Jainism Religion
Jainism was born in India in the 6th century B.C, making it one of the oldest religions in the world (Religion Facts). Although it is little known outside of India, it has played a huge role to other religions. This ancient religion has influenced both Hinduism and Buddhism, therefore they all share similar cultures. However, there are some factors that separate Jainism from the rest while also influencing them. Jainism’s belief and living, compassionate practices, and symbols: including holidays and festivals are what makes Jainism unique while it helped develop the other religions.
Ahimsa Dharma translates to “The Religion of Non-Violence” which is the central teaching of Jainism. They strongly emphasize the importance …show more content…
The most recognized symbol found in the religion is the Ahimsa Hand which represents the practice of non-violence (Religion facts). The symbol is a hand faced upwards with all fingers straight up and beside each other. The hand is positioned this way because it portrays the abhaya mudra, meaning “no fear”. There is a blue circle wheel at the palm which is said to be the “wheel of life”. Inside, at the center of the wheel there is the word ahimsa written at the center, which means stop. The hand sends the message that we should stop and think before we harm any form of life. It also symbolizes fearlessness, assurance that we shouldn’t be afraid. This hand is also used in Hinduism where it represents “half of reincarnation through the pursuit of truth” (Journal). Aside from physically symbols, other symbols that Jains celebrate are holy days. The Mahavira Jayanti is a festival that celebrates the birth date of Mahavira. The day is spent by Jains gathering in temples where readings and teaching of Mahavira are spoken out loud. Outside, through the streets are pictures of Mahavira are shown with ceremony. The purpose of this day is to worship him and appreciate all that he has done and taught. Another important day that is celebrated is Paryushana festival, which means to ‘stay in one place’ where reflection is done on the Jain devotee. This event lasts 8 days consisting of intensive fasting, repentance and pujas. There are also monks there who give teachings to the people. Jainism’s symbols are significant to its own religion as well as other religions who use it for their own meaning. The events are significant and are what make this religion fascinating and
Jainism was born in India in the 6th century B.C, making it one of the oldest religions in the world (Religion Facts). Although it is little known outside of India, it has played a huge role to other religions. This ancient religion has influenced both Hinduism and Buddhism, therefore they all share similar cultures. However, there are some factors that separate Jainism from the rest while also influencing them. Jainism’s belief and living, compassionate practices, and symbols: including holidays and festivals are what makes Jainism unique while it helped develop the other religions.
Ahimsa Dharma translates to “The Religion of Non-Violence” which is the central teaching of Jainism. They strongly emphasize the importance …show more content…
The most recognized symbol found in the religion is the Ahimsa Hand which represents the practice of non-violence (Religion facts). The symbol is a hand faced upwards with all fingers straight up and beside each other. The hand is positioned this way because it portrays the abhaya mudra, meaning “no fear”. There is a blue circle wheel at the palm which is said to be the “wheel of life”. Inside, at the center of the wheel there is the word ahimsa written at the center, which means stop. The hand sends the message that we should stop and think before we harm any form of life. It also symbolizes fearlessness, assurance that we shouldn’t be afraid. This hand is also used in Hinduism where it represents “half of reincarnation through the pursuit of truth” (Journal). Aside from physically symbols, other symbols that Jains celebrate are holy days. The Mahavira Jayanti is a festival that celebrates the birth date of Mahavira. The day is spent by Jains gathering in temples where readings and teaching of Mahavira are spoken out loud. Outside, through the streets are pictures of Mahavira are shown with ceremony. The purpose of this day is to worship him and appreciate all that he has done and taught. Another important day that is celebrated is Paryushana festival, which means to ‘stay in one place’ where reflection is done on the Jain devotee. This event lasts 8 days consisting of intensive fasting, repentance and pujas. There are also monks there who give teachings to the people. Jainism’s symbols are significant to its own religion as well as other religions who use it for their own meaning. The events are significant and are what make this religion fascinating and