Wikijunior:World Religions/Jainism

How many people follow Jainism?
There are more than 4 million Jains, mostly in India.

Where is Jainism practiced?
Mostly in India but also in countries with Indian immigrants like Canada, the United Kingdom, Kenya, the US and Australia.

What are the main beliefs of Jainism?
One of their main beliefs is not being violent. This is called ahimsa. Another is that the truth cannot be fully expressed in words, anekantavada. They also believe in not having an attachment to objects. This is called asceticism.

What texts does Jainism hold sacred?
Jains consider the Agam literature, also called the Agam Sutras, holy.

What are some main holidays and practices of Jainism?
Diwali, Paryushana, Daslakshana and Mahavir Janma Kalyanak are some of the main festivals Jains celebrate.

What is the history of Jainism?
Jainism is an extremely old religion having existed since at least the 5th century BCE. Since 800 CE the religion has declined because of conversion to Hinduism, Islam and Sikhism.