Final answer:
Jainism, or Jain Dharma, originated around the ninth century BCE, emphasizing ascetic practices, meditation, and non-violence (ahimsa). It fosters universal love and teaches the importance of the consequences of one's actions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Jains believe that their religion's origins extend to the distant past. A Jain is a follower of Jinas (the saints), who are humans who have rediscovered the dharma and have become fully liberated. These Jinas can then teach this spiritual path to other people. A major characteristic of Jainism is the emphasis on the consequences of physical and mental behavior.
Jainism, also known as Jain Dharma, is a spiritual, religious, and philosophical tradition that originated in India. Historical evidence suggests that Jainism dates back to around the ninth century BCE. It developed in the eastern part of the Ganges plains, where the emphasis was on ascetic practices, meditation, and individual spiritual development. Jainism preaches universal love and non-attachment to worldly matters, with a significant characteristic being the importance placed on the consequences of physical and mental behavior. The followers of Jainism are known as Jains, and they are adherents of the teachings of the Jinas, who are considered fully liberated humans capable of guiding others on the spiritual path. Jainism is well-known for its principle of ahimsa (non-violence), extending beyond the avoidance of war to include vegetarianism and harmlessness towards all living beings.