Jain Dharma
Reflections on the Inspirational
Teachings and Practices of Mahavira Swami
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Introduction
Self-dependence and self-responsibility on the spiritual journey coupled with the most profound reverence for the welfare of all living entities are central to the religion of Jains. It is this very tradition originating in India and followed by adherents of Jainism the world over that is also greatly admired globally by many non-Jains alike, not least because of its promotion of, and commitment to, non-violence and the advocacy of peace, equanimity and harmony.
The teachings and practices of this ancient tradition propagated by Mahavira Swami, who was born in the sixth century BCE in the same region and time as the Buddha, are as pertinent today as they were over 2,500 years ago. And it is these very teachings and practices, particularly in the context of spiritual self-sufficiency and observance of non-violence which this book explores and presents. Inspired by the unique voice of Mahavira Swami, this book, in fact, is both instructive and of practical relevance for all Jains, particularly in terms of understanding and applying the lessons he taught; but, as a study of the doctrines Mahavira Swami espoused and championed, it is equally of special value for any reader wishing to comprehend the major defining features of Jainism.
Jain Dharma is a long awaited title, one which followers of the religion have often sought in vain but who can now fully enjoy and use in their day-to-day spiritual lives. All too frequently other volumes dedicated to the study of Jainism available in libraries and book shops are inaccessible to religious practitioners themselves, as these texts are mostly authored by scholars and designed essentially for academic use. Alternatively, other books on the religion written from the perspective of Jainism are not always found to be sufficiently comprehensive in a way that practitioners can easily digest. It is for these reasons – a necessary attempt to bridge this gap – that this present work has been constructed.
Throughout the book a sincere attempt is made at all times faithfully to disclose the essence of what Mahavira Swami taught and promulgated, with careful attention given to how he boldly and courageously paved the way for ending the suffering of all sentient beings, ensuring the emancipation of all souls. Moving away from the mainstream traditions dominant during his day in order to create a path that held no bar to any individual and indeed embraced everyone, Mahavira Swami understandably attracted many enthusiastic followers – both ascetic and lay – followers who quickly formed themselves into a distinct and vibrant community. It is also because the transformational message he preached, one which Mahavira Swami himself directly embodied, that the tradition he forged continues to have enormous appeal today, and it is this very message as well as its application that Jain Dharma celebrates. As such, the book is at once an important new resource on Jainism and essential reading for all its practitioners.

– Saman Shrutpragya
– Dr. Graham Dwayer