Notions of time and the universe, the concept of soul, the workings of karma and the cycle of rebirth are tied together in Jain tradition. Progressing spiritually means understanding these ideas and how to live them. Practised differently by various sects, Jain beliefs are found in scriptures and symbols, with fine examples highlighted in JAINpedia manuscripts.
Principles
Karma-prakr̥ti
Known by two titles in the tradition, this rare text is a highlight of JAINpedia
Devarddhi-gaṇi
In the tradition he finalised the Śvetāmbara scriptures at Valabhī
Aṇuvrat Movement
All faiths and backgrounds join this non-religious ethical movement
Scales of Perfection
The guṇa-sthāna and the pratimā map the route to liberation in clear stages
Digambara
This sect’s name means ‘sky-clad’, from the nudity of their monks
Liberation
Jainism aims to help the soul regain perfection and be liberated
Tattvārtha-sūtra
All Jains accept this text as the only scripture containing the essential truths
Jain Mahābhāratas
This epic poem includes key figures in Jain Universal History
Eight auspicious symbols
The aṣṭa-mangala are found in art, temples, worship and everyday life
Pūrvas
Written by Mahāvīra’s disciples, these scriptures have been lost for centuries
Jainism and scientific thought
Traditional Jain principles are valuable in modern science
Śvetāmbara Stānaka-vāsīn
This sect rejects the worship of images as a religious practice