The Secrets Of Jainism

AHIMSA- THE INNATE NATURE OF THE SOUL One of the most important guiding principle and the backbone of Jainism is AHIMSA (non violence ) We (jains)  have been inured since childhood, to refrain from violence and sinful acts. With the aim of nurturing humanity within us, our elders have often reminded us "Be cautious! Do not step on insects while walking.  "Do not stone stray dogs. He too experiences pain..." "She is your sister. Always protect her. Don't ever hurt her...” and similar statements are heard. Often, we hear statements like, "If you kill a living being, you bind grave sins (paap), and you will have to go to hell to repent for your sins" Keeping all this in  mind , there is one question which should ring a bell in our head. Is non-violence merely the act of NOT hurting somebody? Or Should I practice Ahimsa (non-violence) from the fear of going to hell?   Nonviolence is a very broad philosophy, and these concepts account for a mer...

JAINISM AT A GLANCE   Jainism is an ancient religion from India that teaches that the way to liberation and bliss is to live lives of harmlessness and renunciation. The essence of Jainism is concern for the welfare of every being in the  universe  and for the health of the universe itself.  Jains believe that animals and plants, as well as human beings, contain living souls. Each of these souls is considered of equal value and should be treated with respect and compassion. Jains are strict vegetarians and live in a way that minimises their use of the  world's resources . Jains believe in  reincarnation  and seek to attain ultimate liberation - which means escaping the continuous cycle of birth, death and rebirth so that the immortal soul lives for ever in a state of bliss. Liberation is achieved by eliminating all  karma from the soul . Jainism is a religion of self-help. There are no  gods  or spiritual beings that will he...