Jain Sector

Jainism is an Indian religion that prescribes pacifism and a path of non-violence towards all living beings. Its philosophy and practice emphasize the necessity of self-depravation and denial. Any soul that has conquered its own inner enemies and achieved the state of supreme being is called Jina Jainism is also referred to as Shraman Dharma or the religion of Nirgrantha (lit. those without ties) by ancient texts. Jainism is commonly referred to as Jain Dharma in Hindi and Samanam in Tamil.

Principles:

Non-violence (Ahimsa)

to cause no harm to living beings.

Truthfulness (Satya)

to always speak the truth in a harmless manner.

Non-stealing (Asteya)

to not take anything that is not willingly given.

Celibacy (Brahmacharya)

to control the senses including mind from indulgence.

Non-possession or Non-materialism (Aparigraha)

to detach from people, places, and material things

Every day most Jains bow and say their universal prayer, the Navakar Mantra which is also known variously as Panch Parmesthi Sutra, Panch Namaskar Sutra. Navakar Mantra is the fundamental prayer in Jainism and can be recited at any time of the day. Praying by reciting this mantra, the devotee bows in respect to liberated souls still in human form (Arihantas), fully liberated souls forever free from re-birth(Siddhas), spiritual leaders (Acharyas), teachers (Upadyayas) and all the monks and nuns(sarva sadhus [monks], sadhvis [nuns]). By saluting them saying "namo namaha", Jains receive inspiration from them to follow their path to achieve true bliss and total freedom from the karmas binding their souls. In this main prayer, Jains do not ask for any favours or material benefits.

The holiest symbol is a simple swastika. A Jain swastika is normally associated with the three dots on the top accompanied with a crest and a dot. Another important symbol incorporates a wheel on the palm of a hand, symbolizing Ahimsa. Other major Jain symbols include:

Swastika -Signifies peace and well-being.

Shrivatsa -A mark manifested on the centre of the Jina's chest, signifying a pure soul.

Nandyavartya -Large swastika with nine corners.

Vardhamanaka -A shallow earthen dish used for lamps, suggests an increase in wealth, fame and merit due to a Jina's grace.

Bhadrasana -Throne, considered auspicious because it is sanctified by the blessed Jina's feet.

Kalasha -Pot filled with pure water signifying wisdom and completeness.

Minayugala -A fish couple. It signifies Cupid's banners coming to worship the Jina after defeating the God of Love.

Darpana -The mirror reflects one's true self because of its clarity.