About this myth
Jain Kalachakra is a Continuity myth originating from the Jainism belief system. The main deity depicted in this myth is likely Mahavira.
In a nutshell
Myth summary
Followers of Jainism do not believe there was a formal creation event by a deity. It is believed that the universe always existed and flows through the course of time in cycles, much like seasons. For that reason, Jainism represents a continuity myth instead of a creation myth.
Attested: Unknown
Created: Unknown
Main deity: Mahavira
Belief system: Jainism
Origin: Asia › Southern Asia › India
Belief system
More information
The Jain Kalachakra continuity (non-creationism) myth comes from the people of modern-day India who practice the religion of Jainism. In what is the only one of its kind in the entire OMNIKA index, Jainism doesn't contain a creation myth—in fact, the myth seems to completely reject the idea of creation through any deity. The Yogaśāstra, written in the 12th century and attributed to Ācārya Hemacandra, writes clearly that "This universe is not created nor sustained by anyone; It is self sustaining, without any base or support."
Because Jainsim does not teach a formal creation myth, it is important to understand the difference between a continuity myth and a creation myth.
Texts related to this myth
See full texts of this myth via related artifacts. Where available, a translation is included.
All texts
Title | - notes
- translate
- vertical_split
- format_list_numbered
- assignment_turned_in
|