jainism

Everyday

1. (religion) An ancient religion from India that teaches non-violence to all living things, honesty, and freeing the soul by living simply. tree →
2. Jains follow the teachings of Mahavira and earlier great teachers called Tirthankaras. tree →

In the lessons

In religious education lessons Jainism is studied with Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism. Jains believe in ahimsa (never harming any living being), so many are strict vegetarians and some monks sweep the path so as not to step on insects. The festival of Diwali is also important to Jains. Phrases: follower of Jainism, Jain temple.

Examples

• Jainism began in India over 2,500 years ago. tree →
• Jainism teaches respect for every living thing. tree →
• Many people who follow Jainism do not eat meat, fish or eggs. tree →
• Jains believe that the soul can be freed from the cycle of rebirth. tree →
• There is a beautiful Jain temple in Leicester. tree →
• In RE we compared Jainism and Buddhism. tree →
• Ahimsa, or non-violence, is the heart of Jainism. tree →

Note

Written with a capital J: Jainism. A follower is a Jain; the adjective is also Jain. Pronounced JINE-iz-um (rhymes with «mine»). Uncountable. Say «Jains believe…», as the beliefs belong to the faith.