Jainism

Founder: Mahavira (599 B.C. - 527 B.C.)

Religious Texts: Kalpa Sutra , Akaranga Sutra

View of God: Polytheistic or Atheistic. A Jain may believe in "gods" but they are not gods in any kind of Judeo-Christian sense. They are merely finite beings on another in some celestrial realm. They too are in the cycle of rebirth and in need of salvation.

Teachings:

1. There are many souls. This is in contrast to Hinduism and Buddhism which teach a universal world soul.
2. All living things have souls. This includes humans, gods, and grass!
3. By nature, people tend toward nirvana or eternal bliss but are kept from attaining nirvana by karma.
4. The goal of the Jain is to rid themselves of karma and thus attain nirvana.
5. Karma is associated with matter. When the Jain indulges himself or herself, they are adding up karma in their lives, thus prolonging their wait for nirvana.
6. Twenty three beings, besides Mahavira, have attained enlightenment.
7. Jains must take vows and obey those vows. Vows differ between monks and laity.

Vows Table (taken from "Neighboring Faiths", page 256)