50+ Lord Mahavira Quotes that Will Change Your Perspective on Life


Published: 25 Mar 2025


Mahavira Jain also known as Vardhamana, was the 24th Tirthankara in Jainism. A spiritual teacher and the founder of the Jain Religion.

His teachings emphasize non-violence, truth, asceticism, and spiritual enlightenment. The slogan of Jainism is the path of peace and helping others with your actions.

As we conclude our exploration into the timeless wisdom of Lord Mahavira, may his teachings continue to inspire and guide you on the path of righteousness.

Mahavira Jain Life Lesson Quotes

Here you will get some quotes from Mahavira’s beliefs and thoughts in English that will help you to establish peace in daily life and also enlighten your spirit.

1. Do not be proud of your body, because it is just a temporary abode of the soul.
It reminds us to give more importance to spiritual growth than physical appearance.

Moral Lesson: It describes that we should focus on inner qualities and soul growth rather than giving importance or being proud of our physical appearance.  Because the body is a temporary home for the soul in this world.

2. Non-violence is the highest religion.
The best belief in this world is the way of peace and not harming others

Importance of Peace: It means that peace and avoiding any kind of harm to others are more essential in life than religious beliefs.

3. Happiness and sorrow end when there is a cessation of desire.
4. All living beings long to live. They all want to live for one reason: to know themselves and to be liberated from suffering.
5. He who neglects or disregards the existence of earth, air, fire, water, and vegetation disregards his existence which is entwined with them.
6. A man is seated on top of a tree in a burning forest. He sees all living beings perish. But he doesn’t realize that the same fate is soon to overtake him.
7. Attachment and aversion are the root cause of karma, and Karma originates from infatuation. Karma is the root cause of birth and death, and these are said to be the source of misery. None can escape the effect of their past karma.

Main Cause of Karma: This quote tells us that our like and dislike actions are the main cause of Karma. When someone faces problems of challenges or suffering it may be due to their past actions.

8. He who has conquered himself by himself has a friend, but he who has conquered all passions by the help of friends has none.
Self-discipline and self-awareness are essential for growth and satisfaction.

Short Advice: This quote indicates that someone who has overcome their weaknesses without depending on others for support has true inner strength and determination.

9. A man should wander about treating all creatures as he would be treated.
10. Anger begets more anger, and forgiveness and love lead to more forgiveness and love.

Mahavir Jain Quotes in English

Inspirational Mahavira quotes about life will help to enlighten your soul and also create a passion for helping others.

11. All souls are alike, none is superior or inferior.
It emphasizes the idea of equality, regardless of differences in status, wealth, or background.

Accepting People Without Judgment: We should consider all people equal without judging them by their colors or wealth. Instead, we should love them for their good deeds.

12. A wise man should have money in his head, but not in his heart.
13. Live and allow others to live; hurt no one; life is dear to all living beings.
14. The best way to observe such a day is to strive for a deeper understanding of truths and non-violence.
15. To conquer oneself is a greater task than conquering others.
It points out the importance of inner mastery over outer wins.

Mastering Yourself: We can live happier and more meaningful lives if we overcome our limitations and master the things we want.

16. The soul comes alone and goes alone, no one companies it and no one becomes its mate.
17. In happiness and suffering, in joy and grief, we should regard all creatures as we regard ourselves.
The importance of empathy and kindness towards all living beings in their difficult situations.

Doing Kindness with Others: It underscores the concept of treating others with the same compassion, wisdom, and awareness we expect from ourselves.

18. Austerity and non-injury, truth, non-stealing, cleanliness, and non-possession are the five vows.
19. There is no separate existence of God. Everybody can attain Godhood by making supreme efforts in the right direction.
20. The essence of knowledge is, having it, to apply it; not having it, to confess your ignorance.

Lord Mahavira’s Quotes About Life

Jain religious quotes inspire us to become good people with a quality of kindness and to establish peace worldwide. 

21. In the state of passion, man is likely to forget the codes of conduct and to neglect the wise counsel of his well-wishers.
22. One should not injure, subjugate, enslave, torture, or kill any animal, living being, organism, or sentient being. This doctrine of non-violence is immaculate, immutable, and eternal.
23. Do not injure, abuse, oppress, enslave, insult, torment, torture, or kill any creature or living being.
24. He who is unmoved, unattached, and free, who restrains himself and is firm in his principles is said to be an ascetic.
25. The one who neglects his duty, because it seems too small, is gradually giving away his ability to shoulder responsibilities.
Even neglecting small responsibilities can weaken one's ability to handle larger duties over time.
26. Silence and self-control, that’s non-violence.
27. The only purpose of acquiring wealth is to use it for the service of others.
The purpose of gaining wealth is to benefit others through your acts of kindness and generosity.

Good Use of Your Money: Use your wealth for the betterment or welfare of society and the well-being of others, not just for your benefit or use.

28. The right faith is that which is unwavering. It upholds the true nature of the soul and bestows upon us the highest bliss.
29. The one who is harmed by the non-practice of non-violence and is not aware of it is a man with weak power of understanding.
30. You are not the only element that is the most important principle of the environment.

Mahavir Quotes for Inner Growth

In this section, you’ll discover some of the most thought-provoking quotes by Lord Mahavira. These Jainism teachings focus on achieving inner peace and living a balanced life. Mahavira’s wisdom inspires us to look within and grow spiritually by practicing goodness like non-violence, truthfulness, and self-control.

31. “Kill not, cause no pain. Nonviolence is the greatest religion.”
Lord Mahavira's quote on non-violence being the greatest religion
Lord Mahavira on non-violence as the greatest form of religion
32. “By sincerity, a man gains physical, mental and linguistic straightforwardness, and harmonious tendency; that is, congruence of speech and action.”
33. “If you want to cultivate a habit, do it without any reservation, till it is firmly established. Until it is so confirmed, until it becomes a part of your character, let there be no exception, no relaxation of effort.”
34. “Soul is the central point of spiritual discipline.”
35. “All breathing, existing, living, sentient creatures should not be slain, nor treated with violence, nor abused, nor tormented, nor driven away.”

Inspiring Mahavir Jayanti Quotes

In this section, you’ll find powerful and inspiring quotes from Lord Mahavira, celebrating his teachings and the spiritual path he showed. These quotes on Mahavir Jayanti encourage us to live with kindness, truth, and non-violence.

36. “The essence of religion is non-violence, truthfulness, purity of mind, and self-control.”
Lord Mahavira's message on non-violence, truthfulness, and self-control for a peaceful life
Celebrating Lord Mahavira’s teachings of non-violence and self-control
37. “Believe nothing in the faith of traditions, even though they have been held in honor for many generations.”
38. “The wise man does not talk about his wisdom, he acts it.”
39. “Treat all creatures with kindness, not only because it is the right thing to do, but because it is who you are.”
40. “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.”
41. “The more we practice non-violence in our words, thoughts, and deeds, the more we will experience inner peace.”

Jainism Quotes

In this section, you’ll explore the profound wisdom found in Jainism quotations. Lord Mahavira’s teachings guide us to live with compassion and mindfulness, creating harmony within ourselves and the world around us.

42. “The nature of things is dharma.” – Mahavira
43. “Do not deprive someone of his livelihood. This is a sinful tendency.”Lord Mahavira
44. “Faith and Prayer both are invisible, but they make impossible things possible.” Vardhamana Mahavira
Lord Mahavira's quote on faith and prayer making impossible things possible
Faith and prayer transform the impossible into the possible
45. “Eating constitutes the greatest obstacle to self-control; it gives rise to indolence.”Tirthankara Mahavira
46. “The happiest people are givers, not takers.”Mahavira Swami
47. “In happiness & suffering, in joy and grief, we should regard all creatures as we regard our own self.”Lord Vardhamana Mahavira

Mahavira Quotes on Ethics and morality

In this area of blog post, you’ll find powerful quotes from Lord Mahavira that focus on standards and morality. Mahavira believed that true character shines through our actions, words, and thoughts, guiding us toward a righteous and peaceful life.

48. “Respect for all living beings is non‑violence.”
49. “One who neglects or disregards the existence of earth, air, fire, water, and vegetation disregards his own existence which is entwined with them.”
Lord Mahavira's quote on the interconnectedness of earth, air, fire, water, vegetation, and human existence
Lord Mahavira on the interconnectedness of nature and human existence

Lord Mahavira Quotes on Truth and wisdom

You’ll find Lord Mahavira’s profound teachings on truth and wisdom here. According to Mahavira, true wisdom comes from embracing honesty in our thoughts and actions, which leads to inner peace and spiritual growth.

50. “Silence and self-control is non-violence.”
51. “There is no enemy out of your soul. The real enemies live inside yourself, they are anger, pride, greed, attachments, and hate.”
52. “It is better to win over self than to win over a million enemies.”
53. “Truthfulness, chastity, simplicity, and equanimity are the four pillars of a pious life.”
54. “The essence of all knowledge consists in not committing violence.”

FAQs:

What are the main teachings of Jainism?

These are a few prominent teachings of Jainism. 

1. Non-Violence (Ahimsa)

2. Being honest (Satya)

3. Refusing to steal (Asteya)

4. Non-Possessiveness (Aparigraha)

5. Equality of Souls 

6. Karma and Its Outcomes

How Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated?

Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated to honor the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir. The celebration includes the following functions.

  • Prayer
  • Temple visits
  • Fasting
  • Meditation
  • Charity 
  • Processions
  • Cultural Programs.
What three words did Lord Mahavira quote to establish the world’s creation?

Lord Mahavira described the creation of the world with three simple words: “Live and Let Live.” These words emphasize the interconnectedness of all living beings and highlight the importance of non-violence and kindness in our actions toward others.

What are famous Mahavira’s quotes?

Some famous quotes by Lord Mahavira include:

“Non-violence is the highest religion,”

“The soul is not born, nor does it die,”

“A person should not be too attached to wealth or possessions.”

These quotations teach the values of peace, self-control, and spiritual evolution.

What are some great personality sayings about Jainism?

Many great personalities have praised Jainism for its deep, righteous values.

Mahatma Gandhi said, “The Jain principle of non-violence has inspired me to live a life of peace.”

Albert Schweitzer also admired Jainism, calling it a philosophy of “reverence for life” and respect for all living beings.

Conclusion:

I hope you liked my quotes collection on “Lord Mahavira Teachings.” These citations will prove valuable for establishing peace and compassion in this cruel society. 

Jainism quotes will leave a motivational impact on the lives of people. You will also get some images of Lord Mahavira’s quotes about life.

What’s the most beautiful life lesson you’ve learned after reading spiritual Mahavir Swami quotes about life? Could you share it in the comments section below? I’d love to hear from you.




Muhammad Asad Avatar
Muhammad Asad

Muhammad Asad is the passionate mind behind Exciting Quotes, where he shares daily doses of inspiration to help readers live their best lives. With over three years of experience in crafting memorable quotes, Asad has become a trusted voice in the world of motivation and positivity.


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