Jainism (), traditionally known as Jain Dharma, is an ancient Indian religion. Jain dharma traces its spiritual ideas and history through a succession of twenty-four leaders or "tirthankaras", with the first being Rishabhanatha or also known as Adinath bhagwan of this era, whom the Jain tradition holds to have lived millions of years ago, the twenty-third "tirthankara" Parshvanatha whom historians date to 8th or 7th century BCE, and the twenty-fourth "tirthankara," Mahāvīra around 500 BCE. Jains believe that Jainism is an eternal "dharma" with the "tirthankaras" guiding every cycle of the Jain cosmology. The main religious premises of the Jain dharma are "ahiṃsā" (non-violence), "anekāntavāda" (many-sidedness), "aparigraha" (non-attachment) and "asceticism" (abstinence from sensual pleasures).
Introduction
Jainism
Jainism | Introduction
Rishabhanatha It traces its spiritual ideas and history through a succession of twenty-four leaders or "tirthankaras" Rishabhanatha Rishabhanatha
which of the following is not among the practices of jainism
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Violence, attachment, sensual pleasures, lie and possessiveness are some of them.
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and which are the practices?
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Jains take five main vows: “ahiṃsā”, “satya”, “asteya”, “brahmacharya” and “aparigraha".
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when did jainism begin?
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Historians date it to 8th or 7th century BCE.
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who is the leader?
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He was the head till 463 BCE. Sudharma Svami and Jambu Svami are also traditionally said to have attained "keval jnana". It is said that no one after Jambu Svami has attained it till now.
History of Jainism | Lineage
The Digambar Jain Mahasabha was founded in 1894 in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. It is considered a traditionalist organisation. Its two main branches are "Dharm Sanrakshini Mahasabha" and "Teerth Sanrakshini Mahasabha". The first President of The Digambar Jain Mahasabha was Laxmandas Tongya. In 1941, the leadership of the "Mahasabha" was handed over by Seth Hukumchand of Indore to Bhagchand Soni at the "Shravanabelagola" convention. Later leaders included Shrimant Seth Mohanlal of Khurai, Panditacharya Charukirti of Shravanabelagola, Manikchand J.P. of Mumbai, Champat Rai Jain of Delhi, Rajkumar Singh of Indore, Bhanvarilala Bakliwal, Raisahab Chandmal Pandya, and Likhamichand Chhabra. The present leader is Nirmal Kumar Jain Sethi, who has been in office since 1981 and is now the longest serving president in the history of the organisation.
Digambar Jain Mahasabha | History
After the nirvana of Parshvanatha, his disciple Subhadatta became the head of the monks. Subhadatta was succeeded by Haridatta, Aryasamudra, Prabha and lastly Kesi. Uttaradhyayana, a Svetambara text have records of a dialogue between Mahavira's disciple and Kesi; Kesi along with his community accepted Mahavira as a "tirthankara" and merged with him as a result. The "Tirthankaras" are believed in the Jain tradition to have attained omniscience, known as "kevala gyana". After Mahavira, one of his disciples Sudharma Svami is said to have taken over the leadership. He was the head of Jain community till 600 BCE. After his death, Jambuswami, a disciple of Sudharma Svami became the head of the monks.
History of Jainism | Lineage
Mahavira had 11 chief disciples, Indrabhuti Gautama being the most senior. Each chief disciple was made responsible for 250 to 500 monks. The Jain sangha (community) was led and administered by an organised system consisting of "acharyas" (leaders), "upadhyayas" (teachers), "sthaviras" (motivators of self-discipline), "pravartakas" (preachers) and "ganis" (leader of smaller groups of monks). Other titles included "panyasa" (canonical text experts), "mahattara" (female leader) and "pravartini" (female preacher). The leadership of Jain order passed from Mahavira to Indrabhuti, who was succeeded by Sudharma (607-506 BCE). After 12 years, it was further passed on to Jambu (543-449 BCE), Prabhava (443-338 BCE) and Shayyambhava (377-315 BCE).
Jain monasticism | History
There is reasonable historical evidence that the 23rd "Tirthankara", Parshvanatha, the predecessor of Mahavira, lived somewhere in the 9th–7th century BCE.
History of Jainism | Parshvanatha
Information regarding the political history of Jainism is uncertain and fragmentary. Jains consider the kings Bimbisara (c. 558–491 BCE), Ajatashatru (c. 492–460 BCE), and Udayin (c. 460-440 BCE) of the Haryanka dynasty as patrons of Jainism.
History of Jainism | Political history
Early Jain writers included Gunadhara, Dharasena-Pushpadanta, Kundakunda and Umaswati. Svetambara leaders organised two councils at Mathura and Valabhi in 4th-century CE. They accepted their canon in Valabhi council of 5th-century CE under the leadership of Devardhigani.
Jain literature | History
For example, the Hindu Rashtra kuta dynasty started the early group of Jain temples, and Yadava dynasty built many of the middle and later Jain group of temples at the Ellora Caves between 700 and 1000 CE.
History of Jainism | Hindu kings
Jainism is related to an extinct Indian religious tradition named Ājīvika. The later is mentioned in ancient texts of Buddhism and Jainism, and it is attributed to Makkhali Gosala, a contemporary of the Buddha and Mahavira. The Jain "Bhagavati Sutra" refers to the Ajivika founder as Gosala Mankhaliputta ("son of Mankhali"). The text depicts Gosala as having been a disciple of Mahavira's for a period of six years, after which the two fell out and parted ways. The "Bhagavati Sutra" mentions a debate, disagreement and then "coming to blows" between factions led by Mahavira and by Gosala. Jainism also flourished under the Nanda Empire (424–321 BCE).
History of Jainism | Ajivika
Mr Ramesh Mehta, a leader of the community, is a full-fledged member of the Belgian Council of Religious Leaders put up on 17 December 2009.
Jainism in Belgium | Leaders within the community
According to Jain texts, the 22nd "Tirthankara" Neminatha lived about 85,000 years ago and was the cousin of Hindu god Krishna. Jains consider their religion eternal. The two main sects of Jainism, the "Digambara" and the "Śvētāmbara" sect, likely started forming about the 3rd century BCE and the schism was complete by about 5th century CE. These sects later subdivided into several sub-sects such as Sthānakavāsī and Terapanthis. Jainism co-existed with Buddhism and Hinduism in ancient and medieval India. Many of its historic temples were built near the Buddhist and Hindu temples in 1st millennium CE. After the 12th-century, the temples, pilgrimage and naked ascetic tradition of Jainism suffered persecution during the Muslim rule, with the exception of Akbar whose religious tolerance and support for Jainism led to a temporary ban on animal killing during the Jain religious festival of Paryusan.
History of Jainism | Introduction
Dr. Chenraj Roychand (born 7 July 1961) is the founder of the Jain Group and Chancellor - Jain University since 1990.
Chenraj Roychand | Introduction
Emperor Kharavela of Mahameghavahana dynasty, was religiously tolerant, while being a patron of Jainism. Inscriptions found in Udayagiri mentions that he erected a statue of the Rishabhanatha, the first "Tirthankara" and made cave-dwellings for monks. In first century CE, "Acharya" Bhutabali lead a group of Jain monks to the caves surrounding Madurai for spreading Jainism. According to the "Ashokavadana", a non-Buddhist in Pundravardhana drew a picture showing the Buddha bowing at the feet of the Nirgrantha leader Jnatiputra. The term nirgrantha ("free from bonds") was originally used for a pre-Jaina ascetic order, but later came to be used for Jaina monks.
History of Jainism | Mauryan Empire
During the 6th century BCE, Mahāvīra became one of the most influential teachers of Jainism. Jains revere him as the twenty-fourth and last Tirthankara of present cosmic age. Though, Mahavira is sometimes mistakenly regarded as the founder, he appears in the tradition as one who, from the beginning, had followed a religion established long ago.
History of Jainism | Mahavira
The two main sects of Jainism, the "Digambara" and the "Śvētāmbara" sect, likely started forming about the 3rd century BCE and the schism was complete by about 5th century CE. These sects later subdivided into several sub-sects such as Sthānakavāsī and Terapanthis. During Chandragupta Maurya's reign, "Acharya" Bhadrabahu moved to Karnataka to survive a twelve-year-long famine. Sthulabhadra, a pupil of "Acharya" Bhadrabahu, stayed in Magadha. When followers of "Acharya" Bhadrabahu returned, there was a dispute between them regarding the authenticity of the "Angas". Also, those who stayed at Magadha started wearing white clothes, which was unacceptable to the others who remained naked.
History of Jainism | Schism
He had handed over the leadership to the next Acharya Virasagar (1955–1957). He was followed by, in sequence, Acharya Shivasagar (1957–1969), Dharmasagar (1969–1987), Ajitasagar (1987–1990) and then Vardhamansagar (since 1990) who currently leads his sangha. There are numerous Digambar Jain monks who belong to this tradition. Acharya Gyansagar, the guru of Acharya Vidyasagar, was initiated by Acharya Shivasagar.
Shantisagar | His lineage (parampara)
The historical roots of Jainism in India date back to the 9th-century BCE with the rise of Parshvanatha and his non-violent philosophy.
History of religion | Axial age
The monk Ātmārām (1837 – 1896), who was originally a Śvetāmbara Sthānakavāsī monk and later became the mendicant leader Ācārya Vijayānandasūri, discovered upon reading early Jain texts in Prakrit and their Sanskrit commentaries that there was an abundance of references to image worship. This led him to believe that the non-Mūrtipūjaka position actually "contravened Jain scripture".
Murtipujaka | Agreements and disagreements
Jain is the title and name given to an adherent of Jainism. The term has its origin in the Sanskrit term jina ("conqueror" or "victor"). This article lists prominent individuals who have self-identified as a follower of Jainism.
List of Jains | Introduction
According to Jain texts "Vaidarbha Svami" was the leader of the Chandraprabha disciples.
Chandraprabha | Disciples
The interaction between the two religions began with the Buddha; later, they competed for followers and the merchant trade networks that sustained them. Buddhist and Jain texts sometimes have the same or similar titles but present different doctrines. Jains consider the kings Bimbisara (c. 558–491 BCE), Ajatashatru (c. 492–460 BCE), and Udayin (c. 460–440 BCE) of the Haryanka dynasty as patrons of Jainism. Jain tradition states that Chandragupta Maurya (322–298 BCE), the founder of the Mauryan Empire and grandfather of Ashoka, became a monk and disciple of Jain ascetic Bhadrabahu in the later part of his life. Jain texts state that he died intentionally at Shravanabelagola by fasting.
Jainism | Ancient
Bawa Jain (born Preminder Nath Jain February 16, 1957) is the Secretary-General for the World Council of Religious Leaders. He first presided as such at the 2000 Millennium World Peace Summit of Religious and Spiritual Leaders.
Bawa Jain | Introduction
The general consensus amongst western scholars, such as Ian Whicher and David Carpenter, is that the earliest portions of Jain siddhanta were composed around the 4th or 3rd century BCE. This may not be in agreement with Jain tradition according to which the "agamic" literature and the Purvas were passed from one heads of the order to his disciples for around 170 years after the nirvana of Mahavira. However, with time, it became difficult to keep the entire Jain literature committed to memory. In the 3rd century BCE, Chandragupta Maurya was the ruler of Magadha and Bhadrabahu, (the last knower of complete Jain "agamas") was the head of Jain community.
Śvētāmbara literature | History
Jainism (), traditionally known as Jain Dharma, is an ancient Indian religion. Jain dharma traces its spiritual ideas and history through a succession of twenty-four leaders or "tirthankaras", with the first being Rishabhanatha or also known as Adinath bhagwan of this era, whom the Jain tradition holds to have lived millions of years ago, the twenty-third "tirthankara" Parshvanatha whom historians date to 8th or 7th century BCE, and the twenty-fourth "tirthankara," Mahāvīra around 500 BCE. Jains believe that Jainism is an eternal "dharma" with the "tirthankaras" guiding every cycle of the Jain cosmology. The main religious premises of the Jain dharma are "ahiṃsā" (non-violence), "anekāntavāda" (many-sidedness), "aparigraha" (non-attachment) and "asceticism" (abstinence from sensual pleasures).
Jainism | Introduction
Jain texts and tradition believe in 24 Tirthankaras. They are depicted as five to one hundred times taller than average human beings and to have lived for thousands of years in Jain tradition. Historians only consider the last two generally based on historical figures of the 1st millennium BCE. Buddhist sources don't mention Mahavira as a founder of new tradition, but as part of an ascetic "Nirgranthas" (without knot) tradition. This has led scholars to conclude that Mahavira was not the founder, but a reformer of a tradition established by his predecessor, Parsvanatha.
History of Jainism | Tirthankaras and lineage
Muni Mohjit Vijayji, as a spiritual leader of Swetamber Jain tradition, had contributed to the book That Which Is, known as the Tattvartha Sutra to Jains. Book is recognized by all four Jaina traditions as the earliest, most authoritative and comprehensive summary of Jain religion.
Muni Mohjit Vijayji | Life
Ashoka realised his mistake, and withdrew the order.
History of Jainism | Mauryan Empire
According to von Glasenapp writing in the 1920s, it is said Hoysala King Bittideva (c. 1108–1152 CE) converted from Jainism and became a follower of Ramanuja, then ordered the Jains thrown in an oil mill and crushed if they did not convert. According to more contemporary scholars such as T. K. Tukol, the rule of Bitti Deva did not persecute or force convert Jains. He converted, but his queen Shantaladevi remained a Jaina. She was the patron of art and built Jain temples. Bittideva's general and prime minister Gangaraja, states Tukol, was "a Jaina who under the guidance of his Guru Subhachandra did many acts of piety and religion to advance the cause of Jainism".
History of Jainism | Vaishnavism
Acharya Tulsi (20 October 1914 – 23 June 1997) was a prominent Jain religious leader. He was the founder of the Anuvrata movement and the Jain Vishva Bharti Institute, Ladnun and the author of over one hundred books. Acharya Mahapragya, Acharya Mahashraman and Sadhvipramukha Kanakprabha were his disciples.
Acharya Tulsi (Jain Monk) | Introduction
Jain literature was transmitted through oral tradition and consisted of teachings of Jain leaders like Mahavira. After Bhadrabahu, the teachings became inconsistent and differences emerged among Jain leaders due to the schism of religious order into Digambara and Śvētāmbara. After the emigration of large number of Jain monks to south with Bhadrabahu, numerous councils were called to organise the sacred teachings. One of them was organised at Pataliputra. Another was organised in 2nd-century BCE in Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Kalinga (now in Odisha) during the reign of Kharavela. The council concluded with the decision to write the teachings, marking the origins of written Jain literature.
Jain literature | History
Acharya Nanesh, the eighth Achayra of Sadhumargi Jain Shravak Sangha had preached among the Balai community in 1963 near Ratlam. His followers are called "Dharmapal". In 1984, some of the Bhangis of Jodhpur came under the influence of Acharya Shri Tulsi and adopted Jainism.
Dalit | Jainism
According to Asko Parpola, the Jain deity Naigamesa, who is also referred to as Hari-Naigamesin, is depicted in early Jain texts as riding the peacock and as the leader of the divine army, both symbols of Kartikeya.
Kartikeya | Jainism
The B. Jain group was founded in 1966 by Prem Nath Jain (d. August 16, 2004). It initially started as a publishing house and then diversified into printing, homeopathic software, homeopathic study courses, bookstore, exports of handicrafts and women's accessories. In 2003, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Narayan Dutt Tiwari presented Prem Nath Jain, the Bhaskar Award for publishing.
B. Jain | History
Historians believe that a united Jain community existed before 367 BCE, about 160 years after the "moksha" (liberation) of Mahavira. The community then gradually divided into two denominations: the "Digambara" and the "Śvētāmbara". "Acharya" Kundakunda is the most revered "acharya" (preceptor) of the "Duḥṣamā" period of the present "avasarpiṇī" (descending) era. The "Kalpa Sūtra" describes Mahavira's asceticism in detail; from it, most of the ascetic practices (including the restraints and regulations) are derived:
Jain monasticism | History
Anand Rishiji Maharaj (27 July 1900 – 28 March 1992) was a Jain religious leader. The Government of India issued a commemorative postage stamp in his honour on 9 August 2002. He was awarded with the honorary title of Rashtra Sant.
Anand Rishiji | Introduction
The rock carved Jain statues in the Gwalior Fort were mostly consecrated by the Kashtha Sangh Bhattarakas. The Digambar Terapanth subsect was formed by Amra Bhaunsa Godika and his son Jodhraj Godika during 1664–1667 in opposition to the bhattakaras. The Bhattakara are the priestly class of Jainism who are responsible for maintaining libraries and other Jain institutions. The "Terapanth" sub-sect among the Digambara Jains emerged around the Jaipur (Sanganer, Amber and Jaipur region itself). Godika duo expressed opposition to the Bhattaraka Narendrakirti of Amber. Authors Daulatram Kasliwal and Pandit Todarmal) were associated with the Terapanth movement. They opposed worship of various minor gods and goddesses.
Jain schools and branches | Monastic orders
The first schism in Jainism happened around the fourth century BCE, leading to rise of two major sects, Digambara and Svetambara, which were later subdivided in further sub-sects.
Schism | Jainism
Jainism is a religion founded in ancient India. Jains trace their history through twenty-four "tirthankara" and revere Rishabhanatha as the first "tirthankara" (in the present time-cycle). Some artifacts found in the Indus Valley civilization have been suggested as a link to ancient Jain culture, but this is highly speculative and a subjective interpretation. This theory has not been accepted by most scholars because very little is known about the Indus Valley iconography and script. The last two "tirthankara", the 23rd "tirthankara" Parshvanatha (c. 8th–7th century BCE) and the 24th "tirthankara" Mahavira () are considered historical figures. Mahavira was a contemporary of the Buddha.
History of Jainism | Introduction
The Maurya dynasty started by Chandragupta has had a historic role on Indian religions. Ashoka (273–232 BCE), the grandson of Chandragupta was inspired by Buddhist ideologies. There is a reference to Jains in the edicts of Ashoka where the duties of "dhammamahatma" (law-authorities) are dealt with. The inscription reads: Ashoka's grandson Samprati (c. 224–215 BCE), is said to have converted into Jainism by a Jain monk named Suhasti according to the tradition. He lived in a place called Ujjain. It is believed that he erected many Jain temples, and the temples whose origins are forgotten were often ascribed to him in later times.
History of Jainism | Mauryan Empire
The statement ' (or, "Non-injury/nonviolence/harmlessness is the supreme/ultimate/paramount/highest/absolute duty"'/virtue/attribute/religion" — slashes are used here to present alternative denotations) is often found inscribed on the walls of the Jain temples. Like in Hinduism, the aim is to prevent the accumulation of harmful karma. When Mahavira revived and reorganised the Jain faith in the 6th or 5th century BCE, "Ahimsa" was already an established, strictly observed rule. Rishabhanatha (Ādinātha), the first Jain Tirthankara, whom modern Western historians consider to be a historical figure, followed by Parshvanatha (Pārśvanātha) the twenty-third Tirthankara lived in about the 8th century BCE. He founded the community to which Mahavira's parents belonged.
Ahimsa | Jainism
Archeological evidence suggests that Mathura was an important Jain centre between the 2nd century BCE and the 5th century CE. Inscriptions from the 1st and 2nd century CE shows that the schism of "Digambara"/"Svetambara" had already happened. King Harshavardhana of the 7th century, grew up in Shaivism following family, but he championed Jainism, Buddhism and all traditions of Hinduism. King Ama of 8th-century converted to Jainism, and Jaina pilgrimage tradition was well established in his era. Mularaja, the founder of Chalukya dynasty constructed a Jain temple, even though he was not a Jain. In the second half of the 1st century CE, Hindu kings sponsored and helped build major Jaina caves temples.
History of Jainism | Hindu kings
Historical records, for example, state that the Jain leaders lobbied Mughal emperors to ban slaughter of cow and other animals, during this 8 to 12 day period. In some cases, such as during the 16th century rule of Akbar, they were granted their request and an edict was issued by Akbar.
Cow protection movement | Jainism
Acharya Bhikshu (1726–1803) was the founder and first spiritual head of the Svetambar Terapanth sect of Jainism. He was a Devotee of Mahavira. In the initial phase of his spiritual revolution, he moved out from the group of Sthanakvasi Acharya Raghunath. That time he had 13 saints, 13 followers and 13 the basic rules. This coincidence results in the name of "Terapanth" (Thirteen Path) and he referred it as "Hey Prabhu Yaha Terapanth". The various beliefs and teachings of the religious orders of those times greatly influenced his thinking. He studied and analysed the various disciplines of the Jain religion and on this basis he compiled his own ideologies and principles of the Jain way of life.
Acharya Bhikshu (Jain Monk) | Introduction
Chandanaji became the first Jain woman to receive the title of Acharya in 1987. Followers of Jainism are called "Jains", a word derived from the Sanskrit "jina" (victor), which means an omniscient person who teaches the path of salvation. The majority of Jains currently reside in India. With four to five million followers worldwide, Jainism is small compared to major world religions. Jains form 0.37% of India's population, mostly in the states of Maharashtra (1.4 million in 2011, 31.46% of Indian Jains), Rajasthan (13.97%), Gujarat (13.02%) and Madhya Pradesh (12.74%). Karnataka (9.89%), Uttar Pradesh (4.79%), Delhi (3.73%) and Tamil Nadu (2.01%) also have significant Jain populations.
Jainism | Modern era
Ajit Prasad Jain (6 October 1902 – 2 January 1977) was an Indian politician who served as the President of the U. P. Congress Committee, member of the Constituent Assembly, Union minister and Governor of Kerala from Saharanpur, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India.
Ajit Prasad Jain | Introduction
According to a 1925 proposal of Glasenapp, Jainism's origin can be traced to the 23rd Tirthankara Parshvanatha (c. 8th–7th century BCE), and he considers the first twenty-two Tirthankaras as legendary mythical figures. According to another proposal by Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the first vice president of India, Jainism was in existence long before the Vedas were composed. The last two "tirthankara", Parshvanatha and Mahavira () are considered historical figures. Mahavira was a contemporary of the Buddha. According to Jain texts, the 22nd "Tirthankara" Neminatha lived about 85,000 years ago and was the cousin of Hindu god Krishna.
History of Jainism | Origins
Mahavira (599–527 BC), the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, developed an early philosophy regarding relativism and subjectivism known as "Anekantavada". As a result of this acceptance of alternate religious practices, the phenomenon of proselytisation is largely absent in these religions but not unknown. Converts are welcome to the Jain faith.
Proselytism | Jainism
Traditionally, the original doctrine of Jainism was contained in scriptures called Purva. There were fourteen Purva. These are believed to have originated from Rishabhanatha, the first "tirthankara". There was a twelve-year famine around fourth century BCE. At that time, Chandragupta Maurya was the ruler of Magadha and Bhadrabahu was the head of Jain community. Bhadrabahu went south to Karnataka with his adherents and Sthulabhadra, another Jain leader remained behind. During this time the knowledge of the doctrine was getting lost. A council was formed at Pataliputra where eleven scriptures called Angas were compiled and the remnant of fourteen purvas were written down in 12th Anga, Ditthivaya by the adherents of Sthulbhadra.
Jain schools and branches | Schism
According to Jain texts "Balladatta Svami" was the leader of the Suparśvanātha disciples and 20 lakh years he also achieved nirvana.
Suparshvanatha | Disciples
According to the Jain writer Jnanavimala, the Kharatara gachchha (sect) of Jain monks was established during Durlabha's reign. The group's founder Vardhamana Suri and his disciple Jineshvara visited Durlabha's court. There, Jineshvara defeated the Chaityavasins (another sect) in a philosophical debate. Durlabha conferred the title "kharatara" (very keen) on Jineshvara. When Jineshvara succeeded Vardhamana Suri as the head monk, his sect came to be known as the Kharatara gachchha.
Durlabharaja (Chaulukya dynasty) | Cultural activities
Jain and Buddhist sources show that the principle of nonviolence toward animals was an established rule in both religions as early as the 6th century BCE. The Jain concept, which is particularly strict, may be even older. Parshva, the earliest Jain leader (Tirthankara) whom modern historians consider to be a historical figure, lived in the 8th or 7th century BCE. He is said to have preached nonviolence no less radically than it was practiced in the Jain community in the times of Mahavira (6th century BCE). Between 4th and 1st centuries BCE, or perhaps as late as 5th century CE, ancient Indian philosopher Valluvar wrote an exclusive chapter on veganism or moral vegetarianism in his work Tirukkural, emphasizing unambiguously on non-animal diet (Chapter 26), non-harming (Chapter 32), and non-killing (Chapter 33).
History of vegetarianism | Early Jainism and Buddhism
The organization was founded in 2005 in Delhi. It organizes various conferences that revolve around Jain community issues.
Vishwa Jain Sangathan | History
According to Jain texts "Cakrayudha Svami" was the leader of the Shantinatha disciples.
Shantinatha | Disciples
This Digambara Jain chronology, in addition, is not reconcilable with the chronology implied in other Indian and non-Indian sources. Historians such as Irfan Habib and Vivekanand Jha assign Chandragupta's reign to c. 322-298 BCE. Upinder Singh dates his rule from 324 or 321 BCE to 297 BCE. Kristi Wiley states he reigned between 320 and 293 BCE.
Chandragupta Maurya | Date
Pandit Todarmal (1719–1766) was an eminent Indian Jainism scholar and writer. He led the creation of "terapanthi" community among the "Digambara" Jains by rejecting the authority of "bhattarakas". He wrote "moksha-marga-prakashaka". His son, Gumaniram, formed a sub-sect named "Gumanapantha" in 1770s and named it "shuddha terapantha amana" (pure "terapantha" tradition) by making the rules stricter.
Pandit Todarmal | Introduction
On 3 September 1949, while addressing a public meeting at Allahabad, the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru said: The said speech can be considered to be a clarification on Article 25 of the Constitution of India. 10.2 On 31 January 1950, the PPS to the then Prime Minister of India sent a letter to the Jain Deputation on behalf of the then Prime Minister, which reads as under: (See adjoining image for original letter)
Legal status of Jainism as a distinct religion in India | Jawaharlal Nehru
Dhank Caves (3rd-7th century CE) in Rajkot district has Jain Tirthankara carvings. Northern Gujarat became a principle center of Jainism in the 13th century CE. The earliest known Old Gujarati text "Bharat-Bahubali Ras", was written by a Jain monk. Of the most important people in Gujarat's Jain history were the Acharya Hemachandra Suri and his pupil, the Chaulukya ruler Kumarapala.
Jainism in Gujarat | History
In the middle of the 18th century, Acharya Bhikshu led a reformist movement. A philosopher, writer, poet and social reformer, he wrote 38,000 "shlokas", now compiled in two volumes as "Bhikshu Granth Ratnakar". His "Nav Padarth Sadbhav", which advocated a society free from exploitation, and is regarded as a significant philosophical composition that deals exhaustively with the nine gems of Jain philosophy.
Acharya Bhikshu (Jain Monk) | Contribution
Taken from Article on Encyclopedia of Jainism
Pandit Arjun Lal Sethi | References
Sahityacharya Dr. Pandit Pannalal Jain (1911–2001) was a distinguished Jain scholar. Dr. Kasturchand Kasliwal has regarded him as among the 20 most distinguished of the Jain scholars of 20th century His teaching career spanned 70 years, from 1931 to 2001.
Pannalal Jain | Introduction
A Jain is a follower of Jainism, a religion of India. Jain or JAIN may also refer to:
Jain (disambiguation) | Introduction
He was a major supporter or founder of these organizations.
Sahu Shanti Prasad Jain | Organizations
Within the Indian National Congress, he emerged as the leader of the Gupta-Pant faction in Faizabad.
Lallanji | Introduction
The details of the doctrine emerged in Jainism in the 1st millennium CE, from debates between scholars of Jain, Buddhist and vedic schools of philosophies.
Anekantavada | Introduction
Jain "Sangha" was established in Madurai in 5th century CE.
Sangha (Jainism) | History
Ajanbahu Jatbasha (also known as Jatba or King Jatav) is considered by historians to be founder of old Gond dynasty of Chhindwara and Nagpur, which ruled the present days territories of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and part of Maharashtra in the 16th century. Documentation of his origins and rise to power have not survived, but he is the first historical leader of the mountain Gondi people.
Ajanbahu Jatbasha | Introduction
He then led an India-wide tour as the naked monk with his followers, to various Digambara sacred sites, and he was welcomed by kings of the Maharashtra provinces. Shantisagar fasted to oppose the restrictions imposed on "Digambara" monks by British Raj and prompted their discontinuance. The colonial-era laws that banned naked monks were abolished after India gained independence.
History of Jainism | British rule
These would suggest dates for his accession of 111, 191, 264 or 274 CE respectively.
Manjushrikirti | Introduction
The statement "" is often found inscribed on the walls of the Jain temples. Like in Hinduism, the aim is to prevent the accumulation of harmful karma. When lord Mahaviraswami revived and reorganized the Jain faith in the 6th or 5th century BCE, Rishabhanatha (Ādinātha), the first Jain Tirthankara, whom modern Western historians consider to be a historical figure, followed by Parshvanatha (Pārśvanātha) the twenty-third Tirthankara lived in about the 8th century BCE. He founded the community to which Mahavira's parents belonged. Ahimsa was already part of the "Fourfold Restraint" ("Caujjama"), the vows taken by Parshva's followers. In the times of Mahavira and in the following centuries, Jains were at odds with both Buddhists and followers of the Vedic religion or Hindus, whom they accused of negligence and inconsistency in the implementation of Ahimsa.
Nonviolence | Jainism
He was initiated as a Jain "yati" (a Jain monk who stays in the same place) by Hemavijay at Udaipur on Vaishakh Shukla 5 Vikram Samvat 1904 (in 1848 CE) and given a new name, Ratnavijay. He was the first yati initiated in the 19th century. Later his name was changed to Rajendrasuri upon his elevation to acharya rank. He studied under Pramodsuri and Jain yati monk Sagarchand. Dharanendrasuri, impressed by his scholarship, appointed him as his "daftari". Ratnavijay was disappointed with the luxurious life of Dharanendrasuri and left him in 1864 AD. Later he became the leader of Tapa Gaccha.
Rajendrasuri | Ascetic life
"Jnatiputra" is identified with Mahavira, 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. The legend states that on complaint from a Buddhist devotee, Ashoka issued an order to arrest the non-Buddhist artist, and subsequently, another order to kill all the Ajivikas in Pundravardhana. Around 18,000 followers of the Ajivika sect were executed as a result of this order. Sometime later, another Nirgrantha follower in Pataliputra drew a similar picture. Ashoka burnt him and his entire family alive in their house. He also announced an award of one dinara (silver coin) to anyone who brought him the head of a Nirgrantha heretic. According to "Ashokavadana", as a result of this order, his own brother was mistaken for a heretic and killed by a cowherd.
History of Jainism | Mauryan Empire
The organization was founded in 1899. It was originally found to represent the Jains of the southern Maratha Country of the Bombay Presidency, including Kolhapur State, Belgaum and Sangli. The organization was established for the socio-economic and educational betterment of the Jain community. It has been credited for fostering a stronger sense of Jain identity and for ushering in social reforms in the Jain community. The association sought to invest authority in lay persons rather than in ascetics, this resulted in mobilization of the community to build schools and improve education. The current president of the organization is Raosaheb A.
Dakshin Bharat Jain Sabha | History
When Mahavira revived and reorganized the Jain community in the 6th century BCE, "ahimsa" was already an established, strictly observed rule. Parshvanatha, a tirthankara whom modern Western historians consider a historical figure, lived in about the 8th century BCE and founded a community to which Mahavira’s parents belonged. Parshvanatha’s followers vowed to observe "ahimsa"; this obligation was part of their "caujjama dhamma" (Fourfold Restraint). In the times of Mahavira and in the following centuries, Jains criticized Buddhists and followers of the Vedic religion or Hindus for negligence and inconsistency in the implementation of ahimsa. In particular, they strongly objected to the Vedic tradition of animal sacrifice with subsequent meat-eating, and to hunting.
Jain vegetarianism | Historical background
Jainism is an ancient Indian religion of obscure origins. Jains claim it to be eternal, and consider the first "tirthankara" Rishabhanatha as its earthly founder. Scholars have conjectured that images such as those of the bull in Indus Valley Civilization seal are related to Jainism. It is one of the "Śramaṇa" traditions of ancient India, those that rejected the Vedas, and according to the philosopher Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, it existed before them. The historicity of first twenty two Tirthankars is not traced yet. The 23rd tirthankar, Parshvanatha, was a historical being, possibly of the eighth century BCE. Mahāvīra is considered a contemporary of the Buddha, in around the 5th century BCE.
Jainism | Ancient
Sudharmaswami ( or Sudharman; 607 BC – 507 BC) was the fifth ganadhara of Mahavira. All the current Jain acharyas and monks follow his rule.
Sudharmaswami | Introduction
Jain monasticism refers to the order of monks and nuns in the Jain community and can be divided into two major denominations: the "Digambara" and the "Śvētāmbara". The monastic practices of two the major sects vary greatly, but the major principles of both are identical. Five "mahāvratas" (Great Vows), from Mahavira's teachings, are followed by all Jain ascetics. Historians believe that a united Jain "sangha" (community) existed before 367 BCE, about 160 years after the "moksha" (liberation) of Mahavira. The community then gradually divided into the major denominations.
Jain monasticism | Introduction
According to Jain history, late in his life, Chandragupta renounced the empire he built and handed over his power to his son, became a Jain monk, and headed to meditate and pursue spirituality in the Deccan region, under the Jain teacher Bhadrabahu at Shravanabelagola. There state Jain texts, he died by fasting, a Jain ascetic method of ending one's life by choice ("Sallenkana-Vrata"). Jain legends state that there was a twelve-year famine that triggered him to perform the fast, but this legend is only found in the Jain textual tradition. The 3rd century BCE emperor Ashoka, in his pillar edicts, mentions several ancient Indian religious groups including the "Niganthas" (Jain).
History of Jainism | Mauryan Empire
Jainism became popular in the dynasty in the 8th century when the ruler King Shivamara I constructed numerous Jain "basadis". King Butuga II and minister Chavundaraya were staunch Jains which is evident from the construction of the Gommateshwara monolith. Jains worshipped the twenty four "tirthankars" ("Jinas") whose images were consecrated in their temples. The worship of the footprint of spiritual leaders such as those of Bhadrabahu in Shravanabelagola from the 10th century is considered a parallel to Buddhism. Some brahminical influences are seen in the consecration of the Gomateshwara monolith which is the statue of Bahubali, the son of "Tirthankar Adinatha" (just as Hindus worshipped the sons of Shiva).
Western Ganga dynasty | Religion
Historically Jainism was practiced by many communities across India. They are often conservative and are generally considered upper-caste. In 1958, a Sthanakvasi Jain called Muni Sameer Muni came into contact with members of the Khatik community in the Udaipur region, who decided to adopt Jainism. Their centre, Ahimsa Nagar, located about four miles from Chittorgarh, was inaugurated by Mohanlal Sukhadia in 1966. Sameer Muni termed them "Veerwaal", i.e. belonging to Mahavira. A 22-year-old youth, Chandaram Meghwal, was initiated as a Jain monk at Ahore town in Jalore district in 2005. In 2010 a Mahar engineer called Vishal Damodar was initiated as a Jain monk by Acharya Navaratna Sagar Suriji at Samet Shikhar.
Dalit | Jainism
This, states von Glasenapp, contributed to a decline of "Jaina church", particularly in South India.
History of Jainism | Hinduism
Jain tradition states that Chandragupta Maurya (322–298 BCE), the founder of the Mauryan Empire and grandfather of Ashoka, became a monk and disciple of Jain ascetic Bhadrabahu during later part of his life. According to historians, Chandragupta story appears in various versions in Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu texts. Broadly, Chandragupta was born in a humble family, abandoned, raised as a son by another family, then with the training and counsel of Chanakya of "Arthashastra" fame, Chandragupta either first gained power in the Nanda Empire then conquered the Punjab region, or vice versa, but ultimately built one of the largest empires in ancient India.
History of Jainism | Mauryan Empire
Buddha found a Middle Way that ameliorated the extreme asceticism found in the "Śramaṇa" religions. Around the same time, Mahavira (the 24th "Tirthankara" in Jainism) propagated a theology that was to later become Jainism. However, Jain orthodoxy believes the teachings of the "Tirthankaras" predates all known time and scholars believe Parshvanatha (c. 872 – c. 772 BCE), accorded status as the 23rd "Tirthankara", was a historical figure. The Vedas are believed to have documented a few "Tirthankaras" and an ascetic order similar to the "Śramaṇa" movement.
History of India | Buddhism and Jainism
According to von Glasenapp there is a story, whose historical accuracy is doubtful. The story states that Gardabhilla (c. 19th century BCE), the king of Ujjain, abducted a nun who was the sister of a Jain monk named Kalaka. The brother sought the help of the Indo-Scythian ruler Saka Sahi. The Saka went to war with Gardabhilla, defeated him, and expelled the king of Ujjain. The Sakas settled in the new lands, and "danced like bees" around the foot of monk Kalaka. The story continues to the son of the vanquished king Gardabhilla who was Vikramaditya. He is claimed to have defeated the Sakas, expelled them, himself followed Jainism and gave ancient India the Vikrami calendar with the zero date of 57 or 58 BCE.
History of Jainism | Indo-Scythians
It was established by Dev Kumar Jain in 1903. One day he saw a person selling old and rare books; to save those books he bought them and started collecting old and rare books. Nearly four decades ago it started coming under Magadh University and later after the establishment of Veer Kunwar Singh University it was associated with it.
Jain Siddhant Bhawan | History
According to Padmanabh Jaini, Vasudhara Dharani, a Buddhist work was among the Jainas of Gujarat in 1960s, and a manuscript was copied in 1638 CE. The Dharani was recited by non-Jain Brahmin priests in private Jain homes.
Buddhism and Jainism | Buddhist Texts in Jain Libraries
Acharya Bhutabali (7th century CE) was a Digambara monk. He along with Acharya Pushpadanta composed the most sacred Jain text," Satkhandagama.".
Bhutabali | Introduction
This is how Jains believe the Digambara and Śvētāmbara schism began, with the former being naked while the latter wore white clothes. Digambara saw this as being opposed to the Jain tenet of "aparigraha" which, according to them, required not even possession of clothes, i.e. complete nudity. In the 5th-century CE, the Council of Valabhi was organized by Śvētāmbara, which Digambara did not attend. At the council, the Śvētāmbara adopted the texts they had preserved as canonical scriptures, which Digambara has ever since rejected. This council is believed to have solidified the historic schism between these two major traditions of Jainism.
Jainism | Traditions and sects
Tapa Gaccha was founded by Jagatchandrasuri in Vikram Samvat 1285 (1229 CE). He was given the title of "Tapa" (i.e., the meditative one) by the ruler of Mewar. It was a branch of the "Brihad Gaccha" founded by Udyotan Suri. Vijaydevsuri (1600–1657 AD) is considered one of major leader of lineage. They reformed monastic order of Svetambara Jainism. As a result of this reform, most Svetambara Jain monks today belong to Tapa Gaccha. Kharatara Gaccha was founded by Vardhamana Suri (till 1031). His teacher was a temple-dwelling monk. He rejected him because of not following texts. His pupil, Jineshvara, got honorary title 'Kharatara' (Sharp witted or Fierce) because he defeated Suracharya, leader of Chaityavasis in public debate in 1023 at Anahilvada Patan.
Gaccha | Present Gacchas
10.3 Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, the former President of India, in his book "Indian Philosophy Vol I" mentioned as under: 15. Dr. Radhakrishnan, who edited the 6th Volume of The Cultural Heritage of India, mentioned as under:
Legal status of Jainism as a distinct religion in India | Dr. S. Radhakrishnan
The period of 16th to 18th century was a period of reforms in Jainism. The following schools arose during this period :
Jain philosophy | Medieval traditions
Champat Rai Jain was born on 6 August 1867 in Delhi, India. He was married at the age of 13. In 1892, he went to England to study law, and became a barrister. Champat Rai Jain was a Digambara, whose writings represent that sect's propaganda with his personal interpretations, according to Robert Williams. Jain became a part of a Digambara group presenting Digambara point of view in the 1920s and 1930s such as with Jagadarlal Jaini, Nathuram Premi, Jugalkishor Mukhtar and Hiralal Jain. Jain was the founder of the Jaina mission in London. He died on 2 June 1942. He was a barrister-at-law, orator, writer, and attempted to explain Jainism with modern age psychology and science terminology.
Champat Rai Jain | Life
Pandit Niraj Jain (31 October 1926 – 27 March 2013) was a scholar of Jainism, archaeologist, poet and speaker. His contributions to Jain studies span nearly 60 years. He was also an expert on Urdu poetry, which is unusual for a Jain scholar. He was associated with several organisations. He also lectured on the Ramayana He was a proponent of preserving historical nature of ancient temples. He had travelled and lectured widely in India and overseas
Niraj Jain | Introduction
Prabhācandra (c. 11th century CE) was a Digambara monk and author of several philosophical books on Jainism.
Prabhācandra | Introduction
Champat Rai Jain (1867–1942) was a Digambara Jain born in Delhi and who studied and practiced law in England. He became an influential Jainism scholar and comparative religion writer between 1910s and 1930s who translated and interpreted Digambara texts. In early 1920s, he became religiously active in India and published essays and articles defending Jainism against misrepresentations by colonial era Christian missionaries, contrasting Jainism and Christianity. He founded Akhil Bharatvarsiya Digambara Jain Parisad in 1923 with the aim of activist reforms and uniting the south Indian and north Indian Digambara community. He visited various European countries to give lectures on Jainism.
Champat Rai Jain | Introduction
Jain literature too mentions Pūraṇa Kassapa, Makkhali Gosāla and Sañjaya Belaṭṭhaputta. During the life of Buddha, Mahavira and the Buddha were leaders of their śramaṇa orders. Nigaṇṭha Nātaputta refers to Mahāvīra. According to Pande, Jainas were same as the Niganthas mentioned in the Buddhist texts, and they were a well established sect when Buddha began preaching. He states, without identifying supporting evidence, that "[Jainas] appear to have belonged to the non-Vedic Munis and Sramanas who may have been ultimately connected with pre-Vedic civilization". The śramaṇa system is believed by a majority of Jaina scholars to have been of independent origin and not a protest movement of any kind, were led by Jaina thinkers, and were pre-Buddhist and pre-Vedic.
Śramaṇa | Jainism
Tabbar Khan (1800-1801) 44. Jabbar Khan (1801-1812) 45. Dharam Bux Khan (1812-1832) Manager-Shuklal Dewan 46. Kalindi Rani (1832-1873 47. Harish Chandra Rai Bahadur (1873-1885) 47A. Court of Wards (Nil Chandra Dewan & Trilochan Dewan) (1885-1897) 48. Bhuvan Mohan Roy (1897-1934) 49. Nalinaksha Roy (1934-1951) 50. Tridev Roy (1951-1971) 50A. Samit Roy [Regent](1971-1977) 51. Devashish Roy (1977-present)
Chakma Circle | List of leaders
Recent events lead to dissatisfaction with the monastic tradition and its related emphasis on austerities saw the arising of two new sects within Jainism in the 20th century. These were essentially led by the laity rather than ascetics and soon became a major force to be reckoned with. The non-sectarian cult of Shrimad Rajchandra, who was one of the major influences on Mahatma Gandhi, is now one of the most popular movements. Another cult founded by Kanjisvami, laying stress on theological determinism and "knowledge of self", has gained a large following as well.
Jain philosophy | Recent developments
After Dharasena's pupils Pushpadanta and Bhutabali, even that was lost. In course of time, the canons of Svetambara were also progressively lost. About 980 to 993 years after the death of Mahavira, a council was held at Vallabhi in Gujarat. This was headed by Devardhi Ksamashramana. It was found that the 12th Anga, the Ditthivaya, was lost too. The other Angas were written down. This is a traditional account of schism. According to Svetambara, there were eight schisms ("Nihvana"). According to "Digambara" tradition, "Ganadhara" knew fourteen "Purva" and eleven "Anga". Knowledge of "Purva" was lost around 436 years after Mahavira and "Anga" were lost around 683 years after Mahavira.
History of Jainism | Literature
Anil Jain is an Indian Surgeon and Political Leader. He was the National General Secretary of BJP and also in charge of BJP's Haryana and Chhattisgarh units. He is patron of Integrated Talent Development Mission (ITDM)
Anil Jain (Uttar Pradesh politician) | Introduction
The oldest Tirthankara statue wearing a cloth is dated in 5th century CE. "Digamabara" statues of tirthankara belonging to Gupta period has half-closed eyes. In 17th-century CE, "adhyatma" movement in Agra led to rise of "terapanthi" and "bisapanthi" sub-sects based on the differences over acceptance of authority of "bhattarakas". King Jai Singh II (1688-1743) of Amer kingdom built separate temples for the two sub-sects in his newly established capital of Jaipur. "Terapanthis", led by scholars like Pandit Todarmal and Banarasidas, rejected the authority of "bhattarakas".
Digambara | History