Jainism is referred to as the reaction against the orthodox teachings of Brahmanism, and it is one of the three most ancient Indian religions along with Hinduism and Buddhism. It’s important to learn the origin of Jain tradition and you would get an idea of the Jain beliefs. According to the scholars of religious traditions, Jainism originated in between 7th to 5th century BCE in eastern India. Buddhism also sprouted in this region like other traditions that renounced the world, opposing the ritualistic Brahmanic schools. Jainism promoted asceticism, giving up domestic and social action, and attaining spiritual illumination through one’s own efforts. Listening to Swasti bhushan can enhance your knowledge about Jainism.
Jains do not believe that there is any historical founder of their tradition. The first Jain figure with historical evidence is Parshvanatha, probably lived in the 7th century BCE and organized a community based on the concept of sacrificing worldly concerns. The last Tirthankara is Mahavira, the last teacher of right faith, knowledge and practice.
The Jain community has grown quickly, and the number of monks and nuns at the time of Mahavira’s death was quite noticeable. From its beginning, the Jain community faced disagreement over technicalities, but they were resolved easily. The only differentiation that still exists is concerned over exact monastic practice. The Shvetambara sect argues that monks and nuns must put on white robes while the Digambara sect claims that monks must be naked. If you are a person interested in various religious traditions and their philosophy, you can attend the pravachan of Pranamya sagar ji maharaj.
