or ahimsa, towards all living beings, particularly humans, animals, plants, and insects, is a core principle of Jainism, which has also left a significant influence on Indian thought as a whole. Karma, the cycle of birth and rebirth, is believed to be influenced by one’s actions, and liberation from this cycle requires asceticism and penance. Monastic life is deemed essential for achieving salvation, and Jain monks and nuns adhere to five vows: refraining from harming living beings, stealing, lying, practicing celibacy, and renouncing possessions.
The teachings of Mahavira, like those of Buddha, were recorded by his followers, often in narrative form to resonate with the general populace. An example from the Uttaradhyayana Sutta recounts how Queen Kamalavati urges her husband to renounce worldly attachments and embrace a life of renunciation and penance.
Jainism gradually spread across various regions of India, similar to Buddhism, with Jain scholars producing a vast array of literature in languages such as Prakrit, Sanskrit, and Tamil. Early stone sculptures associated with Jainism, depicting the tirthankaras, have been discovered at numerous sites across the subcontinent.
Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings Cultural Developments| Class 12 History Notes
In this chapter, we embark on a journey spanning a millennium to explore the insights of philosophers as they sought to comprehend their world. We will delve into how their ideas were transmitted through oral and written texts, as well as expressed in architectural marvels and sculptures, reflecting the enduring impact of their thoughts on society.
Let us learn more about Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings Cultural Developments!