Jain Tirthankara "Revered Teacher", Western India # 52 Measures approx. 4.5"T x 3"W x 1.75"D Material: Hardwood with a fine patina Origin is Jain Groups in India Circa 1940-50's Jain MythologyThe Jain People follow Jainism, an Ancient Indian Religion founded by Vardhamana Mahavira in the 6th Century BCE. Jainism is known for its emphasis on Nonviolence, Asceticism, and the Spiritual Quest for Self-Realization. BeliefsJainism is based on the principle of Ahimsa, or Nonviolence, which extends to all Living Beings. It teaches that all life forms have a Soul, and each Soul is potentially Divine. The ultimate goal of Jainism is to achieve Liberation (Moksha) from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, by eliminating Karma accumulated over multiple lifetimes. This is achieved through the observance of three essential principles: Right Faith (Samyak Darshana), Right Knowledge (Samyak Jnana), and Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra). The path to Liberation involves following the Five Vows: nonviolence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-attachment. MythologyJain mythology is rooted in the concept of the 24 Tirthankaras, or Spiritual Teachers who have achieved Moksha and guide others on the Path to Liberation. The Tirthankaras are not considered Gods but rather Enlightened Beings who embody the Jain ideals. The first Tirthankara was Rishabhanatha, and the most recent and significant was Mahavira, who is regarded as the founder of Jainism. Deities Though the Tirthankaras hold a central role in Jainism, there are several deities, heroes, and mythological creatures that play a vital role in Jain mythology. They are often venerated in rituals and ceremonies.
