JAINISM

Jainism-Mahavira

The origin of Jainism shrouded in mystery in the Rig Vedic hymns they are clear references to Rishaba and Arishtanemi, of the Jaina Thirthankaras. They are also known as JINA, ‘CONQUEROR’ most of the Thirthankaras us are known only by their names and symbols.The Jains believe that they religious system is the outcome of the teachings of the 24th Thirthankaras all Khatriyas, coming one after the other. The 23^rd Thirthankaras named Parsavanatha. The next and last Thirthankaras was Vardhmana Mahavira. Thirthankara for-finder is the title of Jain patriarchs of the highest order. 

• There are 24 Tirthankaras in Jainism. The first Tirthankara was Rushabhanatha.
•  The 23rd Tirthankara was parswanath. 
• The 24th Tirthankara was Mahavira.
•  Mahavira was born in 540 B.C at Kundagrama in Vaisali. 
• His father Siddhartha was a head of Jnatrika tribe. 
• His mother Trishala was a princess of Lichavi. 
• Mahavira became a monk at the age of 30. 
• He attained Nirvana at the age of 43 years. 
• He died at Pava near rajgriha in 468 B.C at the age of 72.
• The three Jewels called Triratnas of Jainism are: 1.Right faith 2.Right knowledge 3.Right conduct. 
• The first Jain council held at pataliputram by Stulabahu in 3rd century B.C. 12. In this Council 
• Angas were compiled.
• The second Jaina council held at vallabhi in 5th century A.D by Swethambaras under the leadership of devaradhi Kshamasramana. 
• In this Council finalcompilation of the 12 Angas and 12 upangas took place.
•  The main sects of Jainism are: Digambaras and Swetambaras. 
• Digambaras were naked. Their leader was Bhadrabahu.
•  Swetambaras wore white garments. Their leader was Sthaulabhadra. 
• Under the leadership of Bhadrabhahu Jains migrated to Mysore in the 4th century B.C . 
• We can see jain architecture at Dilwar temples at Mount Abu–Rajasthan; Rock-cut caves at Badami; Hathigumpha cave; Udaigiri cave; Shravanabelogola; Jain tower at Chittor etc.