Abstract:

This remarkable five-part series sets Jainism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism firmly within the context of modern-day India while presenting the historical and cultural events that shaped them. Jainism: Ascetics and Warriors: Abutting the border of Pakistan, the state of Rajasthan is the home of the Jains, a relatively small but influential indigenous religious group founded by Vardhamana Mahavira, said to be the last Tirthankara. This program profiles Jainism, which espouses salvation by conquering material existence through strict ascetic discipline. The imperative detachment from worldly existence necessary for liberation is explained, as is ahimsa, the doctrine of non-injury to any living thing.