Jainism

noun

Jain·​ism ˈjī-ˌni-zəm 

ˈjā-

: a religion of India originating in the sixth century b.c. and teaching liberation of the soul by right knowledge, right faith, and right conduct

Examples of Jainism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The appearance of dharmachakras in Jainism, according to some scholars, was possibly adopted as a symbol from early Buddhism, but the historical interrelation between the two traditions with regard to this symbol is not crystal clear. — Charles Preston, Encyclopedia Britannica, 5 June 2026

The collection ranges from manuscripts from the 15th century to the 19th century with the texts exploring different topics related to Jainism, including religion, culture, medicine, and literature. — Maximilíano Durón, ARTnews.com, 15 May 2026

In Jainism, Diwali commemorates Lord Mahavira reaching nirvana, or spiritual enlightenment, according to Brandeis University. — Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 20 Oct. 2025

Adherents of Sikhism, Buddhism and Jainism also celebrate variations on Diwali. — Grant Stringer, Mercury News, 8 Oct. 2025

According to the Association for Asian Studies, the swastika could be found in ancient buildings around Asia as a symbol of peace and good luck in cultures that practice Buddhism, including Jainism and Hinduism. — Kimberlee Speakman, People.com, 26 July 2025

However, India missed out on the fun due to a market holiday for Mahavir Jayanti, a festive in Jainism celebrating the birth of Lord Mahavira. — Brendan Ahern, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025

From the commemoration of King Rama’s return to his kingdom after defeating Ravana to the reverence of Lakshmi, the goddess of abundance and prosperity, various sects of Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism commune in ceremony. — Prinita Thevarajah, Architectural Digest, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1858, in the meaning defined above