Mahavir Jayanti 2023 is an auspicious occasion celebrated by the Jain community to honor the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the last and most revered Tirthankara of Jainism. This year, Mahavir Jayanti date falls on April 4th, 2023, Tuesday. The day is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm across the world, particularly in India. In this article, we will delve into the history, significance, and celebration of Mahavir Jayanti.
History of Mahavir Jayanti
Lord Mahavir was born in 599 BCE in the kingdom of Vaishali, present-day Bihar, India. He was born into the royal family of King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala. However, at the age of 30, he renounced his luxurious life and became an ascetic, wandering in search of spiritual enlightenment. After 12 years of severe penance, he attained Kevala Jnana or absolute knowledge and became a Tirthankara, a spiritual teacher of Jainism.
Significance of Mahavir Jayanti
Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Mahavir, who is considered the last Tirthankara of Jainism. Tirthankara means the one who helps people to cross the ocean of life and death. Lord Mahavir’s teachings and principles have guided millions of Jains to lead a simple and ethical life. His teachings emphasize the importance of non-violence, truthfulness, celibacy, and non-possession. On this day, Jains offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Mahavir to live a righteous life.
Celebration of Mahavir Jayanti
The celebration of Mahavir Jayanti begins early in the morning with the recitation of prayers and hymns in Jain temples. The devotees decorate the temples with flowers and light lamps to welcome Lord Mahavir. A grand procession is carried out in which the idol of Lord Mahavir is taken out in a chariot, accompanied by devotees singing hymns and reciting prayers. The procession is followed by aarti and puja, after which prasad is distributed among the devotees.
On this day, Jains also observe a day-long fast and participate in charitable activities. They donate food, clothes, and money to the poor and needy, following the principle of “Jeevo Daya” or compassion for all living beings. Many Jains also engage in meditation and self-reflection to understand Lord Mahavir’s teachings better.
Quotes and Messages of Mahavir Jayanti
On this auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, here are some quotes and messages of Mahavir Jayanti 2023 that you can share with your loved ones:
“The greatest gift you can give someone is your kindness and compassion.” – Lord Mahavir
“In happiness and suffering, in joy and grief, we should regard all creatures as we regard our own self.” – Lord Mahavir
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” – Lord Mahavir
“Non-violence is the greatest religion.” – Lord Mahavir
“Ahimsa Parmo Dharma” – Non-violence is the highest religion.
Mahavir Jayanti 2023 Wishes
May Lord Mahavir’s teachings guide you towards a path of righteousness and peace. Happy Mahavir Jayanti!
On this auspicious day, may Lord Mahavir bless you with his divine wisdom and compassion. Happy Mahavir Jayanti!
Let us all follow Lord Mahavir’s teachings of non-violence, truthfulness, and compassion towards all living beings. Happy Mahavir Jayanti!
May the divine blessings of Lord Mahavir bring happiness, peace, and prosperity into your life. Happy Mahavir Jayanti!
May the teachings of Lord Mahavir inspire you to live a life of simplicity, kindness, and compassion. Happy Mahavir Jayanti!
Conclusion
Mahavir Jayanti is an important day for Jains to celebrate the birth anniversary of their revered spiritual leader, Lord Mahavir. It is a day to remember his teachings, which emphasize the importance of non-violence, truthfulness, celibacy, and non-possession. On this day, Jains engage in various activities such as fasting, donating to the poor and needy, and participating in meditation and self-reflection. Let us all seek blessings from Lord Mahavir and strive to follow his teachings