What is Jainism?
Non-violence and kindness to living beings is kindness to oneself. |
Jainism is one of the world's oldest religions, and the least understood.
Jainism is the true "religion of peace"; its teachings promote the vital importance of nonviolence and respect towards all living things. The concept of "Ahimsa" is the principle teaching of Jainism, which involves complete nonviolence towards any organism. As a result, Jains do not consume meat, as it involves harm to an animal, nor eat plants that come from the ground as small creatures could be disturbed when these plants were pulled from the ground. Jains wear a mask to avoid inhaling small insects, and carry a broom to sweep the ground in front of them to avoid stepping on creatures. The term "Jainism" comes from the word "Jina", meaning "conqueror". In Hindi, Jain are literally called "conquerors", marking their absolute victory of their own inner enemies: attachment, desire, anger, pride, and greed. |