The following points highlight the seven main causes for the rise of new religious movements. The causes are: 1. Degradation of Vedic Religion 2. Dominance of Priestly Class 3. Sacrifices 4. Caste System 5. Difficult Language of Vedas 6. Belief in Mantras 7. Contradictory Theory Regarding Deliverance. Cause # 1. Degradation of Vedic Religion: The religion of the early Vedic [...]
In this article we will discuss about the origin of Jainism. The origin of Jainism is shrouded in obscurity. The followers of Jainism believe that their religion is as old as the Vedic religion. In fact, we have reference to Rishabha and Arishtanemi, two of the Jain Tirthankaras in the Vedic literature. The former is considered to be the founder [...]
The following points highlight the six important teachings of Mahavira. The teachings are: 1. Belief in Soul and Karma 2. Nirvana 3. Non-Belief in God 4. Rejection of Vedas 5. Ahimsa 6. Freedom to Women. Teaching # 1. Belief in Soul and Karma: According to Mahavira every element was a combination of material and spiritual factors. While the material factor [...]