Question

Give a brief account of the life of Lord Mahavira. Explain his teachings regarding:
(a) The Five Vows
(b) Belief in God
(c) Rejection of Rituals
(d) Treating People on an Equal basis

Answer 1

Mahavira is the name most commonly used to refer to the Indian sage Vardhamana. Who established what are today considered to be the central tenets of Jainism. Mahavira was born to king Sidharatha and Queen Trishala on the 13th day under the rising moon of the Chaitra. While still in his mother’s womb it is believed he brought wealth and prosperity to the entire kingdom, which is why he was also known as Vardhaman. Though Vardhaman was instructed in all branches of knowledge, he showed more interest in spiritual matters. After attaining spiritual knowledge, he travelled from place to place preaching his doctrines. He received supports from the royal families of Kosala, Magadha, Avanti, etc.
(a) The Five Vows: Mahavira laid great emphasis on the principle of Ahimsa. It is a term meaning do not harm (literally the avoidance of violence-himsa). Ahimsa is a rule of conduct that bars the killing or injuring of living beings. Besides Ahimsa, the Jains were required to take vows of not telling a lie, not to steal, non-attachment to wordy things and celibacy, i.e., Brahmacharya.
(b) Belief in God: Mahavira did not believe in the existence of God. He had no faith in the theory that God created the world. According to him, man is responsible for his own destiny. Emancipation from suffering does not depend upon any outside power. Man can escape from his misery and suffering only through leading a life of renunciation.
(c) Rejection of Rituals: Mahavira did not attach any importance to the meaningless rites and ceremonies and the sacrificial rituals of the Brahmanical religion.
(d) Treating people on an Equal Basis: Mahavira believed in the equality of all human beings. All have the right to attain Nirvana by leading a pure life. He preached that there should not be any discrimination on grounds of castes. He even favored the freedom of woman and allowed them to join the Jain Sangha.