Question

Give a brief account of the teachings of Jainism.

Hint:

When studying Jainism and Buddhism, create a comparative table. Compare their Three Jewels, Five Vows (Jainism) vs. the Eightfold Path (Buddhism), their concept of God, and their key patrons to avoid confusion.

Answer 1

The core teachings of Jainism are based on the path to liberate the soul from the cycle of rebirth (samsara) and attain moksha (liberation). The fundamental principles are:
1. The Triratnas (Three Jewels): This is the three-fold path to liberation.


Samyak Darshana (Right Faith): Belief in the teachings of the Tirthankaras.
Samyak Jnana (Right Knowledge): Correct and complete knowledge of the Jaina creed.
Samyak Charitra (Right Conduct): Living one's life according to Jaina ethical rules.
2. The Panch Mahavratas (Five Great Vows): These are the codes of conduct to be followed.


Ahimsa (Non-violence): Not to cause harm to any living being. This is the cornerstone of Jain philosophy.
Satya (Truthfulness): To speak the truth and not lie.
Asteya (Non-stealing): Not to take anything that is not willingly given.
Aparigraha (Non-possession): To detach from people, places, and material things.
Brahmacharya (Chastity): To abstain from sensual pleasures. This vow was added by Mahavir.
Jainism also emphasizes concepts like Anekantavada (many-sidedness of reality) and Syadvada (theory of conditioned predication).