Some of the holiest sites in India sit way off the well-worn
path. Ranakpur, about three hours from the tourist center of Udaipur, is on the
list of secluded locations.
Dedicated to Adinath, the first enlightened human according
to Jain teachings, Ranakpur’s temple is one of the most sacred Jain sites in
India. It is also among the more beautiful and intricately carved temples we
encountered.
Constructed during the 15th century, the temple is widely
considered to be one of the most spectacular Jain structures on earth. Inside
one finds over 1,440 pillars, each of which is unique (including one pillar at
an odd angle, which supposedly serves as a reminder of the futile nature of
striving for perfection). The pillars, walls, statues, and ceilings are carved
in such elegant detail that one scarcely knows where to look.
When they aren’t building lavish and incredible temples, the
Jains tend to be a peaceful bunch. Not a particularly well-known religion,
Jainism closely resembles the Western conception of Buddhism.
The primary path of Jainism is strict adherence to the
practice of ahimsa, or nonviolence. Not only does this include a
vegetarian diet, but often also excludes onions, garlic, and other root
vegetables, as living organisms may be harmed when the vegetables are pulled
from the ground. In order to avoid inadvertently harming even the tiniest of
insects many strict Jains sweep the ground ahead of them as they walk, rarely
go out at night, and even go naked lest bugs get trapped in their clothing.
In addition to ahimsa, vows taken by Jains include satya
(non-lying), asteya (non-stealing), bramachariya (celibacy), and aparigraha
(non-attachment). Monks practice these vows in the strictest sense, while the
common man is expected to adhere to them as much as is practical.
With 4.2 million followers Jainism is among the smallest of
the major world religions, but they sure do know how to make some beautiful temples.
Where spirituality and architecture meet, there one finds some of humanity’s
most amazing structures.
