Jainism
Jainism, one of the oldest religions in the world. 
Jainism believes in a cyclical nature of universe; thus, a universe without beginning, without end and without creator. Its roots can be traced back to the Indus river valley civilization of 3000 B.C. According to dogma, there were 24 great teachers. The last was Lord Mahavira, who lived during the 6th century B.C. These 24 teachers are called Tirthankaras - people who attained all knowledge while living. Thus, there is not one all-powerful Supreme Being that controls everything.
Population:
World - 4 million
United States - 75,000
Tenets:
- Through reincarnation, souls, which are believed to be a unique entity in the universe, take different living forms in the cycle of birth, death and rebirth.
- The Karma theory explains actions and the results they bring to the soul's path. It is the simple law of cause and effect with respect to the soul.
- The way to get rid of one's karma is to follow certain rules of doing good. These include the principals of:
- Ahimsa - to protect all life (non-violence)
- Satya - to speak truth
- Astey - to not steal
- Brahmacharya - to not commit adultery
- Aparigraha - to limit one's possessions
- Jains uphold these principles by practicing vegetarianism and non-violence in thought, deed and action.
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