By the 6th century B.C., the ritualistic practices of the Later Vedic religion, growing dominance of the Brahmins, and the rigid varna system created dissatisfaction among people. Expensive sacrifices alienated the masses, while traders and artisans desired a simpler and more practical faith. Against this background, Jainism emerged as a reformist religion under the leadership of Vardhamana Mahavira. It emphasized ahimsa, renunciation, and self-discipline as the path to liberation.
Table of Contents
Mahavira
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Founder: Vardhamana Mahavira (599–527 B.C.), the 24th Tirthankara.
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Born at Kundagrama near Vaishali in a Kshatriya family.
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At the age of 30, he renounced worldly life.
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After 12 years of meditation and penance, he attained Kevala Jnana (perfect knowledge).
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Preached mainly in Magadha, Videha, Anga, and Mithila.
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Attained moksha at Pavapuri near Rajgir at the age of 72.
Principles of Jainism
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The Three Jewels: Right faith, Right knowledge, Right conduct.
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Belief in karma and rebirth.
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Strict practice of ahimsa (non-violence).
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Truth (Satya): always speaking the truth.
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Non-stealing (Asteya): not taking what is not given.
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Celibacy (Brahmacharya): practicing chastity.
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Non-possession (Aparigraha): renouncing attachment to property.
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Did not recognize the authority of the Vedas.
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Liberation attainable only through self-discipline and ascetic life.
Digambaras and Svetambaras
After Mahavira’s death, Jainism split into two sects:
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Digambaras (sky-clad): monks wore no clothes; believed women could not attain liberation without rebirth as men.
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Svetambaras (white-clad): monks wore white garments; believed women too could attain liberation.
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Spread of Jainism
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Spread widely in Magadha, Kalinga, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Karnataka.
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Became popular among merchants and traders due to its emphasis on honesty and non-violence.
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Chandragupta Maurya adopted Jainism in his later life.
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Strong roots in South India under rulers like the Gangas and Rashtrakutas.
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Preached in Prakrit, making it accessible to the common people.
Contributions of Jainism
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Promoted ahimsa, influencing Indian culture and ethics.
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Encouraged the use of Prakrit and other regional languages.
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Contributed to architecture:
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Dilwara temples at Mount Abu.
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Gomateswara statue at Shravanabelagola.
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Enriched literature in Prakrit, Kannada, and Tamil.
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Supported trade and commerce, as merchants were active followers.
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Instilled values of tolerance, simplicity, and self-discipline in society.
Key Takeaway
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Jainism emerged as a reformist religion under Mahavira, emphasizing asceticism, non-violence, and self-control.
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Its division into Digambaras and Svetambaras shaped its diversity.
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Through its spread and contributions in language, art, literature, and ethics, Jainism became a lasting part of India’s cultural and spiritual heritage.