Life of Mahavira

Introduction

Mahavira, traditionally dated to 599 – 527 BCE, was the twenty-fourth and last Tirthankara (spiritual teacher and “ford-maker”) of Jainism in the current cosmic age. Born as Vardhamana into a royal family, he renounced his worldly life at the age of thirty to pursue spiritual enlightenment. After twelve years of rigorous asceticism and meditation, he attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience), becoming a Jina (“conqueror”) and the principal figure whose teachings form the foundation of Jainism. Mahavira’s philosophy emphasized non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), non-stealing (Asteya), celibacy (Brahmacharya), and non-possession (Aparigraha) as essential principles for spiritual liberation. His life and teachings have had a profound and lasting impact on Indian philosophy and continue to inspire millions of followers worldwide.

Early Life and Family

Vardhamana was born in Kundagrama, near Vaishali, in what is now the state of Bihar, India. He belonged to the Lichchhavi clan, a prominent republican Mahajanapada of ancient India. His father, Siddhartha, was a wealthy and influential chieftain, and his mother, Trishala, was the sister of King Chetaka of Vaishali. Traditional Jain accounts describe several auspicious events preceding and during his birth, indicating his future spiritual greatness. Unlike some other contemporary spiritual leaders, Mahavira led a princely life until the age of thirty. While details of his early life are limited, Jain texts suggest he was a thoughtful and observant child, displaying qualities of wisdom and compassion from a young age. He was also known for his courage and strength, earning him the name “Vardhamana,” meaning “one who grows” or “prosperity.”

Renunciation

At the age of thirty, deeply moved by the suffering inherent in the cycle of birth and death and seeking a path to liberation, Vardhamana renounced his royal life and all worldly possessions. This decision was reportedly made with the consent of his elder brother, Nandivardhana, following the passing of their parents. His renunciation marked the beginning of an intense spiritual quest. He discarded his royal garments and embraced the life of a wandering ascetic, embarking on a journey of self-discipline and the pursuit of Kevala Jnana. This act of renunciation is a pivotal event in Jainism, symbolizing the detachment from material attachments and the commitment to spiritual liberation.

Ascetic Practices

For the next twelve years, Mahavira led an extremely austere life, practicing rigorous asceticism and enduring immense hardships. He wandered across the Gangetic plains, often without shelter, food, or clothing. He subjected himself to severe physical penances, including prolonged fasting, meditation in various challenging postures, and exposure to harsh weather conditions. Jain texts vividly describe the numerous trials and tribulations he faced, including attacks by animals and hostile people, all of which he endured with equanimity and unwavering resolve. His ascetic practices were aimed at conquering his senses, purifying his soul, and shedding karmic influences. He observed strict silence for extended periods and meticulously adhered to the principle of Ahimsa, taking extreme care not to harm any living being, even unintentionally.

Attainment of Kevala Jnana

After twelve years of intense spiritual practice, at the age of forty-two, while meditating under a Sal tree near the village of Jrimbhikagrama, Mahavira attained Kevala Jnana, or perfect and infinite knowledge. This enlightenment marked the culmination of his ascetic journey and signified his liberation from the cycle of birth and death. With the attainment of Kevala Jnana, Mahavira became a Jina, a spiritual conqueror who had overcome his inner enemies such as attachment, hatred, and ignorance. He was now revered as the twenty-fourth Tirthankara, a spiritual guide who had attained the highest spiritual realization and could show others the path to liberation.

Teachings of Mahavira

Following his enlightenment, Mahavira began to preach his teachings, which formed the core principles of Jainism. He emphasized the importance of the five vows for both monks and lay practitioners:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence): The most fundamental principle, advocating for the avoidance of harm to any living being in thought, word, and deed.
• Satya (Truthfulness): Speaking the truth in a way that is not harmful to others.
• Asteya (Non-stealing): Not taking anything that is not freely given.
• Brahmacharya (Celibacy): Abstinence from sexual activity for monks and nuns, and fidelity for lay practitioners.
• Aparigraha (Non-possession): Limiting one’s material possessions and attachments.

Mahavira also taught the concept of karma as a subtle material substance that affects the soul. Actions driven by attachments and aversions accumulate karma, binding the soul to the cycle of rebirth. The path to liberation involves shedding accumulated karma through right faith (Samyak Darshan), right knowledge (Samyak Jnana), and right conduct (Samyak Charitra), collectively known as the Three Jewels of Jainism. He also propounded the principles of Anekantavada (non-absolutism), which emphasizes the multiplicity of viewpoints and the relative nature of truth, and Syadvada (conditional predication), which suggests that all judgments are conditional and depend on the perspective from which they are viewed.

Organization of the Jain Community

Mahavira organized his followers into a fourfold order (Chaturvidha Sangha) consisting of monks (Sadhu), nuns (Sadhvi), laymen (Shravak), and laywomen (Shravika). He established a clear code of conduct for the monastic order, emphasizing strict asceticism, adherence to the five vows, and dedicated pursuit of spiritual liberation. The Sangha played a crucial role in preserving and propagating Mahavira’s teachings. He appointed eleven chief disciples (Ganadharas) who were instrumental in organizing and disseminating his philosophy.

Travels and Preaching

For thirty years after attaining Kevala Jnana, Mahavira traveled extensively across the Gangetic plains, preaching his teachings in the local Prakrit language, making them accessible to people from all walks of life. He engaged in dialogues and debates with scholars and ascetics from other traditions, effectively articulating his philosophy and attracting a large following. His teachings resonated with those who were seeking an alternative to the prevalent Vedic practices and the rigid social hierarchy.

Final Years and Death (Nirvana)

According to Jain tradition, Mahavira attained Nirvana (liberation from the cycle of birth and death) at the age of seventy-two in Pavapuri, located in the present-day Nalanda district of Bihar. His passing is a significant event in Jainism and is commemorated annually as Diwali by Jains. It is believed that his soul was finally freed from all karmic bonds, achieving eternal bliss and liberation.

Legacy and Influence

Mahavira’s life and teachings have left an indelible mark on Indian philosophy and spirituality. His emphasis on non-violence, truth, and self-discipline has profoundly influenced ethical thought in India. Jainism, founded upon his teachings, continues to be practiced today, with a strong emphasis on Ahimsa and asceticism. Mahavira’s teachings have also influenced other religious and philosophical traditions in India and have gained increasing relevance in the modern world for their emphasis on peace, environmentalism, and ethical living. His life story serves as an inspiration for those seeking spiritual liberation through self-effort and ethical conduct.