The JainsThe Indian religion of Jainism, whose central tenet involves non-violence to all creatures, is one of the world's oldest and least-understood faiths. Dundas looks at Jainism in its social and doctrinal context, explaining its history, sects, scriptures and ritual, and describing how the Jains have, over 2500 years, defined themselves as a unique religious community. This revised and expanded edition takes account of new research into Jainism. |
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åcårya accepted according action activity ancient appear ascetic associated attainment attempt authority become beginning behaviour body Buddhist called canon century Chapter claim continued death describes developed Digambara doctrine early effect enlightenment event evidence example existence fact first flvetåmbara followers fordmaker Gaccha gain given giving Hindu holy human important India initiation interpretation involved j⁄va Jain Jainism karma king knowledge known later literature living Mahåv⁄ra means medieval monastic monks nature nuns origin particular path performed period person physical possible practice preaching present recent reference regarded relates religion religious remained represent respect result ritual S¨ri sacred scriptures sect sectarian seems seen sense significant social soul sources spiritual story suggests taken teacher teachings temple texts tion tradition true Universal variety various Vows worship writers