Jainism

Question 1

Jain

Answer 1

A follower of Jainism, an ancient Indian religion that emphasizes non-violence (ahimsa), truth, and asceticism. They believe in the path of liberation through the elimination of karma and the realization of the soul’s purity

Question 2

Jivamukti

Answer 2

In Jainism, it refers to the liberation of the soul while still alive. It occurs when a person achieves Kevala (omniscience) and has freed their soul from the bonds of karma, allowing them to live in a state of enlightenment

Question 2

Kevala

Answer 2

Refers to the state of omniscience or perfect knowledge, achieved when a soul is freed from all karmic impurities. It is the ultimate goal in Jainism, equivalent to enlightenment or moksha

Question 3

Mahavira

Answer 3

The 24th and last Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) of Jainism. He is considered the founder of Jainism in its present form and emphasized the principles of non-violence (ahimsa), truth, and asceticism

Question 4

Tirthankaras

Answer 4

Spiritual teachers and enlightened beings in Jainism who have achieved liberation and guide others on the path to moksha. There are 24, with Mahavira being the last

Question 5

Digambaras

Answer 5

“Sky-clad” is one of the two main sects of Jainism. The monks practice extreme asceticism and wear no clothing, symbolizing their complete renunciation of worldly possessions. They also believe that women must be reborn as men to achieve liberation

Question 6

Shvetambaras

Answer 6

“White-clad” is a major sect of Jainism, whose monks wear simple white robes. Unlike Digambaras, They believe that women can achieve liberation without having to be reborn as men

Question 7

Jiva

Answer 7

In Jainism, it refers to the soul, which is eternal and present in all living beings. The goal of Jain spiritual practice is to free the Jiva from the karmic impurities that bind it to the cycle of birth and death (samsara)

Question 8

Jina

Answer 8

“Conqueror,” and refers to a soul that has overcome karma and the cycle of samsara. They are also called a Tirthankara, as they guide others to liberation

Question 9

3 Beliefs (Jainism)

Answer 9

They are ahimsa, aparigraha, and anekantwad. Together, these form the path to spiritual liberation

Question 10

Ahimsa (Jainism)

Answer 10

Non-violence; the fundamental principle of Jainism. It involves non-violence in thought, word, and action toward all living beings

Question 11

Aparigraha

Answer 11

The principle of non-attachment to material possessions and desires. It emphasizes simplicity and the renunciation of excess

Question 12

Anekantwad

Answer 12

The Jain principle of “many-sidedness” or the belief that truth and reality are complex and cannot be understood from a single perspective. It encourages tolerance and openness to different viewpoints

Question 13

Elephant Story

Answer 13

A parable used in Jainism to illustrate Anekantwad (many-sidedness). In the story, several blind men touch different parts of an elephant and each believes they understand the whole animal, though each perspective is partial

Question 14

Festival of Atonement (Paryushana)

Answer 14

One of the most important Jain festivals, lasting eight to ten days. It is a time of fasting, self-discipline, and introspection, where Jains seek to atone for their sins and reflect on their spiritual progress

Question 15

Day of Forgiveness (Samvatsari)

Answer 15

The last day of the Festival of Atonement. On this day, Jains ask for forgiveness from others for any harm they may have caused, intentionally or unintentionally, during the past year

Question 16

Bahubali Statue

Answer 16

Located in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka. A massive stone statue of Bahubali, a revered Jain figure who achieved Kevala (omniscience) through deep meditation and non-violence

Question 17

Shri Chitrabhanu

Answer 17

A prominent Jain spiritual leader and scholar who helped spread Jain teachings in the West. He emphasized the importance of non-violence, compassion, and spiritual practice in modern life