Ethnography of Jainism

Jainism is one of the oldest religions originating in India and is often recognized for its similarities to Hinduism and Buddhism. It began in what is now the modern-day state of Bihar. Although Jainism existed before, it gained significant prominence with Mahavira, who was the last tirthankars, a spiritual teacher whose soul achieved liberation.

The primary goal of Jainism is to attain liberation, or moksha, to be freed from the endless cycle of rebirth. This is achieved by living according to the five principles of Jainism: ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (chastity), and aparigraha (non-possessiveness). While not all Jains adhere to these principles at all times, the aim is to practice them as much as possible. For instance, 92% of Jains are vegetarians, promoting ahimsa in their daily lives, with 67% avoiding root vegetables like onions, garlic, and potatoes, as uprooting these vegetables kills the entire plant. This principle is also evident in the practice of fasting on certain occasions.

Like Hinduism, Jainism believes in karma and rebirth, but it emphasizes that the ultimate goal is liberation, a concept not necessarily shared by Hinduism. Jainism holds that the soul and body are distinct entities; upon death, the soul leaves the body to inhabit a new one. The soul carries the karma accumulated from previous lives, which includes punya (good deeds resulting in good karma) and pap (bad deeds resulting in bad karma). When the cycle of accumulating karma and performing deeds ends, one achieves keval gyan, or ultimate knowledge, and is freed from the suffering and cycles of life.

As a Jain myself, I find it fascinating to compare the explanations of Jainism available online and in research with how I personally practice it. While I strongly adhere to certain elements, such as being a vegetarian, fasting on appropriate occasions, and participating in rituals and cultural events my family observes, it is interesting to see how others interpret Jainism compared to my own understanding and beliefs.

This is an image of Jain sadhus (saints) performing rituals to honor the liberated tirthankars.