Context:
Santhara, a Jain ritual, has been recently in the news
Santhara:
- Also known as Sallekhana
- A Jain religious practice where an individual voluntarily fasts unto death to attain spiritual liberation.
- It is believed to cleanse the soul of karma and help achieve moksha (liberation).
- Jain scriptures state that Santhara should only be undertaken in cases of old age, incurable illness, or extreme hardship.
- Historical References – The practice is mentioned in Ratnakaranda Shravakachara, a Jain text from the 4th century AD.
- Legal Status – The Rajasthan High Court ruled Santhara as illegal in 2015, equating it to suicide. However, the Supreme Court lifted the ban in 2016, recognizing it as a religious practice.
Other Jain Religious Practices:
- Samayika (Meditation & Equanimity)
- A practice of self-discipline and meditation, focusing on spiritual purity.
- Helps individuals detach from worldly distractions.
- Paryushana (Annual Jain Festival)
- A period of fasting, self-reflection, and forgiveness.
- Jains seek forgiveness from others and engage in spiritual practices.
- Pratikramana (Repentance Ritual)
- A daily or annual ritual where Jains reflect on their actions and seek forgiveness.
- Helps cleanse the soul of negative karma.
- Diksha (Renunciation)
- The initiation ceremony for Jain monks and nuns.
- Involves giving up all worldly attachments and embracing ascetic life.
Source: IE
Previous Year Question
With reference to the religious practices in India, the “Sthanakvasi” sect belongs to
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2018 Prelims]
(a) Buddhism
(b) Jainism
(c) Vaishnavism
(d) Shaivism
Answer: (b)