Where can I start learning about jainism? can you recommend books? I am a Jain. I want to learn more
1
Answer
A beautiful place to start is with the basics of Jain Dharma: Navkar Mantra, Tirthankars, Ahimsa, Karma theory, Ratnatraya, vows, daily conduct, and Jain festivals.
Since you are Jain and want to learn more, you can learn in three ways:
- Understand the philosophy — soul, karma, moksha, ahimsa, anekantvad.
- Learn daily practice — samayik, pratikraman, puja, fasting, right conduct.
- Study Jain history and stories — Tirthankars, great acharyas, shravaks, and sadhus/sadhvis.
Recommended Books
- Jainism: The World of Conquerors by Natubhai Shah
A very good broad introduction to Jain history, philosophy, practices, and culture. - The Jaina Path of Purification by Padmanabh S. Jaini
A respected book for understanding Jain philosophy and spiritual discipline more deeply. - That Which Is by Nathmal Tatia
An English translation and explanation of Tattvartha Sutra, one of the most important Jain philosophical texts. - Tattvartha Sutra
A foundational Jain text accepted by both Digambar and Shvetambar traditions. It explains soul, karma, liberation, conduct, and reality. - Samansuttam
A collection of important Jain teachings compiled from various Jain scriptures. Good for reflective study. - Jain Dharma no Sar or similar beginner books from your local Jain sangh
If you read Gujarati or Hindi, your local temple or sangh may have simple beginner books on Jain principles and daily practices.
Good Starting Topics
You may begin with these in order:
- Navkar Mantra — its meaning and spiritual importance.
- Who is a Jina? — meaning of Tirthankar and Arihant.
- The soul — what is jiva in Jain Dharma?
- Karma theory — how karma binds the soul.
- Ratnatraya — Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct.
- Ahimsa — not only non-violence in action, but also in speech and thought.
- Anekantvad — understanding truth from many viewpoints.
- Pratikraman and Samayik — daily spiritual purification.
- Five vows — ahimsa, satya, achaurya, brahmacharya, aparigraha.
- Tirthankar lives — especially Bhagwan Rishabhdev, Bhagwan Parshvanath, and Bhagwan Mahavir.
Practical Learning Path
- Daily: Recite Navkar Mantra with meaning.
- Weekly: Read one small topic on Jain philosophy or conduct.
- Monthly: Attend a pravachan, swadhyay, or class at your Jain sangh.
- Gradually: Learn Samayik and Pratikraman properly from a knowledgeable teacher.
Spiritual Understanding
In Jain Dharma, learning is not only for information. It is for inner purification. True study should increase:
- Compassion
- Self-control
- Humility
- Awareness of karma
- Desire for liberation
Takeaway
Start simple: learn the meaning of Navkar Mantra, then study Ahimsa, Karma, Ratnatraya, and Tattvartha Sutra. Along with reading, stay connected with your Jain sangh and learn practices like Samayik and Pratikraman from someone knowledgeable.