The Philosopher
Mahavira
The face
The background
- Schools:
- Jainism
The synopsis
Mahavira, whose birth name was Vardhamana, is revered as the 24th and final Tirthankara in Jainism. While traditional Jain accounts place his birth in 599 BCE and death in 527 BCE, historical scholarship suggests a life span between the 6th and 5th centuries BCE. He is credited with reviving and reforming the Jain community, likely building upon the teachings of his predecessor, Parshvanatha. Mahavira is central to Jain philosophy, emphasizing the pursuit of spiritual liberation through rigorous asceticism, meditation, and adherence to five core vows: ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truthfulness), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (chastity), and aparigraha (non-attachment). His teachings also included the doctrine of anekantavada, the principle of many-sided reality. His legacy lies in the systematic codification of Jain philosophy and the establishment of the four-fold Jain community, enabling the religion's preservation.
The works
The quotes
If one undertakes retrospection of the day's events, one must do it regularly at the appointed hour, not fitfully, not doing it today, neglecting to do it tomorrow and the day after and then taking it up again on the fourth day. Such irregular practice is not conducive to the confirmation of the habit of retrospection.
By sincerity, a man gains physical, mental and linguistic straightforwardness, and harmonious tendency; that is, congruence of speech and action.
If you want to cultivate a habit, do it without any reservation, till it is firmly established. Until it is so confirmed, until it becomes a part of your character, let there be no exception, no relaxation of effort.
One who neglects or disregards the existence of earth, air, fire, water and vegetation disregards his own existence which is entwined with them.
Modes are infinite, and laws are infinite.
All souls are equal and alike and have the similar nature and qualities.
Eating constitutes the greatest obstacle to self-control; it gives rise to indolence.
The most important principle of environment is that you are not the only element.
Anger begets more anger, and forgiveness and love lead to more forgiveness and love.
Live and allow others to live; hurt no one; life is dear to all living beings.
Attachment and aversion are the root cause of karma, and karma originates from infatuation. Karma is the root cause of birth and death, and these are said to be the source of misery. None can escape the effect of their own past karma.
All are my friends. I have no enemies.
The nature of things is dharma.
Start the practice of self-control with some penance; begin with fasting.
Soul is the central point of spiritual discipline.
Do not deprive someone of his livelihood. This is a sinful tendency.
Don't accumulate if you do not need. The excess of wealth in your hands is for the society, and you are the trustee for the same.