Showing posts with label jainism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label jainism. Show all posts

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Jain Emblem

The Jain Emblem is a congregation of various symbols, each having a deeper meaning. In 1975 this symbol was adopted by all sects of Jainism while commemorating the 2500th anniversary of the nirvana of Lord Mahaveera.

The inner part of the symbol contains Swastika and Jain Hand.
The meaning of the mantra at the bottom is "Live and Let Live". All creatures should help each other.

The outline of the symbol is defined as the universe. Jainism says that this universe was neither created by anyone, nor can it be destroyed by anyone. It changes its form, but it has always been and will always be here.

Jain Swastika (Jainist Symbol)

Swastika symbol has much more relevance and significance in the Jain religion as compared to the Hindu religion.
In Jainism, Swastika represents the Seventh Jina, more popularly known as the Tirthankara Suparsva.
It is one of the most prominent auspicious symbols of the present era.
In the cultural traditions of Svetambar Jains, Swastika is one of the main symbols of the ashta-mangalas.
A Jain swastika is normally associated with the three dots on the top accompanied with a crest and a dot.

Jain Hand (Jainist Symbol)

The symbol of hand in the lower portion shows fearlessness and symbolize the feeling of AHIMSA (non-violence ) towards all the creatures in this world.

The palm of the hand signifies the assurance, indicating that human beings suffering due to karmic bondage do not need to be disheartened. Another meaning is “stop and think before you act to assure that all possible violence is avoided.” This gives us a chance to scrutinize our activities to be sure that they will not hurt anyone by our words, thoughts, or actions. We are also not supposed to ask or encourage others to take part in any harmful activity.

The wheel in the hand symbolizes SAMASARA (reincarnation cycle). It shows that if we are not careful and ignore these warnings and carry on violent activities, then just as the wheel goes round and round, we will go round and round through the cycles of birth and death.

The word in the center of the wheel is "Ahimsa" (non-violence). Ahimsa means avoidance of Himsa (violence).