JES 203Q First Step Of Jainism Level 2 Book

This document is "The First Step of Jainism, Level 2" from the JAINA Education Series 203, compiled by the JAINA Education Committee. It aims to introduce young learners to the fundamental principles and practices of Jainism.

The book is structured into several key sections:

1.0 Prayers: This section emphasizes the importance of memorizing and understanding key Jain prayers like the Navakär Mantra and Kshamäpanä Sutra.

2.0 Basics of Jainism: This foundational section covers essential Jain concepts: * Jainism – A Way of Life: Introduces Jainism as a practical guide for living. * Five Venerable Personalities (Pancha Parmesthis): Explains the roles of Arihantas, Siddhas, Ächäryas, Upädhyäys, and Sädhus/Sädhvis. It also delves into the types of karmas (Ghāti and Aghäti). * Tirthankars: Details the role of Tirthankars, their lineage, and their significant life events (Kalyänaks). * Samavasaran: Describes the divine assembly where Tirthankars deliver their sermons. * Jain Temple (Deräsar): Outlines the etiquette and practices associated with visiting a Jain temple, including the significance of idols and proper conduct. * Swastika (Säthiya): Explains the symbolism of the Swastika as a representation of Jain philosophy. * Soul (Ätmä): Discusses the nature and qualities of the soul and encourages learning a song about it. * Karma: Explains the concept of karma, its types, and how actions influence one's destiny. * Do's and Don'ts: Provides a practical guide to righteous conduct in daily life.

3.0 Life of Bhagawan Mahävir: This section offers a detailed biographical account of the 24th Tirthankar, Bhagawan Mahävir, covering: * Previous Lives: Tracing his path to becoming a Tirthankar. * Birth and Childhood: Describing his royal birth and early life. * Renunciation: Explaining his decision to leave worldly life. * Keval-jnän and Nirvana: Detailing his attainment of omniscience and liberation. * Preachings: Summarizing key teachings.

4.0 Jain Festivals: This section highlights significant Jain celebrations: * Mahavir Jayanti: The celebration of Bhagawan Mahavir's birth. * Paryushan/Dash Lakshana: The festival of repentance, forgiveness, and spiritual purification. * Diwali: A major festival of lights, significant for the Nirvana of Bhagawan Mahavir and Gautam-swämi's Keval-jnän.

5.0 Living Values: This section uses stories to illustrate essential moral and ethical values from a Jain perspective: * Anger/Forgiveness: Explores the destructive nature of anger and the importance of forgiveness, exemplified by "The Angry Boy" and "Chandkaushik." * Ego/Humility: Discusses the pitfalls of ego and the virtue of humility, illustrated by "The Hare and the Tortoise" and the story of "Bähubali." * Deceit/Honesty: Emphasizes the value of truthfulness and the consequences of deceit, shown through "The Honest Woodcutter" and "King Hans." * Greed/Contentment: Contrasts the misery of greed with the peace of contentment, using stories like "The Greedy Spider" and "Kapil Muni." * Compassion: Defines compassion and its practice, featuring "Meghakumar" and an activity to express compassion. * Friendship: Highlights the importance of good companionship, referencing a quote and a story about "Androcles and the Lion." * Perseverance: Encourages persistence in the face of challenges, inspired by "The Little Engine That Could." * Self-Reliance: Promotes independence and inner strength, exemplified by the butterfly story and a poem. It also touches on the "The Little Red Hen" story, emphasizing self-sufficiency.

6.0 Jainism in Action: This section connects Jain principles to practical aspects of modern life: * Conscious Consumer: Encourages ethical consumption, discussing products like eggs, pearls, silk, and Varakh from an Ahimsä (non-violence) perspective. * Environment: Explains the Jain principle of "Parasparopgraho Jivänam" (mutual help) in relation to environmental responsibility and the "Three Rs" of recycling. * Nutrition, Health and Spirituality: Links dietary choices to Ahimsä and overall well-being. * Yoga, Health and Spirituality: Briefly touches upon the connection between these practices.

7.0 Glossary: This section provides definitions for key Jain terms used throughout the book, aiding in comprehension.

Overall, "The First Step of Jainism, Level 2" serves as a comprehensive and engaging introduction to Jainism for young learners, combining spiritual teachings with practical life lessons and relatable stories.