Imagine a world where no one gets hurt, a world where no one is teased or bullied, a world where there is no fear or anger. Six centuries before the birth of Jesus, in the faraway land of India, there lived a great spiritual teacher name Mahavira (which means “very brave”), who imagined just such a world. He showed kindness to every living being and emphasized the practice of nonviolence, compassion, and forgiveness. The religion of Mahavira was called Jainism. Mahavira was born a prince, but because he had such deep love and respect for all living creatures, he renounced his wealth and power to become a wandering monk. The Jain teachings of Mahavira became very popular. He taught three important lessons: that one should have love and compassion for all living things; that one should not be too prideful of one’s own point of view because the truth has many sides; and that one should not be greedy and should avoid attachment to possessions. Today Jainism has more than 10 million adherents throughout the world. In following the example of Mahavira, Jains practice a vegetarian diet and are committed to sound ecological and environmental practices. Mahavira’s lessons on nonviolence and compassion still have a profound impact around the globe, and he is credited with influencing Mahatma Gandhi, who in turn inspired Martin Luther King, Jr. Beautifully brought to life by the delicate paintings of Demi and the powerful yet simple narrative of nationally recognized writer, Manoj Jain, the story of Mahavira’s life will provide a shining example of how one spiritual teacher’s noble ideals can echo throughout the ages.

Sociocultural evaluation of the works of Dhanapāla, 10th century exponent of Jainism.

The Study Companion is a valuable additional resource for introductory courses in world religions that use Christopher Partridge's Introduction to World Religions, Second Edition. Thoroughly checked and updated to work flawlessly with the revised second edition of this important text, the Study Companion provides biographical information, primary source readings, bibliographies, and many other pedagogical tools to enhance the student's experience.

This book traces the evolution of theories of warfare in India from the dawn of civilization, focusing on the debate between Dharmayuddha (Just War) and Kutayuddha (Unjust War) within Hindu philosophy. This debate centers around four questions: What is war? What justifies it? How should it be waged? And what are its potential repercussions?

Perspectives in Indian History deals with the history of India from 10,000 BC until 1857 AD. It delves into the story of the Indus-Saraswati civilization and the development of the Vedas. Such a book has been written for the first time, wherein India’s history has been analyzed from the early Hindu period. Hitherto most history books have emphasized the Muslim period or the British period. These have been written by Muslim historians or European colonists, which was often skewed by their fundamental bias that no civilization could equal their own. During this retelling, the author covers the interesting aspects of each age starting with the Ramayana. He then examines hotly debated issues like whether Alexander the Great won or lost in India. The author carries out an analysis of the causes of the conquest of India by the Muslims. The author analyses detailed battleplans of major battles, which affected India’s history, like Panipat, Plassey, and many others, and discusses the weaponry and tactics used in these wars.

The subject of discussion in this book is the philosophy of welfare Economics. The collective choice and the subjects of freedom through development are discussed in welfare economics. Inequality is to be reduced and basal equality has to be evolved to aid human welfare. The entitlement approach is the only solution for poverty and famine. All four subjects are woven in philosophical thought by Dr.Amartya Sen for the wellbeing of people. The book is a humble attempt at dealing with the subject of human welfare through religion. Killing is rampant in one or another form. The mantra of non-violence is the most valuable message to the world. The concept of non-killing is brought to light with the ancient agamic text of ACHARANG SUTRA. The view of Mahatma Gandhi on Ahimsa (non-violence) is compared with the Jain religious principle in modern context. It is important to be tolerant and to be able to understand others view points in the present situation. This is possible through Anakantvada of Jain religion. The non-possessiveness of materialistic items and wealth are important issues discussed in the book. The Karma (deeds) are an important factor in ones life. Karma is solely responsible for the uplift or downfall of the human soul. Jain religion works for the wellbeing of the human soul.

A guide to the religions of the world and to the concepts, movements, people, and events that have shaped them. It includes features such as: entries on religious movements and concepts, historical and legendary figures, divinities, religious sites and ceremonies; images that show sacred places, vestments, rituals, objects, and texts; and more.