Foundations of Jain Studies

Course 1000

This course offers an introduction to Jain Studies. Begin with an exploration of key Jain teachings and practices, focusing on the principles of non-harming (ahiṃsā) and non-possession (aparigraha), both central to the tradition. Delve, then, into the Three Jewels of Jainism—right worldview, right knowledge, and right conduct—and examine how these principles shape the foundation of the Jain tradition. Next, investigate the profound connection between Jainism and animal advocacy, exploring the teachings of Mahavira on animals as well as contemporary Jain practices of animal care. Afterwards, explore the Jain perspective on the human body, including the importance of health, the role of karmas in shaping one’s embodiment, and the fine line between bodily renunciation and the need to have good health. Finally, observe how Jainism’s commitment to compassion and social justice is expressed through transformative social initiatives, focusing on the work of Acharya Chandanaji and the global reach of her charitable organization, Veerayatan.

This is designed as a one-week course that will take approximately 3 hours to complete, and includes a series of 14 lectures with accompanying readings and a final quiz to guide you through essential foundations in Jain Studies.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the core principles of Jainism, including the practices of non-harming (ahiṃsā) and non-possession (aparigraha)
Analyze the Three Jewels of Jainism (right worldview, right knowledge, and right conduct)
Evaluate the relationship between Jainism and animal advocacy
Learn the Jain perspective on the human body and its role in spiritual practice
Assess the role of compassion and social justice in Jainism

Course Length

1 hour of video lectures + readings and final quiz

Learning Area

Jain Philosophy, History & Anthropology

Climate Change & Environment

Animal Advocacy & Biodiversity

Yoga, Self-care and Spirituality

Social Justice

Instructor

Christopher Miller, PhD

Christopher Jain Miller is the co-founder, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Professor of Jain and Yoga Studies at Arihanta Institute. He completed his PhD in the study of Religion at the University of California, Davis and is also a Visiting Researcher at the University of Zürich's Asien-Orient-Institut and Visiting Professor at Claremont School of Theology where he co-developed and co-runs a remotely available Masters Degree Program focusing on Engaged Jain Studies. His current research focuses on Engaged Jainism and Modern Yoga, and he is the author of a number of articles and book chapters concerned with Jainism and the practice of modern yoga. Christopher is the author of Embodying Transnational Yoga: Eating, Singing, and Breathing in Transformation (Routledge 2024), as well as co-editor of the volumes Engaged Jainism: Critical and Constructive Approaches to the Study of Jain Social Engagement (SUNY 2025) and Beacons of Dharma: Spiritual Exemplars for the Modern Age (Lexington 2020).