Q What does "Ahimsa" mean in Jainism?
A Ahimsa is the defining, foundational principle of Jainism, captured in the sacred motto Parasparopagraho Jivananam ("all life is bound together by mutual support"). Jains expand non-violence far beyond human relationships to encompass all living matter, including animals, insects, plants, and micro-organisms. Because they believe everything possesses a soul, Jains practice radical mindfulness such as sweeping the ground before walking or straining water to avoid accidentally injuring microscopic life.
A Ahimsa is the defining, foundational principle of Jainism, captured in the sacred motto Parasparopagraho Jivananam ("all life is bound together by mutual support"). Jains expand non-violence far beyond human relationships to encompass all living matter, including animals, insects, plants, and micro-organisms. Because they believe everything possesses a soul, Jains practice radical mindfulness such as sweeping the ground before walking or straining water to avoid accidentally injuring microscopic life.
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What is Jainism?Also known as the Jain Dharma, this religion began with the succession of 24 conquerors (Jinas) in ancient India. The religion was founded by the last Jina Vardhamana, who in 420 BC fasted to death (an act known as salekhana). The religion has similar ties with Hinduism and Buddhism, but does not have a heaven and hell. Instead, the religion sees the universe as a series of heavens and hells, where karma decides who lives on each level.
