Mahavir Jayanti is a day of faith, devotion and faith across India and in the message of peace. On this day, it is the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. Apart from being significant to the Jain community, it acts as an inspiration for humanity to tread upon the path of truth, nonviolence and restraint.
Life of Lord Mahavir
He was born in 599 BCE in Kundalpur, Bihar, to Lord Mahavir. He was the son of King Siddhartha from the Licchavi dynasty and Queen Trishala from a republican noble clan. From childhood, Mahavir seems to be very sensitive and a person of renunciation and in search of the truth. In his thirties he renounced both royal luxury, family, and the toils of asceticism.
After spending 12 years on rigorous meditation, penance and silence, he came to have Kevalgyan (omniscience). Mahavir was given the calque name of ‘Jin’, which means Great Hero, and one who has conquered their senses. The rest of his life he spent in the propagation of Dharma for the welfare of humanity.
Religious and Social Significance of Mahavir Jayanti
The festival of Mahavir Jayanti signifies the reaffirmation of human values in addition to it being a religious festival, according to Pandit Bal Kishan Sharma, President of Mahabodhi Society. Special prayers, rituals, Abhishek (ceremonial getting rid of idols), Kalash yantras (processions), and religious discourses are organized by the Jain community. In this way, temples are beautifully designed, and various charitable activities such as free medical camps, donations of food and book distribution are done all over the country.
The Five Core Principles Taught by Lord Mahavir
- Non-violence (Ahimsa): Any living being has a soul; therefore, no harm is to be done to any creature. Mahavir stressed the practice of non-cruelty or violence, both in thought, word and deed.
- Vohanah (Goodness of Mind): This goodness of mind enables one to speak the truth. He teaches the truth in all aspects of life.
- Asteya (Non-stealing): One must not take anything that is not willingly given.
- Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity): Control over desires and passions is essential for spiritual growth.
- Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness): Detachment from material possessions leads to inner peace and liberation.
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