question_answer

What were the main teachings of Mahavira?                                                                                                  

Answer:

 

Mahavira taught the following:

(i) He taught a simple doctrine: men and women who wished to know the truth must leave their homes.

(ii) They must follow very strictly the rules of ahimsa, which means not hurting or killing living beings. "All beings," said Mahavira, "long to live. To all things, life is dear."

(iii) Followers of Mahavira, who were known as Jains had to lead very simple lives by begging for food.

(iv) They had to be absolutely honest and were specially asked not to steal.

(v) They had to observe celibacy and men had to give everything, including their clothes.