Jainism is one of the ancient religions of India and an integral part of Indian culture. Lord Mahavira was the twenty-fourth Tirthankara of this religion. His sermons have been extensively documented in the Jain Agamas. His powerful teachings shed light on the philosophy of Jainism as well as on the moral and spiritual values for everyday life. His teachings about compassion and non-violence can be a major driving force in the present times. In today’s world, which is ruled by the hunger for power and possessiveness, Mahavira’s teachings need to be spread far and wide so that human beings may be inspired with humanity and humane values once again.
In this handy book ‘Motivating Thoughts of Mahavira’, Dulichand Jain presents a selection of some of the finest aphorisms from the ancient Jaina texts. For easy comprehension, he has divided the sutras into topics, such as knowledge and conduct, conquest of passions, doctrine of karma, reflection and intuition, learning, meditation and righteousness. He has given a simple title for every single aphorism along with the reference number. Its simple and lucid presentation will make it useful for the laypersons, students as well as scholars.

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Contents

Part-1—Life of Tīrthańkara Mahāvīra—9

Life of Tīrthańkara Mahāvīra—11

Part-2—A Selection of Inspiring Aphorisms from the Jaina Scriptures—25

1. Prayer—27

2. Self—29

3. Precepts on Knowledge and Conduct—36

4. Precepts on Fundamentals—47

5. Precepts on Conquest of Passions—49

6. Precepts on Conquest of Mind—59

7. Precepts on Karma—61

8. Precepts on Reflections—65

9. Precepts on Righteousness (Dharma)—80

10. Precepts on Meditation—106

11. Precepts on Learning—111

12. Other Precepts—124

Abbreviations of the Selected Works—133