what were the main teachings of mahavira?

Mahavira, also known as Vardhamana, was the 24th and last Tirthankara (teacher or prophet) of Jainism, an ancient Indian religious tradition. He lived in the 6th century BCE and is considered the founder of Jainism as it is known today. Mahavira's teachings are encapsulated in the Jain philosophy, which emphasizes non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-attachment (aparigraha). Here are some of the main teachings of Mahavira:

1. Ahimsa (Non-Violence): The central tenet of Mahavira's teachings is ahimsa, or non-violence. This principle extends beyond physical harm to include non-violence in thought, speech, and action. Jains believe in the sanctity of all life and practice extreme compassion towards all living beings.
2. Satya (Truthfulness): Mahavira emphasized the importance of truthfulness. Jains strive to speak the truth at all times and avoid falsehood. This commitment to truth aligns with the broader ethical framework of Jainism.
3. Asteya (Non-Stealing): Jains are taught to refrain from stealing or taking what does not belong to them. This principle is based on the idea of non-possession and the understanding that stealing disrupts the balance of karma.
4. Brahmacharya (Celibacy): Mahavira advocated for the practice of celibacy as a means of controlling desires and attachments. Monks and nuns in the Jain tradition follow a life of celibacy as a part of their spiritual discipline.
5. Aparigraha (Non-Attachment): Aparigraha involves minimizing attachment to material possessions. Jains believe that attachment to material things leads to desires and suffering. By practicing non-attachment, individuals can free themselves from the cycle of birth and death.
6. Anekantavada (Non-Absolutism): Mahavira introduced the philosophical concept of anekantavada, which acknowledges the multiplicity of viewpoints and the complexity of reality. It suggests that truth and reality are multifaceted and can be perceived differently from various perspectives.
7. Asceticism and Renunciation: Mahavira renounced worldly life and advocated asceticism. He encouraged his followers, both monks and nuns, to lead a life of discipline, austerity, and detachment from material comforts.
8. Karma and Liberation (Moksha): Central to Jain philosophy is the concept of karma, the accumulated consequences of one's actions. Jains believe that by living a life of virtue, practicing non-violence, and minimizing karma, one can attain liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death (samsara).

These teachings form the foundation of Jainism and are practiced by Jains as they seek to live a life of spiritual purity and ethical conduct. The Jain path emphasizes self-discipline, self-realization, and compassion towards all living beings.