Jain Culture

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Part of a series on
Jainism
Jain prayers Bhaktamara Stotra Micchami Dukkadam Ṇamōkāra mantra Jai Jinendra
Philosophy Anekantavada Cosmology Ahimsa Karma Dharma Mokṣa Kevala Jnana Dravya Tattva Brahmacharya Aparigraha Gunasthana Saṃsāra
Ethics Ethics of Jainism Sallekhana
Major figures The 24 Tirthankaras Rishabha Pārśva Mahavira Arihant Ganadhara Kundakunda Siddhasena Samantabhadra Haribhadra Yashovijaya
Major sects Digambara Śvētāmbara
Texts Samayasāra(Digambara) Pravachanasara(Digambara) Agama(Shwetambara) Tattvartha Sutra Dravyasamgraha(Digambara) Kalpa Sūtra(Shwetambara)
Other History Jain flag Jain symbols Parasparopagraho Jivanam Schools and Branches Timeline Topics list
Festivals Diwali Mahavir Jayanti Paryushana Samvatsari
Pilgrimages Tirth Abu Palitana Girnar Shikharji Shravanabelagola

Jain Culture Overview

Jain culture is an ancient and influential cultural tradition that originated in ancient India. It is closely associated with the Jain religion, which is one of the major religions in India along with Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism. Jainism emphasizes non-violence (ahimsa), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), and self-discipline as key principles for leading a virtuous life.

Here are some key aspects of Jain culture:

Non-violence (Ahimsa): The most important principle in Jain culture is ahimsa, which means non-violence or non-injury to all living beings. Jains believe in respecting and protecting all forms of life, from the smallest insects to humans.

Vegetarianism: Due to the emphasis on non-violence, Jains follow a strict vegetarian diet. Many Jains also avoid eating root vegetables to minimize harm to plants.

Meditation and Self-discipline: Jain culture encourages meditation, introspection, and self-discipline as means to attain spiritual purification and liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death (samsara).

Renunciation: Jain monks and nuns practice a life of renunciation, forsaking all material possessions, and living a life of simplicity and asceticism.

Temples and Pilgrimage: Jainism has a rich tradition of building beautifully carved temples and shrines. These temples are important centers for worship and pilgrimage for Jains.

Sacred Literature: Jainism has a vast collection of sacred texts, known as Agamas or Jain scriptures. These texts provide guidelines for religious practices and moral conduct.

Festivals: Jains celebrate various festivals to commemorate significant events in the lives of their spiritual leaders (Tirthankaras) and to reaffirm their commitment to the principles of Jainism. Some of the important festivals include Mahavir Jayanti (birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira), Paryushana (a period of self-reflection and fasting), and Diwali (celebrated as the day Lord Mahavira attained nirvana).

Art and Architecture: Jain culture has contributed significantly to Indian art and architecture. Intricate carvings and sculptures on Jain temples are well-known for their detailed craftsmanship.

Non-attachment to Material Possessions: Jains believe in minimizing their attachment to material possessions and leading a simple life focused on spiritual growth.

Jain culture has played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of India and has influenced other religious traditions and philosophies. Its emphasis on non-violence and compassion continues to inspire individuals worldwide to lead a life of ethical and moral conduct.

Jain Monk

A Jain monk, also known as a "munivar" or "sadhvi" for females, is an individual who has chosen to renounce worldly life and dedicate themselves entirely to the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and liberation within the context of Jainism. Jain monks follow a life of extreme asceticism, detachment, and self-discipline in order to attain moksha (liberation) from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). Here are some key aspects of Jain monks:

Renunciation: Jain monks renounce all material possessions, family ties, and social responsibilities. They wear simple, white robes and often have a cloth to cover their mouths to prevent accidentally harming small organisms through breathing or speaking.

Non-violence (Ahimsa): Jain monks uphold the principle of ahimsa to the highest degree. They take great care to avoid causing harm to any living being, often using brooms to gently sweep the ground before them to prevent stepping on insects.

Austerities: Jain monks practice extreme austerities, including fasting, self-mortification, and meditation, to purify their souls and overcome karmas that bind them to the cycle of birth and death.

Meditation and Self-Reflection: Monks spend a significant portion of their time in meditation, self-contemplation, and studying sacred texts. They strive to detach themselves from worldly desires and attachments.

Spiritual Teachings: Jain monks play a crucial role in disseminating Jain philosophy and teachings. They often travel from place to place, delivering sermons and conducting religious discourses to educate people about Jain principles.

Community Support: Lay Jains provide support to monks by offering them food, shelter, and other necessities. This practice also offers laypeople an opportunity to accumulate good karma by contributing to the monks' spiritual pursuits.

Hierarchy: Jain monks adhere to a hierarchical system based on their level of spiritual advancement. The highest rank is that of an Acharya, who is a senior monk with profound knowledge and wisdom. Acharyas guide the Jain community in matters of doctrine and conduct.

Paryushana: This is an annual period of self-reflection, fasting, and intensified spiritual practices observed by both monks and lay Jains. It is considered a time for seeking forgiveness and making amends.

Pilgrimages: Jain monks often undertake pilgrimages to holy sites associated with the lives of the Tirthankaras (spiritual leaders) and other important figures in Jain history.

Liberation: The ultimate goal of a Jain monk is to achieve liberation (moksha) by shedding all karmas and attaining a state of pure consciousness, free from the cycle of birth and death.

Jain monks are highly respected in Jain society for their commitment to spiritual growth, selflessness, and dedication to the principles of Jainism. Their austere lifestyle and teachings continue to inspire and guide Jain communities around the world.

List of Jain Monks

Digambar - Acharyas

Acharya Shri Aadi Sagarji ( Anklikar ) M. S.

Acharya Shri Abhinandan Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Amritchandraji M. S.

Acharya Shri Anant Kirtiji M. S.

Acharya Shri Bahubali Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Bharat Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Chandra Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Deshbhushanji M. S.

Acharya Shri Dhrambhushan Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Jai Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Kundakunda M. S.

Acharya Shri Mahavir Kirti Sagar M. S.

Acharya Shri Nemichand Siddhant Chakravartiji M. S.

Acharya Shri Nirmal Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Puspadanta Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Rayan Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Sanmati Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Shanti Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Shiv Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Siddant Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Sunil Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Surya Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Uma Swamiji M. S.

Acharya Shri Vidyabhushan Sanmati Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Vidyanand Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Vimad Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Vimal Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Vimarsh Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Virag Sagarji M. S.

Acharya Shri Vishuddha Sagarji M. S.

आचार्य श्री ज्ञान सागरजी म. सा.

आचार्य श्री पुण्य सागरजी म. सा.

आचार्य श्री वर्धमान सागरजी म. सा.

आचार्य श्री वसुनंदी मुनिराजजी म. सा.

आचार्य श्री विद्या सागरजी म. सा.

आचार्य श्री विमल सागरजी म. सा.

आचार्य श्री वीर सागरजी म. सा.

आचार्य श्री शिव सागरजी म. सा.

आचार्य श्री श्रुत सागरजी म. सा.

Digambar - Muni

Adi Sagarji M. S.

Adi Sagarji M. S.

Adi Sagarji M. S.

Ajit Sagarji M. S.

Ajit Sagarji M. S.

Amrit Sagarji M. S.

Anand Sagarji M. S.

Anand Sagarji M. S.

Anekant Sagarji M. S.

Apurav Sagarji M. S.

Arah Sagarji M. S.

Arun Sagarji M. S.

Ativeerji M. S.

अतुल्य सागरजी म. सा.

अपूर्व्य सागरजी म. सा.

अमित सागरजी म. सा.

आर्जव सागरजी म. सा.

उत्तम सागरजी म. सा.

चिन्मय सागरजी म. सा.

निरंजन सागरजी म. सा.

निरालस सागरजी म. सा.

निराश्रव सागरजी म. सा.

निर्ग्रन्थ सागरजी म. सा.

निर्णय सागरजी म. सा.

निर्भ्रान्त सागरजी म. सा.

निर्माण सागरजी म. सा.

निर्वेग सागरजी म. सा.

निशंक सागरजी म. सा.

निश्चिन्त सागरजी म. सा.

पवित्र सागरजी म. सा.

पावन सागरजी म. सा.

पुण्य सागरजी म. सा.

पुराण सागरजी म. सा.

प्रयोग सागरजी म. सा.

प्रसाद सागरजी म. सा.

मार्दव सागरजी म. सा.

संभव सागरजी म. सा.

सुधा सागरजी म. सा.

Bahubali Sagarji M. S.

Bahubali Sagarji M. S.

Bhadra Sagarji M. S.

Bharat Sagarji M. S.

Bhav Sagarji M. S.

Bhavya Sagarji M. S.

Bhavyasenji M. S.

Bhootbaliji M. S.

Bhupendra Sagarji M. S.

Budhi Sagarji M. S.

Chandra Kirtiji M. S.

Chandra Sagarji M. S.

Chandramatiji M. S.

Charan Sagarji M. S.

Charitra Sagarji M. S.

Charitramatiji M. S.

Chidanandji M. S.

Chitrabhanu Gurudevji M. S.

Chritra Sagarji M. S.

Darshan Sagarji M. S.

Devendra Kirtiji M. S.

Devendra Sagarji M. S.

Dharam Sagarji M. S.

Dharm Kirtiji M. S.

Dharm Sagarji M. S.

Dharm Sagarji M. S.

Dharm Sagarji M. S.

Dharma Matiji M. S.

Dharsen Sagarji M. S.

Ganesh Kirtiji M. S.

Gautam Sagarji M. S.

Gun Sagarji M. S.

Gunbhadraji M. S.

Gupti Sagarji M. S.

Guptinandji M. S.

Gyan Sagarji M. S.

Hem Sagarji M. S.

Jambu Sagarji M. S.

Jay Kirtiji M. S.

Jay Sagarji M. S.

Jay Sagarji M. S.

Jaybhadraji M. S.

Jinbhadraji M. S.

Jinendra Sagar M. S.

Kailash Sagarji M. S.

Karuna Sagarji M. S.

Kirti Sagarji M. S.

Kshama Sagarji M. S.

Kulbhushanji M. S.

Kunthu Sagarji M. S.

Kunthu Sagarji M. S.

Kunthu Sagarji M. S.

Mahabaliji M. S.

Mahavir Kirtiji M. S.

Mahendra Sagarji M. S.

Malli Sagarji M. S.

Man Sagarji M. S.

Manibhadra Sagarji M. S.

Manoharlal Varniji M. S.

Mati Sagarji M. S.

Megh Sagarji M. S.

Muni Divya Sagar Ji M. S.

Muni Shri Praman Sagarji M. S.

Nami Sagarji M. S.

Nang Sagarji M. S.

Nem Sagarji M. S.

Nemi Sagar M. S.

Nemi Sagarji M. S.

Nemi Sagarji M. S.

Nijanand Sagarji M. S.

Niklank Sagarji M. S.

Nipash Sagarji M. S.

Nirag Sagarji M. S.

Niraj Sagarji M. S.

Nirakul Sagarji M. S.

Niramay Sagarji M. S.

Nirbhik Sagarji M. S.

Nirdosh Sagarji M. S.

Nirih Sagarji M. S.

Nirlobh Sagarji M. S.

Nirmad Sagarji M. S.

Nirog Sagarji M. S.

Nirupam Sagarji M. S.

Nirvan Sagar Ji M. S.

Nirvan Sagarji M. S.

Nirvan Sagarji M. S.

Nirwan Sagarji M. S.

Nisarg Sagarji M. S.

Nischal Sagarji M. S.

Niskam Sagarji M. S.

Niskamp Sagarji M. S.

Nispandh Sagarji M. S.

Nisprh Sagarji M. S.

Nissang Sagarji M. S.

Nissim Sagarji M. S.

Niyam Sagarji M. S.

Padam Sagarji M. S.

Parmanand Sagarji M. S.

Parshwa Kiritji M. S.

Parshwa Sagarji M. S.

Parshwa Sagarji M. S.

Parwachan Sagarji M. S.

Payal Sagarji M. S.

Pihitashravji M. S.

Pooran Sagarji M. S.

Prabal Sagarji M. S.

Prabodh Sagarji M. S.

Pragya Sagarji M. S.

Pramukh Sagarji M. S.

Pranamya Sagarji M. S.

Prasan Sagarji M. S.

Prashant Sagarji M. S.

Prateek Sagarji M. S.

Pulak Sagarji M. S.

Puran Sagarji M. S.

Ratan Sagarji M. S.

Ratankirti Sagarji M. S.

Ravi Sagarji M. S.

Rayan Sagarji M. S.

Rishabh Sagarji M. S.

Samadhi Sagarji M. S.

Samantbhadraji M. S.

Samata Sagarji M. S.

Samata Sagarji M. S.

Samay Sagarji M. S

Sambhav Sagarji M. S.

Samkit Sagarji M. S.

Samta Sagarji M. S.

Samta Sagarji M. S.

Samveg Sagarji M. S.

Sanmarg Sagarji M. S.

Sanmati Sagarji M. S.

Sanmati Sagarji M. S.

Sanveg Sagarji M. S.

Saral Sagarji M. S.

Saurabh Sagarji M. S.

Shambhu Sagarji M. S.

Shanti Sagarji M. S.

Shanti Sagarji M. S.

Shanti Sagarji M. S.

Shanti Sagarji M. S.

Sheetal Sagarji M. S.

Sheetal Sagarji M. S.

Shravan Sagarji M. S.

Shreyans Sagarji M. S.

Shrut Sagarji M. S.

Sidh Sagarji M. S.

Sidhant Sagarji M. S.

Subahu Sagarji M. S.

Subuddi Sagarji M. S.

Sudarshan Sagarji M. S.

Sudha Sagarji M. S.

Sudharm Sagarji M. S.

Sudharma Sagarji M. S.

Sukh Sagarji M. S.

Sumati Sagarji M. S.

Sumati Sagarji M. S.

Sumati Sagarji M. S.

Sumati Sagrji M. S.

Suparshwa Sagarji M. S.

Suparshwa Sagarji M. S.

Suvrat Sagarji M. S.

Tarun Sagarji M. S.

Teerath Sagarji M. S.

Udai Sagarji M. S.

Uday Sagarji M. S.

Uday Sagarji M. S.

Uday Sagarji M. S.

Uday Sagarji M. S.

Uttam Sagarji M. S.

Vairagya Sagarji M. S.

Vardhman Sagarji M. S.

Vardhman Sagarji M. S.

Vardhman Sagarji M. S.

Vardhman Sagarji M. S.

Varisen Sagarji M. S.

Vasupujya Sagarji M. S.

Veer Bhushanji M. S.

Veer Sagarji M. S.

Vibhanjan Sagarji M. S.

Vibhav Sagarji M. S.

Vihasant Sagarji M. S.

Vijay Bhadraji M. S.

Vijay Bhushanji M. S.

Vijay Sagarji M. S.

Vijay Sagarji M. S.

Vijay Sagarji M. S.

Vijay Sagarji M. S.

Vijay Sagarji M. S.

Vijay Sagarji M. S.

Vijaysen Sagarji M. S.

Vimal Sagarji M. S.

Vimal Sagarji M. S.

Vimarsh Sagarji M. S.

Vinarghya Sagarji M. S.

Vinay Sagarji M. S.

Vinay Sagarji M. S.

Viney Sagarji M. S.

Vinishchal Sagarji M. S.

Vipul Sagarji M. S.

Vir Sagarji M. S.

Vir Sagarji M. S.

Vir Sagarji M. S.

Vir Sagarji M. S.

Vir Sagarji M. S.

Vir Sagarji M. S.

Vishad Sagarji M. S.

Visharad Sagarji M. S.

Vishok Sagarji M. S.

Vishrant Sagarji M. S.

Vishrut Sagarji M. S.

Vishudh Sagarji M. S.

Vishvabhushan Sagarji M. S.

Vishvajeet Sagarji M. S.

Vishvajyoti Sagarji M. S.

Vishvamurti Sagarji M. S.

Vishvaratan Sagarji M. S.

Vishvashanti Sagarji M. S.

Vishvasheel Sagarji M. S.

Vishvast Sagarji M. S.

Vishvaveer Sagarji M. S.

Vishvayash Sagarji M. S.

Vishvesh Sagarji M. S.

Vivek Sagarji M. S.

Vrishabh Sagarji M. S.

Vrishabh Sagarji M. S.

Vrishabh Sagarji M. S.

Vrishabh Sagarji M. S.

Yashsvi Sagarji M. S.

Yatindra Sagarji M. S.

Yog Sagarji M. S.

Yogendra Sagarji M. S.

Yogendratilak Shanti Sagarji M. S.

Yoginder Sagarji M. S

Jain Ethics

The ethics of Jainism are deeply rooted in the fundamental principles of the religion, with a strong emphasis on non-violence (ahimsa), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), and respect for all forms of life. Jain ethics provide guidelines for leading a virtuous and compassionate life, fostering spiritual growth and liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). Here are the key ethical principles of Jainism:

Ahimsa (Non-violence): Ahimsa is the foundational principle of Jain ethics. Jains believe in avoiding harm to all living beings, whether they are humans, animals, plants, or even microscopic organisms. Jain ethics extend the concept of non-violence to thoughts, words, and actions. Jains strive to cultivate a mindset of compassion and harmlessness towards all living beings.

Satya (Truthfulness): Jains place great importance on truthfulness. Practicing truthfulness involves being honest in thoughts, words, and deeds. Jain ethics encourage individuals to avoid lying, deceit, and misleading others.

Asteya (Non-stealing): The principle of asteya emphasizes not taking what is not rightfully earned or belonging to someone else. Jains are encouraged to practice honesty in their economic and social dealings.

Brahmacharya (Chastity or Celibacy): Brahmacharya in Jain ethics involves exercising restraint over one's sensual desires and leading a life of moderation and self-control.

Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness): Aparigraha is the principle of non-attachment to material possessions and worldly desires. Jain ethics advocate a simple and minimalist lifestyle, avoiding unnecessary accumulation of wealth and possessions.

Anekantavada (Non-absolutism): Anekantavada is the doctrine of non-absolutism or non-one-sidedness. It recognizes the multiplicity of viewpoints and encourages individuals to be tolerant and respectful of diverse perspectives.

Parigraha-Parimana (Limitation on Possessions): Jain ethics prescribe certain limitations on the number and nature of possessions to avoid attachment and minimize potential harm caused by accumulation.

Kshama (Forgiveness): Kshama is the virtue of forgiveness and patience. Jains believe in forgiving those who have caused harm and seeking forgiveness from others for any harm they may have caused, intentionally or unintentionally.

Daya (Compassion): Daya refers to compassion and empathy towards all living beings, leading to a genuine desire to alleviate their suffering and promote their well-being.

Penance and Self-discipline: Jain ethics encourage self-discipline and penance as a means of purifying the soul and mitigating the effects of past actions.

Environmental Stewardship: Jains emphasize the importance of environmental conservation and respect for nature, given their reverence for all forms of life.

By adhering to these ethical principles, Jains aim to achieve spiritual purification, minimize karmic bondage, and progress towards attaining liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death. These ethics also foster a sense of harmony, non-violence, and compassion towards all living beings and promote a peaceful and sustainable coexistence with the environment.

Jain Literature

Jain literature is a vast and rich collection of sacred texts, philosophical treatises, commentaries, and other writings that form the foundation of Jain religious teachings and philosophical thought. Jain literature is primarily composed in various ancient Indian languages like Prakrit, Sanskrit, and Apabhramsha. Some of the most significant works in Jain literature include:

Agamas: The Agamas are the canonical scriptures of Jainism, and they are believed to be the teachings of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, transmitted orally by ascetics and later compiled into written texts. The Jain Agamas are divided into two main categories: Angas and Angabahyas. The Angas consist of 12 texts, while the Angabahyas include 12 additional texts. The Agamas cover various aspects of Jain philosophy, ethics, and practices.

Tattvartha Sutra: Also known as the Tattvarthadhigama Sutra, this is a fundamental Jain philosophical text attributed to Acharya Umasvati, a Jain scholar and philosopher who lived around the 2nd century CE. The Tattvartha Sutra provides a comprehensive overview of Jain cosmology, metaphysics, and the path to liberation.

Samayasara: Written by Acharya Kundakunda, Samayasara is a significant Jain text that explores the path to spiritual liberation through the practice of right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct (Samyag Darshan, Samyag Jnana, and Samyag Charitra).

Yogaśāstra: Attributed to Acharya Hemachandra, this text discusses the yoga (spiritual discipline) for the soul's purification and liberation. It delves into the concepts of self-restraint, meditation, and other spiritual practices.

Niyamasara: Written by Acharya Kundakunda, Niyamasara is a Jain text that emphasizes the principles of ethical conduct and spiritual discipline for aspirants on the path to liberation.

Pravachanasara: Authored by Acharya Kundakunda, this text is a comprehensive guide on spiritual conduct and behavior, focusing on the importance of renunciation, non-violence, and other virtues.

Panchastikayasara: Another important work by Acharya Kundakunda, Panchastikayasara discusses the fivefold Jain doctrine, which includes soul (jiva), matter (pudgala), motion (dharma), rest (adharma), and space (akasha).

Kalpa Sutra: The Kalpa Sutra is a biography of Lord Mahavira, describing his life and teachings in detail.

Harivamsa Purana: An important Jain text that narrates the life stories of the Jain Tirthankaras.

These are just a few examples of the vast and diverse corpus of Jain literature. Jain scholars have continued to preserve and interpret these texts over the centuries, contributing to the development and continuity of Jain philosophy and spiritual practices

Jain Festivals

Jainism has a number of festivals that hold religious and cultural significance for its followers. These festivals commemorate important events in Jain history, honor Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers), and provide opportunities for spiritual reflection, fasting, and community gatherings. Here are some of the major Jain festivals:

Mahavir Jayanti: Celebrated on the 13th day of the bright half of the month of Chaitra (March/April), Mahavir Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. Devotees visit temples, offer prayers, engage in charitable activities, and listen to discourses on Lord Mahavira's teachings.

Paryushana Parva: Also known as "Das Lakshana" or "Saman Suttam Parva," Paryushana is an eight-day festival of self-purification and spiritual renewal. It usually falls in the months of August or September. During Paryushana, Jains engage in fasting, intense meditation, self-reflection, and listen to religious discourses. The last day of Paryushana is known as "Samvatsari," when Jains seek forgiveness and ask for forgiveness from others for any harm they may have caused.

Diwali: While Diwali is celebrated by various religious communities in India, Jains observe it as a significant festival. For Jains, Diwali marks the attainment of nirvana (liberation) by Lord Mahavira. It falls on the new moon day of the month of Kartika (October/November). Jains light lamps, offer prayers, and engage in acts of charity to celebrate this occasion.

Navapad Oli: Navapad Oli is a nine-day festival of intense fasting and spiritual practice observed by Digambara Jains. It typically takes place in the month of Bhadrapada (August/September) and involves focusing on the nine types of austerity and self-discipline.

Kartik Purnima: Celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Kartika (October/November), Kartik Purnima is a day of special prayers and offerings to Tirthankaras. It marks the day when Lord Mahavira attained omniscience (Kevala Jnana).

Gyan Panchami: Observed on the fifth day of the bright half of the month of Margashirsha (November/December), Gyan Panchami commemorates the day when Lord Mahavira's chief disciple, Gautam Swami, was given the title of "Acharya" by Mahavira.

Ratha Yatra: Jain Ratha Yatra involves the ceremonial procession of the idol of Lord Mahavira on a decorated chariot. This festival signifies the Tirthankara's renunciation of worldly attachments and his journey towards spiritual enlightenment.

Akshaya Tritiya: Celebrated on the third day of the bright half of the month of Vaishakha (April/May), Akshaya Tritiya is considered an auspicious day for charitable acts, donations, and performing acts of virtue.

These are some of the main festivals celebrated by Jains. Each festival holds its own unique significance and provides opportunities for followers to deepen their spiritual practice, engage in acts of kindness, and strengthen their sense of community.

References

Sources

• Alsdorf, Ludwig (1962), Beiträge zur Geschichte von Vegetarismus und Rinderverehrung in Indien, Wiesbaden
• Chatterjee, Asim Kumar (2000), A comprehensive history of Jainism, 1 (2nd rev. ed.), New Delhi: Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers, ISBN 81-215-0931-9
• Dundas, Paul (2002) [1992], The Jains (Second ed.), London and New York City: Routledge, ISBN 0-415-26605-X
• Granoff, Phyllis (1992), "The Violence of Non-Violence: A Study of Some Jain Responses to Non-Jain Religious Practices", Journal of the International Association of Buddhist Studies, 15
• Goyal, Śrīrāma (1987), A history of Indian Buddhism, Meerut: Kusumanjali Prakashan
• Jain, Champat Rai (1917), The Practical Path, The Central Jaina Publishing House This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain.
• Jain, Jagdishchandra (1984), Life in Ancient India as Depicted in the Jain Canon and Commentaries (2nd ed.), New Delhi
• Jain, Vijay K. (2012), Acharya Amritchandra's Purushartha Siddhyupaya: Realization of the Pure Self, With Hindi and English Translation, Vikalp Printers, ISBN 978-81-903639-4-5 This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain.
• Jindal, K.B. (1988), An epitome of Jainism, New Delhi
• Laidlaw, James (1995), Riches and Renunciation. Religion, economy, and society among the Jains, Oxford
• Lodha, R.M. (1990), Conservation of Vegetation and Jain Philosophy, in: Medieval Jainism: Culture and Environment, New Delhi
• Sangave, Vilas Adinath (1980), Jaina Community (2nd ed.), Bombay: Popular Prakashan, ISBN 978-0-317-12346-3
• Shah, Natubhai (2004) [First published in 1998], Jainism: The World of Conquerors, I, Motilal Banarsidass, ISBN 81-208-1938-1
• Tähtinen, Unto (1976), Ahimsa. Non-Violence in Indian Tradition, London
• Tiruvaḷḷuvar (2000), Tirukkuṟaḷ (Tirukural : ethical masterpiece of the Tamil people), trans. Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, New Delhi: Abhinav Publications, ISBN 81-7017-390-6
• Wiley, Kristi L. (2006), Flügel, Peter, ed., Ahimsa and Compassion in Jainism, in Studies in Jaina History and Culture, London

External links

• Media related to [[commons:|]] at Wikimedia Commons
• List of Foods that are not-Jain

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