Introduction to Jainism

Jainism is one of India's ancient philosophical traditions. Historically, it is traced back to Mahavira, a sixth-century BCE teacher, and a contemporary Buddha. Like the Buddha, Mahavira’s doctrines were formulated to respond to Brahmanism, a tradition based on the Vedic texts. Because of this, both Jainism and Buddhism are regarded as unorthodox philosophies, darsanas. The most renowned nonviolent figure of our times, Mahatma Gandhi, was inspired by nonviolence and other Jain practices. Mahatma Gandhi, in turn, inspired Dr. Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, Dalai Lama, and several other nonviolent movements globally. Today, Jains have a global presence with hundreds of temples and centers in the USA, Canada, UK, Belgium, Australia, Kenya, Nepal, Thailand, and Japan.