Jainism 1/5

Summary

The video explores an animal shelter in Ahmedabad, India, operated by Jains, followers of a 3,000-year-old religion emphasizing nonviolence. The shelter exemplifies Jain principles by ensuring no animal is killed, allowing each to die naturally. Influenced by Mahatma Gandhi, who lived in the area, Jains practice strict vegetarianism and conduct their lives with a focus on karma and liberation. The community's dedication to animal welfare is highlighted, showcasing their efforts in caring for neglected animals, particularly during crises like droughts. The video underscores the profound impact of Jain beliefs on both animal care and the broader Indian society.

Takeaways

• 🐾 The animal shelter in Amad, India, is run by Jains, followers of Jainism, a religion emphasizing nonviolence.
• 🌱 Jainism teaches rigorous adherence to nonviolence, with no animals killed, allowing them to die a natural death.
• ✌️ Mahatma Gandhi, influenced by Jainism, lived in Amad for 12 years and promoted the practice of peace, though some Jains believed he did not go far enough.
• 🧘‍♂️ Jain monks and nuns embody the ideal of nonviolence, with some even covering their mouths to avoid harming insects.
• 🔄 Jainism lacks a personal God, focusing instead on liberation achieved by enlightened souls and individual responsibility for salvation.
• 👣 Monks and nuns depend on the generosity of their followers, begging for food three times daily, which is considered a privilege for householders.
• 🌍 Jains make up less than 1% of India's population yet hold significant influence in business and industry due to their community ties.
• 📜 The teachings of Mahavir, the founder of Jainism, guide the monks and nuns as they travel and preach to lay followers.
• 💫 The law of karma is fundamental in Jain philosophy, where current suffering or joy results from actions in previous lives.
• 🐄 Jain tradition includes caring for sick and old animals, demonstrated by their extensive animal shelters, especially during crises like droughts.

Q & A

What is the primary religious principle that Jains adhere to?

Jains follow the principle of nonviolence, which is one of the most rigorous adherences to nonviolence among world religions.

How are animals treated in Jain shelters?

Animals in Jain shelters are never killed, regardless of their suffering. Each is allowed to die a natural death.

What is the significance of Mahatma Gandhi in the context of Jainism?

Mahatma Gandhi lived in Amad for 12 years and was strongly influenced by Jain principles, particularly the practice of nonviolence.

How do Jain monks and nuns exemplify their religious principles?

Jain monks and nuns aim to live a life free from violence, often covering their mouths to prevent accidentally killing insects while breathing.

What is the role of karma in Jain belief?

In Jainism, karma dictates that a person's current suffering or joy is the result of their actions in past lives, and individuals must endure suffering to atone for past misdeeds.

How does Jainism view the concept of personal salvation?

Jainism teaches that each person is responsible for their own salvation, with monks and nuns guiding them on the path to liberation (moksha).

What is the significance of the swastika in Jain culture?

The swastika symbolizes the four pillars of the Jain community: monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen.

What is the relationship between Jains and the broader Hindu community?

Although Jains constitute less than 1% of India's population, their rigorous religious practices and wealth give them considerable influence within the larger Hindu community.

How do Jain monks and nuns sustain themselves?

Jain monks and nuns rely on the generosity of their followers, begging for food three times a day, which is considered a privilege for householders to provide.

What was the controversy between Mahatma Gandhi and the Jain community regarding animal suffering?

Gandhi allowed the mercy killing of a calf, arguing it was a nonviolent act, which conflicted with Jain beliefs that the calf had to endure its suffering due to past actions, highlighting a difference in perspective on the law of karma.