Who are JAINS?

Quite often, we Jains are asked - Who are you, Hindu or Buddhist? In my last post I pointed out that hinduism, buddhism and jainism are totally different religions with different religious beliefs. So what does JAIN symbolize? Who is a JAIN?

To answer this question, lets first talk about our GOD, Tirthankaras. Tirthankaras are the ones who have absolute control over their senses (Indriyas) and they have absolute knowledge (Keval Gyan). They have risen above their sins and defeated their Karmas. Alternatively, they are referred to as JIN. Therefore, in Jainism, a savior who has succeeded in crossing over life's stream of rebirths and has made a path for others to follow is called JIN. The people who idolize and look upto JIN Bhagwan call themselves JAIN.

The next question that comes to our mind is who can follow JAINISM? Can only JAINS follow this religion? The answer to this is NO. Anyone who is sympathetic towards other living creatures, who is a believer of non-violence (Ahinsa) and whose ultimate goal is to be free from the cycle of birth and death, that is to attain salvation (moksha) can follow JAINISM.

Who is a true JAIN?

A true JAIN is the one who must refrain from these 7 bad habits, often referred to has SAPT KUVYASAN -

1. Shikar / Hunting : Hunting and killing animals for fun or recreation is a sin that opens the gates of hell (NARAK).

2. Maasahar / Non-vegetarianism : Eating animals make our body a graveyard. One must refrain from eating non-veg food in all circumstances.

3. Chori / Stealing : Stealing quite often becomes a habit. First one steals small things. If not caught, the person starts to steal big things which leads to slander and insult. We should not indulge in such petty habits.

4. Madirapaan / Drinking Alcohol : Alcohol ruins the life of the person who consumes it as well as his near and dear ones. Drinking alcohol makes one loose his senses and it can result in misconduct and misbehavior. It deteriorates the health of the consumer as well.

5. Jua / Gambling : Gambling is another habit which is addictive. It makes one loose his sense in the greed for winning money.

6. Par-stri gaman / Extra - marital affairs : Having any sort of physical relationship outside of marriage is considered a sin.

7. Vaishyagaman / Prostitution : Prostitution also makes one loose his wealth, dignity and respect.

A true JAIN must refrain from these 7 bad habits to increase the good karmas in his/ her account and decrease the bad karmas. This will in turn pave the way to achieve the ultimate goal of salvation or moksha.

Coming up next will be a gist about Navkar Mantra.

Stay tuned.

Stay blessed.

Love to all

Neha Jain