Read about the occasion of Mahavira Jayanti which celebrates the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira.Lord Mahavir was born in 599 BC at Kundagram in Bihar. He was born several centuries ago in a remote part of Bihar, India. Even though his life history dates back several years ago, his teachings are relevant even today. What he accomplished was absolutely wonderful and that too at such a young age.
There are various sects in Jainism such as Digambars, Shwetambars, Sthanak Vaasis and Tera Panthis. All of them come together on this day without having any differences in their midst and celebrate this auspicious occasion together.
History of Jainism
Jainism is a great religion emphasizing the importance of detachment to worldly objects. Jains believe in the importance of karma and carrying out the duties of worldly life before attaining union with the Supreme. They too believe that freedom from birth and death is the highest goal of life. As per Jain tradition, 24 Tirthankaras have appeared on Earth and Mahavir was the last of them all.
Non-violence or Ahimsa is a fundamental tenet of Jainism. It means that one must abandon all violent activity. Causing any harm to other living beings will ultimately lead to bad karma for the doer of the action.
Life of Lord Mahavir
Lord Mahavir was said to be the epitome of patience, tolerance, and humanity. He experienced many obstacles in life yet he remained steadfast. Finally, he is said to have attained
Moksha in 6th Century B.C.
Moksha is the highest goal in Eastern religions like Hinduism and
Jainism. Only great souls can reach that stage. However, in order to attain spiritual awakening, he decided to give up worldly luxuries and comforts and concentrate on the final goal only. Even though he was born in a princely family to parents of royal lineage, he decided to give up riches to follow God and achieve nirvana. It is said that he lived during the time of the
Buddha in 5th century BC.
Lord Mahavir Appearance
In the olden days, people were much taller than those born in the present generations and they lived longer as well. Lord Mahavir was about 10.5 feet tall. In fact, he was the shortest of the 24 Tirthankaras. The 22nd Tirthankara was said to have been almost 60 feet tall and lived for 1000 years.
He is usually depicted in a sitting meditative posture with a symbol of a lion beneath him. His statues depict him sitting in Padmasana posture with right hand on top of left one. The statue will have the SriVatsa mark on bare chest.
Celebrations
On the day of
Mahavir Jayanti, people bathe the statue of Lord Mahavir in milk known as
Abhishek. The idol is carried out in a chariot for procession.
Religious hymns are recited on the way. Jains participate in religious activities and charitable events such as donating food to the poor, etc. They offer
Puja, pray and even fast.
Monks and nuns give religious discourses at the Jain temples. Donations are collected for charitable activities. He had travelled far and wide to preach his philosophy which is today spread in the form of lectures. On this day, people offer their respect to Lord Mahavir. Jains like to decorate their temples with flowers and flags.
Lord Mahavir’s childhood name was Vardhamana which means the one who grows. It was representative of the kingdom’s prosperity at the time of his birth. His mother and father were said to be ardent followers of the 23rd Tirthankara. Although he was an ascetic, some Jain traditions believe that he was married. His parents wanted him to marry but he refused. He was more interested in spiritual pursuits and intended to give-up worldly life. Even today, Pavapuri – the place where he achieved Nirvana is a holy pilgrim site for Jains.
What is the significance of Mahavir Jayanti? When will be Mahavir Jayanti celebrated in the year 2019? How is Mahavir Jayanti celebrated? Discuss here.
