Mailbox Philosophy - Jainism

          The foundation of Jain philosophy is based on three intertwined thoughts and behaviors which they have determined to be correct:

• Faith
• Knowledge
• Conduct

          Adherents to the Jain way of living strive to avoid:

• Violence or harm to living things (which includes food; most are vegan and intermittent fast)
• Deception or lies (if speaking truth might harm someone, a Jainist chooses silence)
• Stealing or misappropriation
• Passion or lack of chastity
• Acquisition or possession of material goods

          Jainism is not a religion because they do not believe in a creator.  According to Jain teachings, the universe has always existed (with fluctuating levels of energy) and will always exist.

          My artwork, Mailbox Philosophy - Jainism (Now in letterbox and living color) depicts an ascetic Jain (possess no clothing) wearing a traditional mouth cover (prevent inhaling small insects) while carrying a feather whisk (to remove insects from the path).  Strict followers of the Jain philosophy do not have residences or mailboxes (an octopus has, instead, camouflaged itself as a mailbox); above which, the octopus's stretched skin bears the Jain's motto, in Sanskrit, Parasparopagraho Jīvānām, which translates approximately to:  All Life Is Dependently Inter-connected.  Although self defense is permitted, the Jain's posture is not one of fear (from the Japanese Spider Crab) rather, she appears to be glancing at the Jain flag while she takes advantage of the water (Jains do not waste water by bathing).

more philosophic musings:
...on stoicism...
...on studying philosophy...
...on death and fate...