1. Jainism By Garrett Bollinger, Amy Hammonds, and Lauren Pelaia

2. What do Jains believe? • The way to liberation form the world is to live a life of harmlessness. • The health of the universe is the most important aspect of life. • There are no gods to assist people on Earth. • Reincarnation does occur. • Jainism is very closely related to Hinduism and Buddhism.

3. Jainist Beliefs cont. • The three guiding principles are called the Three Jewels. • Right Belief • Right Knowledge • Right Conduct

4. The Five Great Vows • Also know as the Five Mahavratas. • They include… • Non violence • Non attachment to possessions • Not lying • Not stealing • Sexual restraint (even within marriage)

5. Mahavira • He is regarded as the founder or father of Jainism, but he is not considered a god. • His writings and teachings are called the Agamas. • Mahavira was a prince in India and later became ascetic. • This is the strongest tie between Jainism and Buddhism.

6. Similarities to Hinduism • Jains believe in Karma, Dharma, and reincarnation.

7. Jain Customs • Fasting • Fasting is very common among Jainist communities. • Jains will fast at any time of the year and upon personal choice. • Fasting especially occurs on holy days such as MahaviraJayanti, Paryushana, Divali, KartakPurnima, Mauna Agyaras. • Jain women tend to fast more often than male followers.

8. Pilgrimage • Most Jains complete a pilgrimage to a holy temple sometime in their life. • While on pilgrimage, some Jains take the lifestyle of a nun or monk. • The most desirable place to visit is Gujarat, a temple in the hills of India.

9. Holy Days • MahaviraJayanti • Festival that celebrates the birth of Mahavira. Jains read their holy text and parade in the street with images of Mahavira.

10. Holy Days cont. • Paryushana • Literally means “to stay in one place.” • It is a time for reflection and repentance. • The festival is eight days long and includes fasting.

11. More Holy Days • Divali • Although this festival is celebrated throughout India’s different religions, it has a special significance to Jains. • According to an ancient story, Mahavira gave his last teachings on Divali. • Parents often give their children sweets and other gifts on this day. • Divali is followed by KartakPurnima which is the holiest time for pilgrimages.

12. Jain Sects • Jainism has two very distinct sects.