The 25th SOAS Annual Jaina Lecture

Symbols, Vehicles and Sculptures of Animals in Jaina Temple Architecture

Abstract

In this presentation Professor Hegewald will examine depictions of animals in Jaina art and architecture in India and the diaspora and explain their meaning within the Jaina religious system.

Jainas practice strict vegetarianism and follow ahiṃsā as their core concept. In addition to preventing violence being done to animals, Jainas are encouraged to actively care for them. As this is seen as a religious act, many temple complexes have birdhouses adjacent to shrines as well as shelters and animal hospitals close by.

In the area of iconography, theriomorphic symbols (lāñchanas) are associated with most of the twenty-four Jinas and also many Jaina gods and goddesses have themselves part-animal forms and ride on zoomorphic carriers.

Depictions of animals are also found in the architecture of the Jaina temple. There are lion thrones (siṁhāsanas) and regular depictions of the mythical hybrid sea animal of the makara in the form of arches above doorways, windows and niches (makaratoraṇas). In addition, prominent elephant sculptures regularly adorn the entrance gateways and porches of Jaina temple edifices and walled complexes.

This shows, that the Jainas regard animals with great respect and invest many with sacred meanings. Therefore, depictions of them take a prominent place in the visual fields of iconography and temple architecture.

Speaker

Julia B. Hegewald (University of Bonn)

Registration

Please follow the link at the top of the page to register for this event.

This lecture will be followed by the The 27th Jaina Studies Workshop on Saturday 28th March .