Rite to Die: Sallekhana and End of Life

September 30, 2015

(Scientific American) – There are many aspects involved in preparing for the end of life. For Jains, it may include Sallekhan?, a voluntary and gradual reduction of food (and eventually water) until the individual fasts to death. Originating in the Ganges basin of eastern India between the 7th–5th century BC, Jainism is often described as a cousin to Hinduism and Buddhism. Karma is a central tenet and asceticism and forgiveness are emphasized. Jains believe in reincarnation and that all beings have souls, and as a result, they are strict vegetarians.