Importance of Diwali in Jainism
Importance of Diwali in Jainism
In Jainism, Diwali is the celebration of Bhagwan Mahavir's contribution to humankind; it commemorates Mahavir's attainment of Moksha or Salvation in Bihar's Pavapuri.
Mahavir Swami contributed to the growth of scientific temper and encouraged people to overcome superstition and blind faith. His teachings to advocate gender equity, and also equity in all spheres including economic, political, and social.
In Jainism, Diwali was first referred as Dipalika or Splendor of Lamps, in the Harivamsha purana written by Acharya Jinasen. In his words The Tirthankars illuminated Pavanagari by lamps to mark the occasion. Since then, on Diwali, the day when Bhagwan Mahavir attained Niravana, is celebrated with lamps. Mahavira was also known as Jinendra.
As tribute to the penance and sacrifice of Mahavir and his valuable contributions to our understanding of life and beyond. The festival usually happens in the month of Kartik, in October or November. Devotes sing and chant hymns and mantras in the praise of the Tirthankar.
All celebrations is marked by austerity, simplicity, equity, calmness, charity, and environment-consciousness. Firecrackers are avoided are avoided by Jain people as they avoid violence against living beings present in air. Jain temples are decorated with lights and diyas. Devotees from around the world try to visit Pavapuri on this special day, offering their respects and prayers.
Jain Scriptures also mention that one of the ardent disciples of Mahavira, Gautam Swami attained enlightenment on this day. As Diwali is celebration of Mahavir's Nirvana as well as a day that marks new beginnings a kind of New Year. Hence members of Jain community wish each other a Happy New Year by saying Nava Saal Mubarak.
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Very informative,never knew about Jain new year !
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