Mahavira's Teachings

Mahavira, also known as Vardhamana Mahavira, was an influential spiritual leader and the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. His teachings form the foundation of Jain philosophy and provide guidance on how to attain spiritual liberation. Here are the key teachings of Mahavira:

Ahimsa (Non-violence)
- Ahimsa is the most fundamental principle of Jainism, emphasizing non-violence in thought, word, and action.
- Mahavira taught that all living beings have a soul, and intentionally causing harm to any being results in negative karma.
- He advocated for practicing non-violence towards humans, animals, and even plants.

Truthfulness and Honesty
- Mahavira emphasized the importance of truthfulness and honesty in all aspects of life.
- He believed that speaking the truth brings clarity, promotes trustworthiness, and helps in cultivating ethical behavior.

Aparigraha (Non-attachment)
- Aparigraha teaches that one should minimize possessions and cultivate non-attachment to material possessions.
- Mahavira believed that excessive attachment to worldly possessions leads to greed, selfishness, and an inability to attain spiritual liberation.

Anekantavada (Non-absolutism)
- Mahavira introduced the concept of Anekantavada, which recognizes the multi-dimensional nature of reality.
- He taught that truth can be perceived differently from different perspectives, and one should be open to considering different viewpoints.

Karma and Reincarnation
- Mahavira emphasized the concept of karma, which states that our actions have consequences that affect our present and future lives.
- He believed in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth and taught that through self-discipline and spiritual practices, one can break this cycle and achieve liberation.

Asceticism and Self-discipline
- Mahavira himself followed a life of extreme asceticism, renouncing all worldly possessions and practicing rigorous self-discipline.
- He encouraged his followers to adopt a similar lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of self-control, self-restraint, and self-discipline.

Equality and Compassion
- Mahavira preached equality and non-discrimination, emphasizing that all beings are equal and deserve compassion.
- He taught his followers to practice empathy, kindness, and compassion towards all living beings.

Spiritual Liberation (Moksha)
- The ultimate goal of Mahavira's teachings is to attain spiritual liberation or moksha.
- He believed that through the eradication of karma and the practice of self-discipline, one can attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Overall, Mahavira's teachings revolve around the principles of non-violence, truthfulness, non-attachment, non-absolutism, karma, self-discipline, equality, and spiritual liberation. These teachings continue to inspire and guide millions of Jains in their pursuit of a righteous and compassionate life.

Mahavira said that those who wish to know the truth must leave their houses. People must follow ahimsa. The jainas had to lead very simple life and very honest though out their lives. They had to give up everything.