With reference to the religious practices in India, the “Sthanak...
Sthānakavāsī is a sect of Śvētāmbara Jainism founded by a merchant named Lavaji in 1653 AD. It believes that idol worship is not essential in the path of soul purification and attainment of Nirvana/Moksha. The sect is essentially a reformation of the one founded on teachings of Lonka, a fifteenth-century Jain reformer. Sthānakavāsins accept thirty-two of the Jain Agamas, the Śvētāmbara canon.
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With reference to the religious practices in India, the “Sthanak...
Country is known for its rich and diverse religious traditions. India is home to several major religions, including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism, among others.
Hinduism is the dominant religion in India, with the majority of the population identifying as Hindus. It is a complex and diverse religion with numerous deities and rituals. Hindu worship practices vary widely across different regions, but the most common form of worship involves visiting temples, making offerings to the deities, and participating in religious festivals.
Islam is the second-largest religion in India, with a significant Muslim population. Muslims in India follow the teachings of Prophet Muhammad and worship in mosques. Friday prayers, fasting during Ramadan, and pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj) are important religious practices for Muslims.
Christianity in India has a long history, dating back to the arrival of the Apostle Thomas in the first century AD. Christians in India belong to various denominations, including Roman Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox. Worship practices include attending church services, reading the Bible, and participating in sacraments such as baptism and communion.
Sikhism originated in Punjab, a region in northern India, during the 15th century. Sikhs follow the teachings of Guru Nanak and believe in the concept of "One God." Worship for Sikhs involves congregational prayers at a Gurudwara (Sikh temple), reading from the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy book), and participating in communal meals (langar).
Buddhism, which originated in India but later declined, still has some followers in the country. Buddhist worship involves meditation, chanting of mantras, and paying homage to the Buddha's relics or statues. Important Buddhist sites, such as Bodh Gaya and Sarnath, attract pilgrims from around the world.
Jainism, another ancient religion originating in India, teaches non-violence and asceticism. Jains worship in temples, practice meditation, and follow strict ethical codes. They also celebrate important events in the lives of their revered Tirthankaras (spiritual leaders).
Religious practices in India are not limited to these major religions. There are several indigenous tribal religions, as well as smaller communities practicing Judaism, Zoroastrianism, and other faiths.
Overall, religious practices in India are diverse and deeply rooted in the country's cultural fabric. The coexistence of multiple religions has resulted in a unique religious landscape, where individuals freely practice their faith while respecting the religious beliefs of others.