Mahavira

• Vardhamana Mahavira
• Son of Siddhartha of Kundagrama and Princess Trishala of the Licchavi Tribe of Vajji Sangha

• Born in early 6th Century BCE

• Left home at the age of 30

• spent 12 years in the forest
• Taught in Prakrit Language
• Teachings were first written down in Valabhi, Gujarat in 500 AD

Main lessons¶

• ahimsa (nothing, even insects should be killed)
  • caused farmers to follow him less than traders
• leave home and beg for food
  • give up clothes too
• No stealing, absolute honesty