Jainism
Welcome to Jain Resource Centre
What is Jainism?
Jainism, traditionally known as Jain Dharma, is an ancient Indian
religion. Followers of Jainism are called "Jains", a word derived from
the Sanskrit word jina, meaning "victor".
There are five (5) great Vows (Maha-vratas) of Jainism:
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Non-violence
(Ahimsa)
Non-violence is the cornerstone of Jainism. No living being has a right to harm, injure, or kill any other living being, including animals, insects, and plants.
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Celibacy/Chastity
(Brahmacharya)
Total abstinence from sensual pleasure and the pleasure of all five senses are called celibacy.
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Non-possessiveness/Non-attachment
(Aparigraha)
An attachment to worldly objects results in the bondage to the cycle of birth and death.
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Truthfulness
(Satya)
Truth is to be observed in speech, mind, and deed. One should not utter an untruth, ask others to do so, or approve of such activities.
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Non-Stealing
(Asteya/Achaurya)
Stealing consists of taking another's property without his consent, or by unjust or immoral methods. Further, one should not take anything which does not belong to him.