The Social And Historical Conditions Supporting Jainism

Social conditions supporting Jainism

Some of the social conditions which support Jainism include non-violence among all human beings. The non-violence is not only restricted to human counterparts but to all living organisms which include insects and animals. Therefore, the monks and nuns who practice Jainism usually walk barefoot not as a sign of poverty but to avoid harming the little crawling creatures which live on the ground. The same aspect of respecting life is seen in the fact that most Jains are strict vegetarians. The aspect of not hurting animals either domestic or wild makes it socially wrong to kill them for food (Partridge, 2005).While practicing Jainism, the participants are expected to be truthful at all times while respect for other people’s property is upheld through establishment of non-stealing guidelines. This practice makes the Jains detach themselves from worldly possessions which inhibit attainment of progressive lives for the living (Partridge, 2005).

Historical conditions supporting Jainism

The divinity which encompasses the soul is a very significant aspect of the traditions of Jainism. Human beings are therefore asked to control their thoughts as these may lead the divine soul away from its nature. Therefore, believers are requested not to waste their souls by indulging in evil ways but rather they are urged to work towards attainment of spiritual recognition. When jains are trying to live according to the laws of the religion, the aspiration is inclined towards freedom of the soul such that it escapes the barriers set up by karma. Such barriers include evil ways and thoughts which reduce the dignity associated with human kind (Partridge, 2005).

References

Partridge, C.H. (2005), Introduction to world religions. Fortress press.

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