Jainism My Pride

Jain dharma is not great because I was born into it, but because of its great principles. It’s a religion like none other. Our Bhagwans are free from every form of attachment. They believe in maintaining friendly terms with all forms of living beings. Here’s a brief into the greatest and oldest religion, Jainism. Many believe that Hinduism is the most ancient religion, but wait! A Hindu book Rigveda, also mentions Rishabhdev Bhagwan. Archaeologists have found Jain idols from excavating the land not just in India but also Pakistan, Afghanistan etc., which suggests a significant presence & influence of Jainism years ago, in a vast region. These idols & artefacts provide a concrete timeline for their historical presence. 

 Coming back, if the world follows Jain virtues today, 90% of the problems can get solved. The principle of non-violence (ahimsa) has gained popularity in todays nuclear weapon world filled with terrorism. Our religion disallows the killing of any animals, be it any cow, goat or ants. We believe that all living beings have the right to live & it applies to even the smallest organism. Jainism desires the well-being of the entire world and not “just me and my family.” In our sootra, Bruhad Shanti, ‘Shantirbhavtu’ means a desire that everyone stays happily 

World Navkar Day is a great example of the power of our Dharma. The PM of our country himself invoked the spiritual powers of this Mahamantra. The world realised that only the Great Namaskar Mahamantra, core of Jainism, can promote peace & harmony in a world filled with geopolitical tensions. Not only Jains, but the entire world celebrated and chanted Navkar to radiate immense peace & positivity. Truly a proud moment for the Jain community, for not just India, but the entire world recognises the power of its mantra. 

Jains are not just working for their community like building temples, but are the first ones to fulfil the needs of society. There are over 700 hospitals, 1100 diagnostic centres in India supported by the Jain community. The first Panjrapol (animal sanctuary) was developed by a Jain. Jains contribute crores in Panjrapols alone. The list just goes on and on. Jainism is widely recognised for its extensive contribution to education, healthcare and other social work. 

A handful of Jains our the first to reach and help any social cause. During the COVID pandemic, Jains have served at the risk of their lives. Research for the amount contributed by us & the number will drive you crazy. Jagdushah, Kumarpal Raja are examples of great personalities who have contributed substantially to mankind in history. Everyone believes in compassion & kindness. But the level varies from one to another. 

The modern world redefines chovihar as intermittent fasting, Ayambil a diet and Upvas as detox. If we do Pratikraman as per the Vidhi, it serves to be a workout, as it contains several asanas and mudras. Our overall diet is mainly Satvik food that helps the mind to be calm. Kausagg, dhyan chanting Navkarvali helps us improve concentration and mental health. The world treats doctors like God. If, for once, we make Bhagwan our doctor, then both our body and soul can stay healthy. 

Ahinsa, Anekantvad & Aparigraha- panacea for the ills of the present day and the planet to sustain. Our religion is good for the planet. Whether through Jiv Vichar or otherwise, we were told to reduce water and electricity usage. Have a look at the lifestyle of our Sadhus. They don’t use vehicles (but do Vihar from one place to another), don’t use refrigerators or watch TV. Use the minimum quantity of water for washing clothes. The small amount of water used to wash their vessels (Patras) is consumed by them ( like we have ‘Thali Dhoke Peena’) Their way of living minimises harm done to the environment. Jainism is a religion of ecology. The answer to global warming can only be obtained from Jainism. Many scientists have more knowledge, understanding and faith in our principles than us; they wholeheartedly believe that our Siddhants are correct and they just have to take efforts to prove it. 

“I don’t know if rebirth actually happens or not but if it does I wish to be born as a Jain”, Albert Einstein 

Our religion is so practical even today. Its like an exam paper full of options, where everyone whether, old or young, is shown a way to do Punya. You can’t do Upvas, do Ayambil, Nivi, or Navkarshi  At sunset, take Pachkhan of Chovihar, Tivihar or Duvihar . If we study the Arth of the Pachkhan, we realise that provision for emergencies has already been made. It gives everyone a chance to be in Virti. Kids can do swadhayay, which is also a form of Tap. Prayashcit, to sincerely feel sorry for a mistake made and seek forgiveness from an Aacharya. It helps us to wash away our sins, feel light and liberated from guilt. It is a depression saver. There are 4 types of Dharm: Daan, Sheel, Tap and Bhaav. That means having good thoughts is also Dharma. 

Everything that has been said in Jain dharma is by our Tirthankara after attaining keval Gyan is perfect. There is no scope or possibility of any mistake. Our religion is completely accurate, logical and scientific in all aspects. Jain dharma is a gem so lets study and understand its principles to realise its value. ‘As only if we believe in the right can our actions be headed in the correct direction.