One of the most ancient religious traditions of India, Jainism is believed to be more than 5000 years old. Credited as being the religion that influenced Mahatma Ghandi, Jainism has demonstrated a remarkable tenacity and endurance, and continues to flourish as one of the most important religions on earth.
Jainism traces its roots to a succession of 24 Jinas ("those who overcome," or "conquerors") in ancient East India. The first Jina is traditionally believed to have been a giant who lived 8.4 million years ago. The most recent and last Jina was Vardhamana (a.k.a. Mahavira, "The Great Hero"). He was born in 550 BCE and is considered to be the founder of the modern-day Jain community.
Although there are millions of followers and thousands of monks of the Jain faith living in India, there are only two monks in America. Followers of Jainism in the States consist of social groups, often called "societies." Leaders of these societies are "presidents" or "directors."
Mahavira was a......
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