While Diwali is widely known as the Festival of Lights celebrated by Hindus to mark the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya, it holds a different but equally significant meaning for Jains. For Jains, Diwali is not about the victory of light over darkness or good over evil in the same sense as in Hinduism. Instead, it is a deeply spiritual celebration marking a pivotal event in Jain history—the attainment of Nirvana by Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara.
Jain Diwali, also known as Mahavira Nirvana Diwas, is a commemoration of Lord Mahavira’s liberation from the cycle of life and death (moksha) and his final release from worldly attachments. Here’s a closer look at why Jains celebrate Diwali and the significance of the festival in Jainism.
The Significance of Diwali in Jainism
1. Mahavira’s Nirvana (Liberation)
Diwali holds special significance for Jains because it marks the day when Lord Mahavira, the spiritual leader and 24th Tirthankara, attained Nirvana at Pavapuri in 527 BCE. Lord Mahavira spent his life preaching the principles of non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), and renunciation (aparigraha). According to Jain scriptures, Mahavira attained Nirvana on the New Moon day of Kartika (Diwali), and his soul was liberated from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara).
For Jains, this event symbolizes the ultimate goal of human existence—liberation from worldly attachments and the attainment of eternal bliss. Diwali is a time to reflect on Mahavira’s teachings, practice self-purification, and strive toward spiritual liberation.
2. Lighting of Lamps in Lord Mahavira’s Honor
The tradition of lighting lamps during Diwali also has a specific meaning in Jainism. When Mahavira attained Nirvana, his disciples and followers felt the loss of their spiritual leader. To honor his teachings and the light of wisdom he left behind, Jains began the practice of lighting lamps (diyas) to signify the eternal light of knowledge and the removal of ignorance.
The lamps symbolize Mahavira’s teachings and the spiritual light that guides Jains on their path toward enlightenment. The act of lighting lamps during Diwali is not just a ritual but a reminder to follow the path of righteousness, self-discipline, and compassion.
3. The Role of Lord Indrabhuti Gautama
Another significant aspect of Jain Diwali is the celebration of the spiritual awakening of Indrabhuti Gautama, the chief disciple of Lord Mahavira. It is said that Gautama attained Kevala Jnana (absolute knowledge or omniscience) the day after Mahavira’s Nirvana. For Jains, this event is a reminder that through devotion and deep understanding of Mahavira’s teachings, one can attain spiritual enlightenment.
4. Observing Fasting and Meditation
While Diwali is a time for festivity, for Jains, it is also a time for self-reflection, fasting, and spiritual practices. Many Jains observe Paryushana, a period of intense fasting and meditation leading up to Diwali. On Diwali itself, Jains engage in religious practices like prayers, reciting scriptures, and meditation, focusing on the principles of non-violence and truth.
By practicing these forms of penance, Jains strive to free themselves from the karmic bondages that tie them to the material world. Diwali becomes a time for purifying the soul, reflecting on one’s actions, and committing to a more disciplined, ethical, and compassionate way of life.
5. End of the Jain Calendar Year
Diwali also marks the end of the Jain calendar year and the beginning of the new year. It is a time to review the past year’s actions and seek forgiveness for any wrongdoings through the practice of Pratikraman (repentance and reflection). This practice helps cleanse the soul of any negative karma and prepares individuals for a new beginning with a renewed focus on spiritual progress.
How Jains Celebrate Diwali
Jain Diwali celebrations are spiritual and solemn, focused on prayers, meditation, and community gatherings. Here are some of the key elements of Jain Diwali traditions:
- Temple Visits: Jains visit temples to offer prayers and engage in puja (worship). Special sermons and discourses on Lord Mahavira’s teachings are held, encouraging followers to reflect on their spiritual journey.
- Lighting Lamps: Just like Hindus, Jains light diyas, but with the intention of spreading the light of knowledge. These lamps are placed in homes and temples to symbolize the inner light of Mahavira’s wisdom and guidance.
- Reading Sacred Texts: Jains read sacred scriptures like the Uttaradhyayan Sutra, which contains the final teachings of Lord Mahavira. This practice is a way of reconnecting with the core principles of Jainism—non-violence, truth, and renunciation.
- Fasting and Charity: Many Jains observe fasting or eat simple meals during Diwali to detach themselves from material desires. Charity is also encouraged, and donations are made to temples or those in need.
- Pratikraman (Forgiveness Ritual): On Diwali night, Jains perform Pratikraman, where they reflect on their actions, seek forgiveness for any harm caused, and vow to lead a more ethical life in the coming year.