Jainism

Comparison Essay # 100944

Religion and Theology > Christianity
Religion and Theology > Eastern

Jainism

This paper discuses the religion of Jainism and compares it to Christianity.

2,000 words () | 4 sources | APA | 2007 United States

Paper Summary:

The author of this paper describes how the Jains practice their religion, as observed by her visit to the Jain center of Northern California. The author points out that Jainism, also known as Jain Dharma, which is one of the most ancient religions in the world still existing today, was traditionally developed in ancient India in the 6th century B.C. The paper stresses that the basic structure of Jainism and beliefs in God differs from the beliefs of Christianity. The author relates that Jainism is a transtheistic religion; whereas, Christianity is a monotheism religion. The paper underscores that Jains do not believe in a God as a creator but rather in an eternal world ruled by natural laws. The author relates that both Christians and Jains have a strong belief in participating in good behavior in hopes of reaching different forms of liberation.

From the Paper:

"In an interview with Deepak Shah, one of the Jain followers, I was able to understand more about the unique ways the Jain practice their religion. Deepak, who tries to visit the temple once a week, shared some of his personal ritual and practices. In the Jain religion, there are prayers that take place every morning. In daily prayers, Deepak does not pray to a particular Tirhankar by name but bows down to the five noble souls. The prayer known as Navakara Mantra is to show their respects to all noble souls known as Arihantas, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas and all the Sadhus and Sadhvis."

Sample of Sources Used:

Fisher, M. P. (2005). Living religions. (6th ed.). New Jersey: Prentice Hall
National & World Religion Statistics. (1999, August). Jain Temples in U.S. Retrieved on December 18, 2007, from http://www.adherents.com/largecom/templjain_statesUS.html
Religion Facts. (2004). Just the facts on the world's religions. Retrieved on December 14, 2007, from http://www.religionfacts.com/hinduism/index.htm
Slick M. (2002). Christian Apologetic & Research Ministry. Retrieved on December 21, 2007, from http://www.carm.org