Jainism, Not to Be Confused with Hinduism

The word Jainism literally means conqueror. The religion dates back to the pre-historic period in regions of what is today India. Most followers of Jainism are Indian. The religion teaches believers to resist greed, lust, anger, ego, and violence.

Followers of Jainism believe in 24 role models called "Tirthankara." They are Reformers. They do not embody God however, their souls were in a pure developed state. What these 24 role models taught is what could get a soul to cross to salvation. They were humans with superhuman qualities.

Jains are often misinterpreted as Hindus. The religions are similar, but not all the same. Jains believe the purpose of life is to free oneself from one's existing karma. To do this, you must have pure thought, ideas, soul, and body. You must reject the material world.

Screeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeech!!!! Reject the material world?!?! What about my clothes, shoes, shopping at Urban Outfitters. My LV handbag and Kate Spade tote?! Hmph. I'll need to think about this one more...

Basic Principles of Jainism

1.) Non-violence to humans, animals and even plants
2.) Don't steal
3.) Monogamous relationships between male & female
4.) Don't kill
5.) Live simply by limiting personal needs

Basis Beliefs of Jainism

1.) The Universe was never created & will never be destroyed

..That one is interesting to be because it eases my fear of Doomsday that is supposedly going to occur in December 2012!

2.) After death, every soul have the ability of becoming God.
3.) The most important god is Ambika. She is the mother goddess of Jainism who symbolizes well-being, childbirth, and protection of women.

..I really like that women are so respected in this religion...it's comforting to know we are appreciated :-)

4.) Everyone is equal regardless of size, shape, or type.
5.) Nobody has the right to: injure, abuse, oppress, enslave, insult, torment, torture, or kill. Even having corrupt thoughts is wrong and is believed to lead to wrong actions.
6.) Reincarnation, or the recycle of life and death. Jains believe that you can keep being reborn until you become the best you can be, then you will be liberated from the cycle and become part of the universe called "Siddhashila," and that is the ultimate goal.

I could absolutely live my life following some of the beliefs that Jains believe, but I couldn't fully devote myself to resisting the material world. I'm too much of a girl who likes to shop and wear fun jewelry, buy shoes, etc. I only believe in one God and I know I couldn't believe that everyone has the ability to become so pure that they become a god, too. I do however, think it's good to resist greed, lust, anger, ego and violence. There is no time in life to waste hurting yourself or others.