Jainism, like Hinduism and Buddhism, is one of India's ancient, indigenous religions. The word "Jain" derives from the Sanskrit word ji meaning to conquer. The founder of Jainism was Vardhamana (c. 599–527 BCE), later known...

a religious tradition made important by Vardhamāna, a contemporary of the Buddha, who adopted the title Jina (victor) on attaining spiritual accomplishment. He is regarded as the twenty-fourth and last (‘ford-maker’, i.e. one who...

A member of one of the many religions of India. So called after the first of its Tirthankaras, ‘ford-makers’, called Mahāvīra, the Jaina or Jina, Conqueror, a title also applied to the Buddha. The twenty-fourth in the line,...

Jainism FOUNDED: c. 550 B.C.E. RELIGI ON AS A PERCENTAGE OF WORLD POPULATION: 0.1 percent Overview Jain doctrine states that the religion has been periodically renewed by enlightened people, or Jinas, since a beginningless time, but scholars date...

...

Jainism is a religion similar to Buddhism in which the main goal is making the soul free from earthly hindrances. Karma, reincarnation and prayer are key tenets of the religion.

This analysis of Jainism explores its historical background, teachings, cultural impact and ritual practices. Also known as Jain Dharma, one of its early leaders was Vardhamana Jnatrputra, commonly known as Mahavira.