Lord Mahavir, also known as Vardhamana, is the 24th and the last Tirthankara who revived Jainism. He is usually depicted in a sitting or meditative posture, with a lion’s symbol beneath him. According to Jain texts, the reason behind his name was prosperity at the time of his birth. His birth is celebrated as Mahavir Jayanti. It falls on the 13th day in the Hindu month of Chaitra, according to the Hindu calendar. The day is celebrated with great fervour in the Jain community. It is observed not only in India but also across the world where the Jain community is present. It is considered auspicious to donate food and clothes to needy on this. In 2019, Mahavir Jayanti falls on April 17.
This Mahavir Jayanti, let’s remember Lord Mahavir with his quotes and teachings.
- By sincerity, a man gains physical, mental and linguistic straightforwardness, and harmonious tendency; that is, congruence of speech and action.
- Live and allow others to live; hurt no one; life is dear to all living beings.
- Do not deprive someone of his livelihood. This is a sinful tendency.
- The soul is the central point of spiritual discipline.
- Anger begets more anger, and forgiveness and love lead to more forgiveness and love.
- Attachment and aversion are the root cause of karma, and karma originates from infatuation. Karma is the root cause of birth and death, and these are said to be the source of misery. None can escape the effect of their own past karma.
- If you want to cultivate a habit, do it without any reservation, until it is firmly established. Until it is so confirmed, until it becomes a part of your character, let there be no exception, no relaxation of effort.