Mahavir Jayanti: Mahavir Jayanti on 10th April 2025 is one of the most significant festivals for Jains. It commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara in Jainism. This day not only marks the birth of a spiritual leader but also honors his profound teachings. In this article, you will know what are his teachings and why it is still relevant in today’s society.
Early Life of Bhagwan Mahavir
Lord Mahavir, originally named Vardhaman, was born in 599 BCE in the town of Kundalpur, present-day Bihar, India. He was born in royal family of King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala, and he belonged to the Kshatriya (warrior) caste. As a child, Mahavir was known for his serene demeanor, intelligence, and compassion. However, he was destined for a life of spiritual awakening. He renounced the luxuries of his royal life.
At the age of 30, Mahavir left his kingdom and family in pursuit of enlightenment. He spent the next 12 years in meditation and penance, seeking to understand the nature of life, suffering, and liberation. Through deep self-discipline and ascetic practices, Mahavir attained Keval Jnana (absolute knowledge) and became a Tirthankara, a soul who has conquered the cycle of birth and rebirth and is a spiritual guide for others.
Teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir
Bhagwan Mahavir’s teachings revolve around the core principles called “Panchsheel Siddhant” of ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (celibacy or self-control), and aparigraha (non-possessiveness).
- Ahimsa (Non-Violence): Mahavir’s most famous teaching was ahimsa. He believed that non-violence in thought, speech, and action is essential to attaining peace and liberation. According to Mahavir, all living beings, whether human, animal, or plant, have a soul, and causing harm to any living entity results in negative karma.
- Satya (Truth): Speaking the truth is an essential part of Mahavir’s teachings. He emphasized the importance of being truthful in all aspects of life, whether in speech or in thought. However, truth should not be spoken in a manner that harms others, and one must always consider the impact of their words.
- Asteya (Non-Stealing): Stealing, or taking something that is not given, is prohibited. Mahavir taught that everything in the universe is owned by the divine. Humans have no right to take what does not belong to them.
- Brahmacharya (Self-Control): This vow involves controlling one’s desires and maintaining chastity. For Mahavir, brahmacharya was not just about celibacy. It also means moderation in all desires, including physical and emotional ones.
- Aparigraha (Non-Possessiveness): Lord Mahavir advocated for living a simple life, free from attachments to material possessions. He believed that attachment to possessions leads to suffering and hinders spiritual growth.
These five principles lay the foundation for Jainism, which stresses the importance of self-discipline, compassion, and striving for a life of minimal harm and maximum harmony.
Life Lessons for Today
Self-Discipline and Determination: Mahavir’s 12 years of meditation and self-mortification exemplify the importance of self-discipline in achieving one’s goals. Despite the difficulties he faced, including severe physical and mental hardships, he remained committed to his spiritual journey, teaching us the power of determination in overcoming obstacles.
Forgiveness and Compassion: Mahavir always stressed the importance of forgiveness and compassion, even toward one’s enemies. His compassion extended not just to humans but to all living creatures. He believed that true spirituality comes from having a heart full of love and compassion, free from hatred or anger.
Detachment from Materialism: Mahavir’s renunciation of his royal status and his embrace of asceticism highlight the importance of detaching oneself from material wealth and pleasures. His life teaches true happiness is not found in material possessions but in inner peace.
Equality and Non-Discrimination: Lord Mahavir advocated for the equality of all living beings, regardless of caste, gender, or social status. He taught that spiritual liberation is accessible to all, irrespective of one’s birth or background. This progressive outlook made Jainism an inclusive spiritual path.
Peace and Non-Violence: Above all, Mahavir’s teachings emphasize peace and non-violence (ahimsa) as the path to spiritual liberation. His commitment to non-violence is a reminder that every action has consequences, and it is essential to practice mindfulness in every aspect of life.
Some Interesting Facts You May Not Know
- Name: His original name was Vardhaman, meaning “one who increases,” a name that symbolized his future greatness.
- Family: He was born into a royal family, but despite his comfortable and privileged life, he chose the path of renunciation.
- Keval Jnana: Mahavir attained Keval Jnana, which refers to absolute and perfect knowledge, after 12 years of intense meditation.
- No Discrimination: Mahavir preached the concept of “anekantavada,” which means understanding that truth has many perspectives, and that no one should discriminate based on these different views.
- Compassion to All: Mahavir’s compassion extended to all beings, and he even encouraged Jains to practice compassion toward the smallest creatures, advocating the practice of sweeping the ground before walking to avoid harming any insects.
Positive Takeaway
His teachings continue to resonate today, urging individuals to live a life of righteousness and peace. His teachings are universal, offering wisdom for those seeking inner peace and a harmonious existence with the world around them. Let us strive to embody his values in our daily lives, spreading love, kindness, and non-violence wherever we go.
