Coming Out: Queer Erasure and Censorship from the Middle Ages to Modernity

 Jainism

Vardhamana, was the 24th Tirthankara

In the intricate tapestry of religious and philosophical traditions, Jainism stands as a beacon of profound wisdom and unwavering principles. Through the journey of its early history, characterized by the enlightenment of Tirthankara Mahavira and the subsequent codification of his teachings, to its evolution through centuries of social, cultural, and political changes, Jainism has carved a unique niche in the spiritual landscape.

At the heart of Jainism lies the eternal flame of ahimsa, non-violence, illuminating the path to spiritual liberation. This foundational principle, ingrained in the teachings of Tirthankaras, resonates through the Panch Kalyanaka, the auspicious life events that encapsulate the transformative journey of these enlightened beings. From the conception to the ultimate liberation, each Kalyanaka weaves a narrative of renunciation, enlightenment, and the pursuit of truth.

Tīrthaṅkara-naam-karma, the distinctive names and characteristics of the Tirthankaras, serves as a symbolic lexicon embodying the virtues and qualities that aspirants on the Jain path strive to cultivate. Each name echoes with the resonance of spiritual prowess and ethical fortitude, creating a spiritual lineage that transcends time and space. This nomenclature is not mere identification but a conduit for devotees to connect with the divine qualities exemplified by these enlightened beings.

The cosmic drama of the present age unfolds with the presence of Tirthankaras, guiding humanity towards a higher plane of consciousness. Their teachings, encapsulated in the sacred scriptures and oral traditions, provide a roadmap for ethical living and spiritual awakening. In contemplating the Tirthankaras of the present cosmic age, devotees find solace and inspiration, seeing in them the living embodiment of the timeless wisdom that transcends the cyclical nature of existence.

The historical journey of Jainism, from its ancient roots to the contemporary era, has been one of resilience and adaptation. The Great Schism, a pivotal moment in Jain history, led to the emergence of Digambara and Svetambara sects, each contributing to the vibrant diversity of Jain thought and practice. Jainism weathered the storms of political changes, yet its core principles of non-violence, truth, and non-attachment remained steadfast, providing a moral compass for its followers.

The history of Jainism is rich and spans thousands of years. Here is a brief timeline highlighting key events, characteristics, and teachings of Jainism in its early history:

1. Prehistoric Origins:

   • Jainism's roots can be traced back to ancient times, predating recorded history.
   • Traditionally believed to have been propagated by twenty-four Tirthankaras, the first being Lord Adinath (Rishabhanatha), the founder of Jainism.
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     Lord Adinath (Rishabhanatha)

     
     

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3. 8th–7th Century BCE: Life of Lord Mahavira

   • Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, is considered the historical founder of Jainism.
   • Born as Vardhamana, Mahavira renounced worldly life at the age of 30 and embarked on a spiritual quest for enlightenment.
   • Achieved Kevala Jnana (omniscience) after 12 years of intense meditation.

Lord Mahavira

1. 6th Century BCE: Canonical Literature

   • Lord Mahavira's teachings were orally transmitted initially.
   • Councils were held to compile and codify his teachings into the Agamas, the canonical scriptures of Jainism.

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3. 6th–5th Century BCE: Spread of Jainism

   • Jainism gained followers and spread across India during and after Mahavira's lifetime.
   • Communities of Jain monks and nuns (Sramanas) were established.
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     The Great Schism

     
     

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5. 4th Century BCE: Chandragupta Maurya and Jainism

• Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya Empire, embraced Jainism and became an ascetic in his later years. His spiritual guide, Bhadrabahu, played a key role in the preservation of Jain teachings.
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Chandragiri is one of the two hills in Shravanabelagola in the Indian state of Karnataka

1. 3rd Century BCE: The Great Schism
2. • A division occurred within the Jain community between the Digambara and Svetambara sects. The schism was primarily over the practice of nudity among ascetics and the use of cloth.
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3. Digambara, believes that in order to achieve nirvana or liberation, one must renounce everything including clothes. Therefore Digambara monks are completely naked.

4. Svetambara, on the contrary, believes that practice of nudity is not essential to attain liberation. Therefore they wear white clothes. However, nuns in both the sects wear white clothes.

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6. 1st Century BCE: Jain Councils

• Jain councils were convened to address differences in interpretations of scriptures and practices. Efforts were made to preserve and standardize Jain teachings.
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9. Early Centuries CE: Flourishing Monastic Tradition

10. • Jain monastic communities continued to flourish. Prominent scholars like Kundakunda and Umasvati made significant contributions to Jain philosophy and literature.
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2. Medieval Period: Patronage and Decline

• Jainism received patronage from various rulers, including the Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, and the Gupta Empire. The rise of Islam led to a decline in Jainism's influence in certain regions.
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   Kailasa temple

   
   
   
   

5. Medieval to Modern Period: Renaissance and Revival

• Jainism experienced a revival in the medieval and modern periods. Prominent figures like Jinasena and Hemachandra contributed to Jain literature and scholarship.
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  Academic Accelerator

  
  
6. Hemachandra was a 12th century (c. 1088 AD – 1172/1173 AD) Indian Jain saint, scholar, poet, mathematician, philosopher, yogi, grammarian, legal theorist, historian, and lexicographer. , was a rhetorician, logician, and prosodist. He was regarded as a prodigy by his contemporaries and earned the title Karikala Sarvajna, ``the master of all the knowledge of his time'' and the father of the Gujarati language. 

Jinasena (c. 9th century CE) was a monk and scholar in the Digambara tradition of Jainism who belonged to the Panchastupanvaya. He claimed that Rishabhanatha first taught humanity how to extract sugarcane juice and that the fire by itself was not divine. jinasena had prohibited the use of meat, honey and other similar materials in Jain rituals due to their connection with violence.

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2. Contemporary Era: Jainism Today

3. Emphasis on non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-attachment (aparigraha), and other key Jain principles remains central to the faith.

1. Jainism is practiced globally, with significant communities in India, the United States, and other countries.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the early history of Jainism, highlighting its foundational events, teachings, and unique characteristics that have shaped the Jain tradition over the centuries.

As the sands of time shifted through the medieval and modern periods, Jainism faced challenges and opportunities. Patronage from rulers and scholars propelled the tradition forward, leading to a flourishing of Jain art, literature, and philosophy.

The renaissance and revival in the medieval and modern periods breathed new life into Jain scholarship, preserving and propagating the teachings for future generations.

In the contemporary era, Jainism has spread its wings globally, transcending geographical boundaries. Jain communities, both in their countries of origin and in the diaspora, grapple with the dynamics of a rapidly changing world.

The principles of Jainism, however, remain relevant and timely. The commitment to environmental sustainability, the promotion of compassion towards all living beings, and the pursuit of spiritual growth in the midst of material pursuits echo the concerns of the present age.

The Jain community today finds itself at the crossroads of tradition and modernity. Technological advancements, cultural shifts, and globalization pose both challenges and opportunities.

The preservation of Jain traditions, rituals, and values requires a delicate balance between adherence to ancient wisdom and adaptation to contemporary realities. Jainism's ability to navigate these complexities will determine its continued relevance in the unfolding narrative of human spirituality.

In conclusion, the journey of Jainism unfolds like the delicate petals of a lotus, revealing layers of profound insights and timeless truths.

From the celestial realms of Tīrthaṅkara-naam-karma to the earthly manifestations in the Panch Kalyanaka, and from the cosmic cycles of ages to the challenges of the modern world, Jainism's essence remains rooted in the pursuit of spiritual awakening and compassionate living.

As we contemplate the teachings of the Tirthankaras and the dynamic history of Jainism, we are reminded that its enduring legacy lies not just in the annals of the past but in the hearts and minds of those who carry the torch of this ancient wisdom into the future.