Objectively tell me is Jainism a selfish religion
No. In Jainism, the aim is not selfishness but self-purification and the welfare of all living beings.
Key points:
- Ahimsa (non-violence) is central: harming others is seen as harming oneself in the long run.
- Anekantavada (many-sided truth) encourages humility, openness, and respect for others’ viewpoints, not self-centered thinking.
- Aparigraha (non-attachment/non-possessiveness) discourages greed and selfish accumulation; it promotes contentment and sharing.
- The path of liberation (moksha) is achieved by refining one’s own conduct and karma, which in Jain thought ultimately benefits all embodied beings because the cycle of karma and suffering diminishes when one acts righteously.
In short, Jainism teaches self-discipline and compassion as platform for universal welfare, not selfishness.