Jainism chronologically preceded the religion of Buddhism. It is considered as one of the oldest religions of India. Jainism in India shared with Hinduism and Buddhism. It is an integral part of South Asian religious belief and practice, but it is not a Hindu sect and not a Buddhist heresy, as earlier scholars believed.
Jainism is one of the ancient religions founded by MAhavir and is based on non-violence .
Jainism under Maurya Empire saw a great change developing among the people. A schism came about among the followers of Lord Mahavira and those of Parshvanatha. Followers of Mahavira did not wear any clothes whereas the followers of Parshvanatha were allowed to wear clothes.
Jainism Reform Movements in Modern India took place in a number of ways. The Jains tried to form a number of organisations in the society which fostered the growth of Jainism among the people.
Nirvana is basically a Sanskrit word which means "blowing out" and in the Buddhist philosophy it is the extinguishing of
Vows in Jainism comprise of Minor vows like ahimsa, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession.
Triratna in Jainism is the path to achieve the highest happiness in securing emancipation from the cycle of birth and death, thus attaining liberation.
Sravaka in Jainism is the one who listens or one whose sins flow away. He is the follower of the basic vehicle who strives to attain the level of an Arahant.
Jainism in South India was highly patronised by many eminent Jain scholars, poets and Acharyas. It was also propagated by several dynasties like Maurya Dynasty, Sangama Dynasty, Tuluva Dynasty and many others.
During the Harsha`s period, Jain religion was prevalent at certain places in the northern India.
Principles of Jainism has given importance to the path of renunciation as the ultimatum for attaining Moksha.
Jainism in North India had started right from the early days. The rulers of North India were very tolerant towards various religious faiths and they were the ones who had actually propagated Jainism in the northern part of India.
Jainism in Gujarat had spread mainly because of the royal patronage. The various rulers in the state had established a number of structures which testify to the fact that Jainism had a strong hold in the state of Gujarat.
Jainism in the Deccan region had a strong hold. In the regions like Mysore, Kannada and areas of Mumbai and Madras Presidency Jainism had received an upsurge by the royal families.
Decline of Jainism in India was mainly due to other growing religious faiths like Buddhism and the Vedic Brahmanic religion. The tenets of these religions disregarded the principles of Jainism and many places brought about a number of converts.
History of Jainism in India can be traced to ancient times till the advent of Delhi Sultanate in India. The fate of Jainism differed with varying time periods.
Canonical Literature of Jainism has a lot of richness. Most of the Jain Literature are of the spiritual genre and are philosophical and theological in nature.
Jainism in Bihar had a strong hold. All the great rulers of the state had encouraged the growth of Jainism.
Concept of Atman or Soul in Jainism means an embedded being. It is believed in Jain Philosophy that the soul or the atman is the ultimate knower and enjoyer of all things.
Nature of God in Jain Cosmology says that God is not the creator or destroyer of the universe. The nature of God according to Jainism is state of perfect being.
Caste System in Jainism is an important aspect of Jain society. Jainism divides society into a number of castes and sub-castes
Tantra in Jainism has had an unavoidable influence. The rules for psychological and physical discipline, beliefs in magical rites do indicate the elements of Tantrism in it.
Influence of Jainism on Indian culture has revealed that their contribution has enriched the Indian culture.
Modern History of Jainism is well recognised and is followed by many people. Jainism has also significantly contributed towards the development of literature.
Ancient History of Jainism can be traced back to the time of Bhagwan Rishabh Dev. It was under the reign of Chandragupta Maurya that Jainism gained recognition.
