Teaching of Mahavira & Spread of Jainism

Jainism has its roots in ancient India and is one of the oldest faiths in existence. In the sixth century BCE, it became a unique philosophical and ethical system, partly as a result of the teachings of its spiritual founder, Mahavira.
This article discusses the fundamental teachings of Mahavira and the subsequent growth of Jainism, emphasizing the religion's long-lasting influence on some facets of Indian culture and beyond.

1. Mahavira's Life & Teachings:
Mahavira, also known as Vardhamana, was born around 599 BCE in what is now the Indian state of Bihar. He was the 24th and final Tirthankara, a Jain spiritual leader who finds liberation and helps others do the same. The pre-existing religious traditions that were prominent in ancient India were expanded upon by Mahavira's teachings.

2. Ahimsa (Nonviolence):
The core principle of Jain philosophy is ahimsa or nonviolence. Mahavira emphasized the significance of nonviolence in action, speech, and philosophy. Jains exhibit immense compassion for all living things, including the tiniest germs, and believe that all life is sacred.

3. Anekantavada (Non-absolutism):
Mahavira popularised the idea of anekantavada, which emphasizes accepting other points of view while rejecting absolutist viewpoints. He urged his followers to adopt a comprehensive view of reality, admitting that truth is complex and that different people may interpret it in various ways.

4. Austere Practises:
Mahavira preached self-control and separation from material goods while leading an austere existence. He emphasized the value of self-control, meditation, fasting, and austerity to achieve spiritual purity and be freed from the cycle of birth and death.

5. Jainism's Spread:
As a result of Mahavira's teachings, Jainism progressively gathered adherents and went beyond ancient India.

There are several reasons for the spread of Jain principles:

1. Monastic Order:
Male and female ascetics who committed their lives to following Jain teachings made up the monastic order Mahavira founded. These nuns and monks were instrumental in spreading Mahavira's teachings and Jainism throughout the world.

2. Oral Tradition:
The majority of Jain teachings were passed down orally before being written down in the form of texts called Agamas. Mahavira's teachings have been preserved and passed down through the years thanks to the tireless efforts of Jain academics and religious authorities.

3. Influence:
Rulers and rich merchants who liked Jainism's ethical precepts gave it their support. By creating business networks and spreading the faith to many areas, Jain merchants were crucial to the development of Jainism.

4. Cultural Influence:
Jainism produced significant contributions to literature, art, philosophy, and architecture, among other facets of Indian culture. Jain temples and other large buildings, often known as Jain caves or temples, may be found across India and are examples of the brilliant architecture and creative expression of Jain adherents.

In Conclusion, Millions of Jain adherents today are still motivated by Mahavira's teachings, which emphasize nonviolence, non-absolutism, and austere practices. The core tenets of Jainism—compassion, self-discipline, and respect for all life—have had a significant influence on India's cultural, social, and ethical fabric and are now known around the world. Jainism has survived and flourished for thousands of years thanks to the efforts of its monastic order, oral tradition, patronage, and cultural impact.