Jain Sangh Tulsa OK 2004 05 Pratistha

Author(s): Jain Sangh Tulsa
Publisher: USA Jain Sangh Tulsa OK
Catalog link: https://jainqq.org/explore/528811/1

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TULSA JAIN SANGH Pratishtha Mahotsav May 29-31, 2004 Souvenir Non-violence is the Supreme Religion TULSA JAIN CENTER 6922 S. Utica Ave. Tulsa, Oklahoma 74136 Main Education International

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INDIA PALACE CUISINE OF INDIA Specializing in catering Lunch buffet: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM Fine Dining: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM DINE IN - CARRY OUT 6963 South Lewis, Tulsa 492-8040 (Phone) 492-8350 (Fax) Banquet Hall is available for private parties. Please contact manager for more information.

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TOIVOT USE

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*Pray Together* Lord Parshwanath Help us to have the compassion to share with others instead of always seeking more for ourselves. Help us to understand the needs of those around us and the ways that we can fulfill our purpose in filling some of those needs. Most importantly, Shri Lord Parshwanath, today and every day throughout the year, help us to show to others a little of the awesome love that you have showered upon us. Let us show by example the real truth that kindness can never be kept secret. It can never be hidden or stored away for some future need. Kindness can only grow and flourish if it is shared without hesitation, freely, openly and without discrimination. Shri Lord Parshwanath, we all together pray for the gift of happiness that You daily offer to everyone. "Shri Lord Parshwanath Bless You" ** Dr. Ambalal and Pushpa Rawal *

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Namokar Maha Mantra The Universal Prayer NAMO ARIHANTANAM Obeisance to the Arihantas perfect souls Godmen I bow down to those who have reached omniscience in the flesh and teach the road to everlasting life in the liberated state NAMO SIDDHANAM Obeisance to the Siddhas liberated bodiless souls I bow down to those who have attained perfect knowledge and liberated their souls of all karma NAMO AIRIYANAM Obeisance to the masters heads of congregations - NAMO UVAJJHYANAM I bow down to those who have experienced self-realization of their souls through self-control and self-sacrifice Obeisance to the teachers ascetic teachers I bow down to those who understand the true nature of soul and teach the importance of the spiritual over the material NAMO LOE SAVVA SAHUNAM Obeisance to all the ascetic aspirants in the universe I bow down to those who strictly follow the five great vows of conduct and inspire us to live a virtuous life ESO PANCHA NAMOKARO This five fold obeisance mantra To these five types of great souls I offer my praise SAVVA PAVAPPANASANO Destroys all demerit Such praise will help diminish my sins MANGALANAMCA SAVVESIM And is the first and foremost of all Giving this praise is most auspicious PADHAMAM HAVAI MANGALAM Auspicious recitations So auspicious as to bring happiness and bliss.

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 TULSA JAIN SANGH INC. Established: 1990 A Non-profit Tax Exempt Religious Organization New Jain Center Address: 6922 South Utica Ave, Tulsa OK 74136 Mailing Address: P.O.Box 702624 Tulsa OK 74170-2624 President- Kanti Shah, V. P-Bharti Ajmera, Treasurer- Milesh Shah, Secretary-Surendra Doshi, Derashar coordinator-Joystna Mehta Phone: 918.369.3163 918.747.7677 918.745.0074 9 18.322.5450 918.491.6392 Trustee - Chandrakant Shah, Trustee - Mridula Shah Committee Co-Chair Pratishtha Chair-Kanti Shah. Invitation- Surendra Doshi (918-322-5450). Fund Raising-Dr. Ambalal Rawal (918-492-5433). Travel-Kishor Shah 918-249-4455. Food- Yogini Shah 918-627-8440 Cultural- Mridula Shah 918-249-4455. PA System-Rajen Shah 918-712-9640. Public Relation-Mahendra Parekh 918-459-0081 May 10, 2004 Jai Jinendra On behalf of Tulsa Jain Sangh, I take great pleasure and honor to welcome our invited dignitaries and all of you to Tulsa. These three days of auspicious Pratishtha Mahotsav will be lifetime memory. We have tried very hard to plan it perfect to be a memorable history. I hope you find it same way. I hope and urge you to enjoy, participate and be part of auspicious Pratishtha Mahotsav. Many members working countless hours have made this event possible. I want to thank all volunteers, members, officers and many supporters for their guidance and insight planning of this auspicious Pratishtha Mahotsav. I sincerely hope you enjoy this event. Sincerely, Tulsa Jain Sangh, Inc Kant shah Kanti Shah President & Pratishtha Chair Jain Education Intemational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 JMIC Jain Meditation International Center 401 East 86 Street #20A. New York New York 10028. 212-362-6483. 212-534-6090 TAX EXEMPT #M-75-ED-1739 NON-PROFIT EDUCATIONAL ORGANIZATION VICENCE Founder His Holiness Pujya Shree Chitrabhanuji E IN ACTION. RELATIVITY, Directors Jivan Proctor Pramoda Chitrabhanu Dear Tulsa Jain Sangha and Its Members, Barry Wolfe Devendra Peer * THINKING May 29, 2004 On this great auspicious occasion of Pratishtha Mahotsav, let the blessings of Jineshwar Bhagwan shower upon your Sangha. In today's time when life is suffering from war and violence, a presence of a temple is like an oasis in a desert. A Jain Temple represents the idea of Ahinsa, peace, love and contentment. It is like a beacon to all who walk on the path of compassion and reverence for life. This temple will provide opportunities for people to meet on a regular basis for spiritual discussions and religious activities. The tradition, custom and culture of this time-honored ancient philosophy that will be imparted to your posterity are invaluable and irreplaceable. This is the best heritage one can give to our children. Your Sangha is small but the work that you had taken up and have accomplished is stupendous and laudable. All my best wishes for this event and celebration. Jai Jinendra, Pramoda Chitabhanu Pramoda Chitrabhanu Jain International Meditation Center E-1, Queen's View, 28-30 Walkeshwar Road, Mumbai 400 006. India Phone: 368 6887 Tel./Fax: 367 3355

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VIOLENCE IN NOUT Founder His Holiness Pujya Shree Chitrabhanuji Directors Jivan Proctor Pramoda Chitrabhanu Barry Wolfe Devendra Peer JMIC Jain Meditation International Center 401 East 86 Street. #20A. New York New York 10028 212-362-6483. 212-534-6090 TAX EXEMPT # M-75-ED-1739 NON-PROFIT EDUCATIONAL ORGANIZATION ACTION. ATIVITY IN THINKI Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 My dear President, Directors, and Members of Tulsa Jain Sangh, Jai Jinendra! May 29, 2004 Blessings to all of you. You are receiving blessings by servicing the cause of Reverence for Life and by providing an environment of purity and sanctity in the form of a temple. The Temple of Bhagwan Mahavira Swami. This Pratishtha Mahotsav is a great occasion for all peace-loving aspirants. This Temple welcomes one and all, and it is an inspiration to all. People from all walks of life, without discrimination of caste or creed, man or woman, young or old, rich or poor, can come and pray peacefully to get in touch with their inner beauty and tranquility. The greed of man and the ego of politicians, the narrowmindedness of parochialism and fanaticism of fundamentalists have driven people to separatism and hate. War is dehumanizing. Because of war, exploitation and capitalism, millions of people are being killed, and billions are suffering agonizing pain and torture. In this perplexing climate of fear, suffering and uncertainty, the living message of Ahinsa and peaceful co-existence is an answer. It is a healing and soothing balm. Vardaman Mahavira lighted the lamps of ahimsa, anekantavada, aparigraha, law of karma, and self-realization. Now it is our privilege to go on pouring the oil of service in these lamps to keep illuminating the path of love, peace, understanding, and simplicity. Jain International Meditation Center E-1, Queen's View, 28-30 Walkeshwar Road, Mumbai 400 006. India Phone: 368 6887. Tel./Fax: 367 3355

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Advance Research Chemicals, Inc. Tanumal Chemical Complex 1110 West Keystone Avenue Catoosa, OK 74015-3033 U.S.A. Dr. Dayal T. Meshri President/CEO BBB MEMBER Eastern Oklahoma 2000 INTEGRITY AWARD WINNER FOR MARKETPLACE ETHICS Hereby, we, Drs. Dayal, Indu, Gita, Sanjay, Julie, Asha, Bella & Daya Meshri, convey our hearty congratulations to the Members of the Tulsa Jain Sangh for the task they undertook and built this beautiful Jain Temple, which will be a happy and healthy bond between Hindu and Jain Community for many years to come! We wish the organizers & volunteers a great success at Pratishata Mahotsav with the blessings of Bhagwan Mahaveerji. Tel: (918) 266-6789 Fax: (918) 266-6796 e-mail: sales@fluoridearc.com www.fluoridearc.com

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 CONGRATULATIONS, JAIN SOCIETY OF TULSA, OKLAHOMA for Temple Pratishtha WITH BEST COMPLIMENTS FROM THE JAIN SOCIETY OF GREATER DETROIT

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 JMOIC Jarr Meditation International Center 401 East 86 Street . #20A . New York New York 10028. 212-362-6483. 212-534-6090 TAX EXEMPT. M-75-ED-1739 NON-PROFIT EDUCATIONAL ORGANIZATION Founder Now it is time for all of us to bring Jain Dharma to life through His Holiness Pujya practice and expression, to protect the sacredness of all life Shree Chitrabhanuji form and to influence our surroundings and our growing Directors generation. This enlightened generation will in turn influence Jivan Proctor others, and the succeeding generations would influence their Pramoda Chitrabhanu coming generation. coming generation. In this way, the teaching and heritage of Barry Wolfe Peaceful Liberators will go on and grow forever. We are what Devendra Peer we are as vegetarians and believers in Reverence for Life because of the influence of our ancestors and parents. So, in the same way, by being models, we will be able to influence future generations. Let us tap the power of our senses, mind, heart and soul by nourishing our body with vegetarian food, enlightening our mind with creative ideas, enriching our heart with the experience of Reverence for Life, and illuminating our soul with wisdom and self-realization. May my appreciation and blessings be with all of you on this auspicious occasion. Love and Blessings, Chitrabhanu TION.RE FLATIVITY CE IN 4 NINI NI INIMI Jaime laternational Meditation Center E-1, Queen's View.. 28-30 Walkeshwar Road, Mumbai - 400 006. India Phone 368 6887 . Tel. / Fax: 367 3355 Education Intemational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Best Wishes for The Pratishtha Mahotsav Conducted under guidance and presence of Pujay Gurudev Shree Chitrabhanuji And Pujay Shree Pramodaben Chitrabhanu Dhara, Hardik, Rita & Ketan Sheth 8810 S. 73rd E. Ave. Tulsa, OK 74133 Phone: (918) 250-3075 One Stop Accounting and Tax Resource For Business and Individuals Accounting, Bookkeeping, Payroll, Tax Planning, Consulting and Tax Preparation Quality, On time, and Accurate Services Rita Sheth, MBA, CPA Professional Limited Liability Company Phone: (918) 254-4913; Fax: (918) 459-8580 RitaSheth@Cox.net Cell: (918) 812-7802 Jain Education Intemational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Sri Parshwanathaya Nanal Sri Swamiji : (08185) 62721 Sri Padmavathi Davi Prasanna 30 Office : (00185) 62722 HIS HOLINESS JAGADGURU SWASTI SRI SRI SRI SRI DEVENDRAKEERTY BHATTARAKA PATTAACHARYAVARYA MAHASWAMIJI SRI HOMRUJA JAIN MATH P.O. HOMBUJA. Shimoga Dist. Karnataka State, INDIA - 577 436. prmpuujy shriimd jgdduru, bhaartgaurv, svsti shrii shrii shrii shrii deeveeNdrkiirti bhttttaark pttttaacaaryvry mhaasvaamigllvru shrii huuNbuj jain mtth God 40: SOWZ. 833AR 20, Borto tou. - M22 val. HOLY BLESSINGS APRIL 22nd 2004 Ref No :.......... Date.... IT IS OUR PLEASURE TO KNOW THAT TUL SA JAIN SOCIETY IS GOING TO PUBLISH A SOUVENIR TO COMMEMORATE THE CONSECRATION CEREMONY OF NEW JAIN IDOLS IN THE NEW JAIN TEMPLE AT TULSA, OKLAHAMA, USA BEINO HELD TROM MAY 29th THROUGH 30th 2004. LORD TEERTHANKARS USED TO DREACH THE HOLY DHARMA IN THE SAMA VASARANAS IN ANCIENT DAYS. BUT DURING THE ADSENCE OF SUCH HOLY SAMA VASARANAS NOBODY COULD GO TO SAMA VASARANAS TO CRAVE THE BLESSINGS OF LORD TEERTHANKARAS. HENCE OUR ANCI STORS WILT THE TEMPLES AS THE REPLICAS OY SAMAVA SARANAS AND INSTALID THE IDOLS OF LORD JINESWARAS. (TEERTHANKARAS). SAME PROCEEDURES ARE BEING FOLLOWED DURING THESE DAYS ALSO, THESE TEMPLES GENERATE THE SPERITUAL RELIGIOUS AND MORAL VALUES REQUIRED IN OUR DAY TO DAY LITL. WE APPRECIATE TULSA JAIN SANGH AT TULSA, OKLAHAMA U SA FOR THPIR ET FORTS IN BRINGING UP A JAIN TEMPLE DEDICATED TO ALL SUBSECTS OF JAIN JAITH VIZ SVETAMRAR, DIOAMDAR, STANAKVASI. TERAPANTH, SRIMAD RAJ CHAND PANTH ETC. THEIR EFFORTS SHALL BRING THE HARMONY AMONG ALL THESE SU SECTS WHICH IS THE NEED OF THE HOUR, WE BLESS TOR THE GRAND SUCCESS OF THE PRATHI STA CEREMONY. WITH BLESSINOS. athalt Find (H,H. JAGADGURU SRI DEVENDRAKEERTY MAHA SWAMIJI)

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JAINA Federation of Jain Associations in North America Founded 1981 A Non-Profit Tax Exempt Religious Organization IRS Code Section 501(c 3 El # 54-1280028 JAINA Headquarters: P.O. Box 700, Getzville, NY 14068 USA : Phone & Fax (716) 636-5342 MO-MOUxa parasparopajIvanAna April 26, 2004 President Anop R. Vora Rochester, NY (585) 473-9290 vora5000@yahoo.com First Vice President Kirit C. Daftary Waco, TX (254) 776-4209 netrat@att.net Tulsa Jain Sangh, Inc. PO Box 702624 Tulsa, OK 74170-2624 Dear Friends: Secretary Sushil Jain Gaithersburg, MD (301) 670-0519 sushiljain@aol.com I am very pleased to know that the Pratishtha ceremony at Tulsa Jain Sangh is being celebrated during the Memorial Day weekend this year. I am sorry that I will not be able to participate in this important event due to my daughter's wedding at the same time. Treasurer Jit Turakhia Liverpool, NY (315) 622-3287 jtsystem@twcny.rr.com Vice Presidents Lata Champsee Don Mills, ONT (416) 441-2200 latachampsee@usa.net I sincerely wish and pray that the whole celebration will be a great success and the attendees imbibe great values of the Tirthankars, Monks and Saints. Rohak Vora San Diego, CA (858) 676-1150 rohakvora@hotmail.com Building a temple with limited resources is not a small feat by any means. My heartiest congratulations to the local Sangh for this great achievement. Udai Jain Sugar Land, TX (281) 980-0741 jainudail@aol.corn Best wishes for a memorable Pratishtha Mahotsav. With warmest personal regards, Pravin K. Shah Raleigh, NC (919) 859-4994 pkshahi @attglobal.net Keerti Shah Bartlett, IL (630) 837-8716 knshah@att.net Anta.vora Anop R. Vora President, JAINA Sumati Shah Searingtown, NY (516) 625-8617 drsshah@aol.com Jalna\Memo-04\Tulsa Sangh-4264 Past President Bipin D. Parikh Des Plains, IL (847) 699-1294 dmdmrch@core.com

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 FORWARD The Temple is our Soul; The Jain Center is our Dream. The Temple is a monument of Peace, Harmony and Truth. Pratishtha is the first step towards promoting: Peace through Non-violence (Ahimsa); Utmost reverence to all forms of life; Harmony with the environment and compassionate interdependence with nature and all living beings, and Truth through the multiplicity of views (Anekant), as foundations of a civilized society. With the creation of an inspiring Jain Center, we are fulfilling our Dream to pass our rich Jain Heritage to the able hands of our Youth. Out ultimate accomplishment will be the active involvement of our community for generations to come.

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 TULSA JAIN SANGH INC. Established: 1990 A Non-profit Tax Exempt Religious Organization New Jain Center Address: 6922 South Utica Ave, Tulsa OK 74136 Mailing Address: P.O.Box 702624 Tulsa OK 74170-2624 President-Kanti Shah, V. P-Bharti Ajmera, Treasurer- Milesh Shah, Secretary-Surendra Doshi, Derashar coordinator-Joystna Mehta Phone: 918.369.3163 918.747.7677 918.745.0074 918.322.5450 918.491.6392 Trustee - Chandrakant Shah, Trustee - Mridula Shah PLEDGES RECEIVED TOWARDS TULSA JAIN CENTER Name Mr. & Mrs Nilesh Bhow $21,000 Mr. & Mrs Haresh Ajmera $15,000 Mr. & Mrs Mukesh Shah $15,000 Mr. & Mrs Ashok Patel $10,000 Mr. & Mrs Kishor Mehta $8,000 Mr. & Mrs Milesh Shah $8,000 Mr. & Mrs Rajen Shah $5,101 Mr. & Mrs Ambalal Rawal $5,001 JAINA- Charitable Trust. $5,000 Mr. & Mrs Rasik Shah $5,000 Mr. & Mrs Dayal Meshri $5,000 Mr. & Mrs Ketan Sheth $3,001 Mr. & Mrs Pankaj Sheth $3,001 Mr. & Mrs Gaurang Shah $3,001 Mr. & Mrs Mahendra Parekh $2,500 Detroit Jain Society $2,500 Bina Lalan $2,001 Mr. & Mrs Kanti Shah $2,000 Mr. & Mrs Surendra Doshi $1,502 Mr. & Mrs Ashok Ranchod $1,501 Mr. & Mrs Dixit Kadakia $1,102 Mr. & Mrs Kirti Shah $1,002 Mr. Mrs, Laxman Godhania $1,001 Mr. & Mrs. Mehul Rajparia $1,001 Jain Society of New Jersey $1,001 Mr. & Mrs Suresh Bharani $1,001 Mr. & Mrs Tushar Mehta $501 Mr. & Mrs Shukhadia $501 Jain Society of Washigton $501 Mr. & Mrs. Niraj Gandhi $500 Bijal Sutaria $301 Mr. & Mrs. Sanghvi $201 Jain Education Intemational

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* * * April 24, 2004 1986- [A] Sunday Jain School started for children 1990-[A] Jinchandraji and Kirtichandraji (Triputi Bandhu) visited Tulsa [B] Inspired to form Sangh and start Bhakti and Bhojan once a month [C] Pray together, Eat together and Stay together 1990 - [A] Tulsa Jain Sangh established 1991- [A] JAINA approved and welcomed Tulsa Jain Sangh as A Member [B] Three days Yoga camp on lake by Triputi Bandhu Jinchandraji and Kirtichandraji conducted The Yoga Camp [C] Donated $5000 to open free Ayurvedic Dispensary in Thithal, Gujarat, India 1992 [A] Sponsored Medical Camp in Tithal, Near Valsad, Gujarat, India 1993 - [A] Tulsa Jain Derasar opened with Murti Sthapana Ceremony Jinchandraji Muni & Vinod Shah of New York conducted ceremony [B] Donated $2500 for modern medicine for Thithal Dispensary 1994- [A] Donated $5,314 to the victims of 1993 Latur, Maharashtra Earthquake. The fund were raised by Tulsa Jain Sangh, Shri Lord Krishna Society & Hindu Society of Oklahoma & donated to Lions Club of Dhobi Talao, Bombay, India * * * * Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 TULSA JAIN SANGH INC. Established: 1990 A Non-profit Tax Exempt Religious Organization New Jain Center Address: 6922 South Utica Ave, Tulsa OK 74136 Mailing Address: P.O.Box 702624 Tulsa OK 74170-2624 President- Kanti Shah, V. P- Bharti Ajmera, Treasurer- Milesh Shah, Secretary- Surendra Doshi, Derashar coordinator- Joystna Mehta Phone: 918.369.3163 918.747.7677 918.745.0074 918.322.5450 Trustee - Chandrakant Shah, Trustee - Mridula Shah 918.491.6392 Our Achievements [B] Sponsored Free Medical Camp in Tithal with India Association of Toledo, Ohio, USA 1995 - [A] Awarded $1500 scholarship based on merit to Jain Students [B] Sangh went to 1 St Jain Youth Convention to Houston, Texas by bus 1996 [A] Jain Center with Jain Derasar (Jain Temple) movement started [B] Purchased the land at cost of $44,000 for Tulsa Jain Center 1997 [A] Tulsa Jain Youth hosted Regional Youth Convention [B] JAINA Charitable Trust approved $5000 grant to Tulsa Jain Sangh [C] STARTED PROCESS FOR JAIN CENTER BUILDING PERMIT 1998- [A] Donated $4151 with the help from Dr. Haresh & Mrs. Bharati Ajmera to Shri Kadiadra Kelavani Mandal for Computer Training Centre [B] Donated $1501 to Eye Hospital in Veerayatan, Rajigir, Bihar, India [C] Medical student Ami Doshi did her one month rotation at Veerayatan [D] Donated $1501 to 3RD Biennial YJA Convention in Houston, TX. 1999 - [A] Donated $3650 to Bhratiya Jain Sanghatana, Pune, India under the Program called "Sponsor A Child " for 1993 Latur, Maharashtra, India Earthquake homeless and destitute children at WREC. [B] Donated $2401 to Cyclone Relief Fund for India [C] Donated $4751 to R. M. Eye Hospital in Gujarat, India [D] South Regional Jain Youth Convention, Thanksgiving 1999 by the Youth group of Tulsa, OK and Dallas, TX 2000- [A] Donated $2500 to publish book in English by Acharya Mahapraja [B] Jain Society of North Texas / Dallas visits Tulsa & donates $501 2001- [A] Construction of Jain Center started. [B] Donated $25,000 thru Jaina to built school in Kutch, India. 2002- [A] Continue construction of Jain Center. 2003- [A] Finish Construction of Jain Center. 2004- [A] Pratishtha is scheduled on May 29, 30 & 31. Gurudev Chitrabhanuji, Ben Promodaji and Bhatarak Devendrakirtiji will bless pratishtha Mahotsav.

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 TULSA JAIN SANGH INC. President- Kanti Shah, V. P-Bharti Ajmera, Treasurer- Milesh Shah, Secretary-Surendra Doshi, Derashar coordinator-Joystna Mehta Phone: 918.369.3163 918.747.7677 9 18.745.0074 918.322.5450 918.491.6392 Trustee - Chandrakant Shah, Trustee - Mridula Shah Our members list Haresh & Bharti Ajmera 3219 S. Birmingham Av Tulsa OK 74105 918-747-7677 Biren & Grishma Ajmera 7439 S 95th E. Ave Tulsa Ok 74133 918-249-8176 Nilesh & Janis Bhow 7229 S. Sleepyhollow Dr Tulsa OK 74136 918-496-2920 Bela Dedhia 4213 Admiral Court Bartlesville OK 74006 918-914-1651 Ramesh & Hema Desai 4907 S. 76th E. Ave. Apt # B Tulsa OK 74145 918-955-9067 Surendra & Hansa Doshi 14452 S.Kendalwood Blvd Glenpool OK 74033 918-322-5450 Amar & Pritee Gada 6424 N. Warren Ave Oklahoma City OK 73116 405-843-7994 Kishor & Jyotsna Mehta 7826 S. Urbana Avenue Tulsa OK 74136 918-491-6392 Chintan Mehta 600 S.College Ave, Keplinger U308 Tulsa OK 74104 918-808-7980 Mahesh & Usha Mehta 5306 S. 67TH E PL Tulsa OK 74145 918-622-2757 Mahendra & Joyti Parekh 8216 E 75th St Tulsa OK 74133 918-459-0081 Bhagwandas & Rasila Patel 8945 E Admiral PI Tulsa OK 74115 918-832-7717 Ramanbhai Patel 12005 NI35 Service Rd, Economy Inn Oklahoma City OK 73131 405-478-9292 Ambalal & Pushpa Rawal 7628 S. Norwood Tulsa OK 74136 918-492-5453 Chandrakant & Malini Shah 2305 W.Knoxville Ave Broken Arrow OK 74012 918-258-4400 Dinesh & Parul Shah 13737 Plymouth Crossing Edmond OK 73013 405-478-7376 Dilip & Lina Shah 1510 S.139th E. Ave Tulsa OK 74108 918-234-1293 Kanti & Aruna Shah 8707 E.133rd Place South Bixby OK 74008 918-369-3163 Kirti & Niru Shah 8425 E.75th St Tulsa OK 74133 918-252-5825 Mukesh & Varsha Shah 9830 S. Oswego Avenue Tulsa OK 74137 918-299-2873 Milesh & Reshma Shah 4515 S. Birmingham Av Tulsa OK 74105 918-745-0074 Rajen & Pratibha Shah 3673 S.Lewis ave Tulsa OK 74105 918-712-9640 Rasik & Yogini Shah 10766 E 29th Place Tulsa OK 74129 918-627-8440 Jayesh & Sadhna Shah Days Inn, 8201 E.Skelly Dr. Tulsa OK 74129 918-665-6800 Subash & Jaya Shah 505 Manor Hill Dr Norman OK 73072 405-447-4362 Mahendra & Purnima Shah 4800 W.Covell Road Edmond OK 73003 405-340-7853 Shantibhai & Bhanuben Shah 1628 S. 130th E. Ave Tulsa OK 74108 918-438-7424 Kishor & Mridula Shah 7539 S. 96th E Ave Tulsa OK 74133 918-249-4455 Dilip & Dipika Shah 3118 S 131st St Apt # 214 Tulsa OK 74134 918-663-0556 Harshad Shah 1036 S. Garnett Rd Tulsa OK 74128 918-640-2980 Ketan & Reena Sheth 8810 S.73rd East Ave Tulsa OK 74133 918-250-3075 Pankaj & Avni Sheth 18708 Saddleriver Dr Edmond OK 73003 405-330-6969 Ashish & Sangeeta Sukhadia 1605 Cherokee Place Bartlesville OK 74003 918-336-5104

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Jain Education Interna Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 LOEL CAM DOVE CHEC 1848 rivate & Personal Men f

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intuttut 1TY Om Shree Mahaviraya Namah Tulsa Jain Sangh Cordially invites you, your family and friends to join us in the auspicious occasion of Pratishtha Mahotsav May 29,30,8 31, 2004 Mulnayak Shree Mahavir Swami Bhagwan Shree Parshvanath Swami Bhagwan Shree Rushabhdev Swami Bhagwan (Digamber) Navkar Mantra Shila, Padmavati Devi and Ghantakaran Mahavir Gokhla Shree Devendrakeerti Bhattaraka Sri Maha Swamiji, Shree Gurudev Chitrabhanuji and Promodaben will bless Pratishtha Mahotsav Vidhikar Shree Nareshbhai Shah and Narendrabhai Nandu and his group of musician will enhance festivities and will guide the rituals RSVP: Tulsa Jain Sangh Derashar Address: 6922 South Utica Ave, Tulsa, OK 74136 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 702624, Tulsa, OK 74170 Phone: 918-369-3163, 918-747-7677, 918-477-7167 ANO Remem Wwwerotary.org

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 INVITATION U TULSA JAIN SANGH PRATISHTA MAHOTSAV A MAY 29, 30, & 31, 2004 - sarva maMgala mAMgalyaM, sarva kalyANa kAraNam / 'pradhAnaM sarva dharmANAM, jainaM jayati zAsanam / you nama:siTANa namo ANi namA iTAvANa | May 29, 2004 Saturday Snatra Puja Asth Prakari Puja Nav Grah Puja Das Disal Puja Arti-Divo Shanti Kalash Uthapan Vidhi Discourses Bhavana / Gheeboli May 30, 2004 Sunday Procession Snatra puja 18 Abhishek Pratishtha Arti-Divo Shanti Kalash Discourse Cultural Program May 31, 2004 Monday Dwar Opening Snatra Puja Shanti Karam Puja Arti-Divo Shanti Kalash AAN Designed by Chintan Mehta INICHT

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 BEST WISHES TO TULSA JAIN SANGH FOR PRATISHTHA MAHOTSAV FROM: HARESH, BHARATI, BIJAL, VEERAL RAJESH and PURVI RAVI "Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile" Haresh K. Ajmera MD Internal Medicine & Gastroenterology 2325 South Harvard # 507 Tulsa, OK 74114 (918) 744-8115 Albert Einstein Kishor & Mridula Shah Comfort Suites 8338 East 61st St. South Tulsa, OK 74133 (918) 254-0088

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In Loving Memory Kantaben Harilal Shah (June 13, 1913 - December 1, 2000) Ba, you were there at the Bhumi Pujan to make the first dig into the derasar ground. That vision has continued over time and with the effort of many. Today, the derasar is ready, and we are looking for you. We feel your spirit here. You would be so proud of the derasar work that Dad (Chandrakant) and Dinesh Kaka did in your memory. We miss you today and always. Remembering Harilal & Kantaben Shah Family: Chandrakant & Malini Shah Family: Tulsa, OK Dinesh & Lina Shah Family: Tulsa, OK Shantilal & Bhanu Shah Family: Tulsa, OK Rajesh & Gita Shah Family: Tucson, AZ Mahendra & Jyothi Shah Family: Ellicott City, MD Sulu & Harshad Mehta Family: Phoenix, AZ Sushila Kanubhai Shah Family: Nadiad, India Dhiraj Arvindlal Kothari Family: Malad, India Jayant & Jyotshna Shah Family: Baroda, India Much love and remembrance from: Darshi & Niloy Shah ~ Bina & Tim Howard Jill Chandrakant Shah~~ Rakesh Chandrakant Shah Jivanni Niloy Shah - Zubin Niloy Shah

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EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES L to R: Milesh Shah-Treasurer, Mridula Shah-Trustee, Joystna Mehta-Derasar Coordinator, Bharti Ajmera - Vice president, Surendra Doshi-Secretary, Kanti Shah - President, Chandrakant Shah-Trustee. PRATISHTHA COMMITTEE Kanti Shah -Chair person Committee members - Bharti Ajmera, Milesh Shah, Surendra Doshi, Joystna Mehta, Chandrakant Shah & Mridula Shah INVITATION & SOUIVINER COMMITTEE Surendra Doshi-Co-Chair person Committee members - Bharti Ajmera, Milesh Shah, Chandrakant Shah, Chintan Mehta, Biren Ajmera, Janice Bhow. FOOD COMMITTEE Yogini Shah - Co-Chair person. Committee members - Reshma Shah, Jyotsna Mehta, Malini Shah, Hansa Doshi, Leena Shah, Pushpa Rawal, Pratibha Shah & Rasik Shah CULTURAL & DECORATION COMMITTEE Mridula Shah - Co-Chair person. Committee members - Chintan Mehta, Grishma Ajmera, Raj Shah, Aruna Shah, Mayur Shah, Bela Dedhia & Mahesh Mehta FUND RAISING COMMITTEE Ambalal Rawal - Co-Chair person Committee members - Biren Ajmera, Haresh Ajmera ACCOMODATION COMMITTEE Kishor Shah - Co-Chair person Committee members - Kishor Mehta PA/ PROJECTION & TENT COMMITTEE. Rajen Shah - Co-Chair person PUBLIC RELATION COMMITTEE Mahendra Parekh -Co-Chair person PAST PRESIDENTS Rasik Shah, Harsha Mehta, Mukesh Shah & Kanti Shah

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April 18, 2004 Shri Kantibhai Shah President Tulsa Jain Sangh 6922 South Utica Avenue Tulsa, OK 74136 Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Sadharmik Shri Kantibhai: Audi Rajni C Shah Rajni C Shah Ph.D. (Economics), Master in Law 15 Tennyson Drive Plainsboro, NJ 08536 I thank you for inviting me to participate at the auspicious occasion of Pratishtha Mahotsav of your derasar from May 29 through May 31, 2004. I sincerely appreciate your interest in my attendance. Unfortunately, my other commitments would prevent me to accept your invitation. Tel. Resi.: 609-716-0009 E-mail: Rajshah@hotmail.com It is always better to have a derasar in our community, as it stands as evidence of our faith, culture and vision. It is the only place where we can imbibe great values of our cultural and religious heritage. Our derasar is the source of spirit, source of strength; source of liberation; source of unity; source of elevation; source of future; source of prosperity; source of sharing and source of cultural security. May all these sources together keep Tulsa Jain Sangh vibrant and strong with contribution to members of your Sangh towards their spiritual eminence, enlightenment and edification? My congratulations to Tulsa Jain Sangi Best wishes for a memorable ceremony. Sincerely

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Interesting Definitions Doctor Boss Tears Atom Bomb Rumor Classic Dictionary Marriage A person who kills your ills by pills and later kills you with bills. Someone who is early when you are late and late when you are early. The hydraulic force by which masculine will power is defeated by feminine water power. An invention to end all inventions. News that travels more than speed of sound. A book which people praise, but do not read. The only place where "divorce" comes before marriage. It's an agreement in which a man loses his bachelor's degree and woman gains here master's. A banker provided by nature. One who shakes your hand before election and your confidence later. A curve that can set a lot of things straight. A person who tells you to go to hell in such a way that you actually look forward to the trip. A sign to make others believe that you know more than you actually do. Individuals who can do nothing individually, sit to decide that nothing can be done together. I am not miles away, just an e-mail away. Father Politician Smile Diplomat Etc. Committee IT Professional BY: Rajnibhai C. Shah Jain Education Intemational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 JAIN SOCIETY OF HOUSTON, INC. 3905 Arc Street, Houston, Texas (off Westpark, between Fondren & S. Gessner) Mailing Address: P.O. Box 772313, Houston, Texas 77215-2313 Telephone: (713)-789-2338 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: March 29, 2004 Shanti Gala President (281) 398-7402 Prabodh Mehta Vice President (281) 820-9325 TULSA JAIN SANGH INC. P.O.Box 702624 Tulsa OK 74170-2624 Dilip Kapasi Secretary (281) 980-4567 Dear Kantibhai, Jai Jinendra. Bhavar Purohit Jt. Secretary (713) 672-8822 Our heartiest congratulations on behalf of Jain Society of Houston on your Pratistha Mahotsava. Praveen Jain Treasurer (281) 313-3808 Rajiv Shah Jt. Treasurer (281) 495-4138 It was great pleasure to receive your letter regarding the new Derasar and celebrations for the Pratistha Mahotsava. We have circulated your heartiest invitation to our members to participate in your Pratistha Mahotsava. Dushyant Shah Director (281) 568-3623 Nita Shah Director (281) 482-7560 Our Board of Trustees and Executive Committee have passed a resolution to contribute $5,000.00 on behalf of Jain Society of Houston from DEVDRAVYA to use strictly inside your Derasar. Please accept this little momento with our best wishes. TRUSTEES: Riddhi Desai Chief Trustee (281) 242-4146 Rajeev Daga Trustee (281) 980-2611 We have also circulated the information regarding your souvenir to our members. We wish that the Pratistha Mahotsava is a great success. Mukesh Turakhia Trustee (281) 242-8099 Sincerely, iesas Ragini Lakhia Trustee (281) 980-3409 Riddhi Desai Chief Trustee Jitendra R Shah Trustee (281) 550-3155 Parimal Desai Trustee (281) 859-3661 Shanti Gala President Jain Education Intemational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Best wishes namo arihaMtArAM namo siAdAe namo pAyariyAe namo upajamAyAevaM namo loesavyasAhae emo paMdhanamukkAro. sdhypaayppshaasaayo| maMgalA ca savyesi paDhama havaI mNglN| parasparopaNo avAnA Tulsa Jain Sangh ons the Auspicious Pratishtha Mahotsava from SOCIET KE NOR RTA 538 Apollo Road, Richardson, TX 75081 (972)470-0606 in Education International

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AIR FRANCE Jaya Jasp Gavel SINGAPORE AIRLINES Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 "Celebrating over 25 years" EUROPE AFRICA INDIA ASIA LATIN AMERICA SOUTH PACIFIC "Landmark in Detroit" travel & tours Phone: Fax: 23B-AIR INDIA Lufthansa ahov PHONE: 1-877-FLY-JAYA DOMESTIC INTERNATIONAL CRUISES TOURS HOTELS CAR RENTALS GROUPS lias 26500 NORTHWESTERN HIGHWAY, SUITE 261 SOUTHFIELD, MI 48076 OUR FAX: 248-372-4810 DETROIT NEW YORK CHICAGO WASHINGTON DC LOS ANGELES INDIA OFFICES Mumbai 022-651-0400 022-643-3440 nator Center Alitalia www.jayatravel.com Chennai 044-851-4219 044-855-5778 ede NORTHWEST KLM Swiss Hyderabad 040-678-5222 040-678-6488 www.inelibrary

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 THE ETERNAL LAW Thus say all the Lords and Conquerors, whether past, present, or to come. Thus they speak, thus they declare, thus they proclaim in unison: all things breathing, all things existing, all things living, all beings whatever, should not be slain nor treated with violence, nor insulted, nor tortured, nor driven away. This is the pure, unchanging, Eternal Law, which the wise ones, who understand this world, have declared: among the earnest and the non-earnest, among the loyal and the notloyal, among the cruel and the not-cruel, among those who are weak and those who are not, among those who delight in worldly ties and those who do not: that is the Truth, that is reality, that is proclaimed in this system. Having adopted this Law, one should never hide or forsake it. Correctly understanding this Law, one should be neutral to what one perceives, and not seek worldly ends... what is declared here has been seen, heard, acknowledged, and understood. Those who give way, and indulge in pleasure, are born over and over again. Recognize that the careless are without any hope of Liberation. But be vigilant day and night, strive steadfastly always with ready vision, and you, in the end, will conquer. Acharanga Sutra 1:4:1 Jain Education Intemational

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Zi QUAL HOUSING ENDER ARVEST Proud to Assist by Providing Permanent Financing for the Tulsa Jain Sangh Center. ducation International Open 8 to 8 (918) 631-1000 SeveraMeetgiert var bno offfni eh mer eaw and noild to meldme MEMBER FDIC

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 BHAGAWAN HISTORY Mahavira Tirthankara 24: Mahavira Mahavira the last Tirthankara, is a fully historical person, the senior contemporary of the Buddha. As per records, he first entered the womb of a Brahmin lady Devananda, wife of Rishabhadatta who lived in Magadha. But a Tirthankara could not remain in the womb of an inferior being which a Brahmin was by dint of his being a professional seeker of gifts and donations. So Indra before long arranged the transfer of the embryo to the womb of a Kshatriya queen Trisala, wife of Siddhartha who was in the Ikshvaku line and who ruled at Kshatriyakunda. The embryo of a girl that Trisala was carrying was placed in the womb of the Brahmin lady. When in her sleep Devananda saw the fourteen dreamobjects moving out of her mouth, she cried out but was helpless. Mahavira was born of Trisala on the 15th day in the second half of Chaitra with the emblem of a lion and was named Vardhamana because of the growing affluence of the state treasury. He was married to princess Yasodhara and had a daughter by her named Priyadarsana. He lost his parents by 28 and renounced the world by 30 with the permission of his elder brother. He broke his fast by accepting offering from a Brahmin named Vahula. He wandered for 12 years, 6 months and 15 days and then settled on the bank of the Rajuvaluka where he attained the knowledge of the free. He lived a full life of 72 years visiting many a place all over the country initiating and enlightening the living beings. He organised the orders, named 11 ganadharas and predicted the disappearance of the knowledge of the free after Jambusvami who would be a disciple of Sudharmasvami, one of Mahavira's own ganadharas. The curtain of his life was at last drawn at Pawapuri (in Bihar) on the 15th, day of the dark half of Kartika. On the occasion of passing out of the beaconlight, which was the light of knowledge, nine Malla and nine Lichchhavi kings who were present in the throng burnt earthen lamps to prevent total darkness from enveloping the world. The day is still commemorated by all the Indians irrespective of religion by the burning of lamps and is named Dipavali or the festival of lights. "Upon reading the doctrines of Jainism, I wonder how I could ever have eaten meat" (Dr. Wagnus Erons)

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C Lord Parshvnath Lord Mahavir Lord Rushabhdev

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pragaTa prabhAvaka zAsana rakSaka zrI ghaMTAkarNa mahAvIra deva (mahuDI tIrtha). aref"paNe nabha o DrIM aikalI" zrI padmAvatI detre namaH Jain Education Interational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 ASHOK KACHE, M.D. Physiatrists Specializing in PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION, ELCTRODIAGNOSIS OF NERVE AND MUSCULAR DISORDERS BOARD CERTIFIED Management of 1) REHABILITATION OF STROKES, SPINAL CORD INJURIES, HEAD TRAUMA, AMPUTEES AND ARTHRITIS 2) MUSKULO-SKELETAL INJURIES - BACK AND NECJ PROBLEMS. OFFICE: 1145 South Utica, Suite 403 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74104-4007 Telephone: (918) 584-3548 OFFICE HOURS: By Appointment

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Jai Jinendra Heartiest Congratulations To Tulsa Jain Sangh On The Occasion Of Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Best Compliments From: Jain Center Of Greater St. Louis Jain Education Intemational www.jainelibrar.org

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 BHAGAWAN HISTORY Parshvanath Tirthankara 23: Parsvanatha Parsva was born of king Asvasena of Varanasi and queen Bamadevi on the 10th day in the first half of Pausha with a snake as his emblem. On the attainment of his youth, he was married to princess Prabhavati. So goes the story about his marriage : But Kamatha's passion would take no bridle when he saw his younger brother approaching. He hurled a heavy stone at him which killed Marubhuti on the spot. This was all in the previous birth but the undercurrent of animosity was not yet dead. Parsva came to see the monk Katha and challenged if he was really practising religion. He told him that one of the burning logs in front of him contained a pair of snakes which were getting roasted for want of an outlet and ordained that ahimsa was the real way. But Katha would not agree that the snakes were being roasted. Then at Parsva's order, his men took the log out and pierced it when the snakes already half-roasted were released from inside. Parsva uttered namokara to the dying serpents. The princess Prabhavati of Kusasthala had heard of the beauty and youth of the prince Parsva and in her mind she had courted him to be her husband. When the Yavana king of Kalinga heard of the princess' beauty, he sought her hand and laid seize of her father's city. Prasenajita, the ruler of the small state of Kusasthala, was no match for the ruler of Kalinga. So he sought the aid of the king of Varanasi. When the king was preparing to march in aid, Parsva induced his father to allow him to lead the army of liberation. The king reluctantly agreed. On reaching Kusasthala, Parsva demanded that the king of Kalinga should either withdraw or face the consequences. The encounter ended in an withdrawal by the Yavana king who was prevailed upon by his own counselors. The king then wanted to offer the princess to Parsva which he was not ready to accept. He had come to save the city and not to take a wife. Prasenajita then brought his daughter to Varanasi where the marriage was celebrated with due pomp. On the completion of his career as a prince, Parsva was initiated into monkhood in the Asramapada park and broke his fast by accepting offering from a lay man Dhanya. Thereafter he wandered for 84 days before he settled down again in the park of his initiation to attain later the knowledge of the free. During his penances he was disturbed by the soul of Kamatha who had now become a god in heaven and hurled a heavy downpour to drown him but Parsva was protected by the souls of the snakes who too were now lodged in heaven as gods. But it was all immaterial for a Jina. Parsva organised the orders, named 10 ganadharas and was claimed by Sammeta Sikhara at the time of his liberation. One day Parsva saw people carrying sweets to the outskirts of the city. On enquiry he came to know that a monk named Katha was practising hard penance there. Katha's body sheltered the same soul that was once known as Kamatha. Kamatha and Marubhuti (now Parsva) were then brothers. Marubhuti was pious but Kamatha was crafty and had carried away his brother's wife. When Marubhuti complained to the king, Kamatha who was the officer of high rank under him was dismissed and turned out of the city. But Marubhuti became penetent and went to the king to seek forgiveness for his brother but this was rightly refused. Then Marubhuti approached his brother to seek forgiveness of him. "Jainism's history is ancient, authentic, and rich in value and tradition. If I was to be born again, I would choose to be a Jain" (John Jeffery)

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 With Blessings From The Heart & Best Wishes To Tulsa Jain Sangh For A Successful & Grand Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 From: Kantaben, Milesh, Reshma Kavisha, Hirak Shah

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 BHAGAWAN HISTORY Rushubdeva Tirthankara 1: Rishabhadeva (Adinatha) The first tirthankara of the Jainas, Rishabha, is not only the founder of the Jaina four-fold order, but is also the originator of the social organization, the first lord of the earth and also the first to renounce the world to embrace and indicate the spiritual path. In the Jaina view, the advent of the first tirthankara became necessary in that phase of the time-cycle when lapses had just started appearing on the part of human beings and when due to the growing barrenness of the subsistence trees (kalpabrikshas), food was becoming more difficult to get. So some leader of men was necessary to establish order and to impart training in the art of living. Most illustrious was the reign of the first monarch. who looked on his people as his children, He took ministers to assist him in the administration of the state-craft; he organised the police, the army, the cavalry and the elephant corps; he built chariots and appointed commanders; he introduced the art of raising good breed of camels, Cows, buffaloes, bulls and mules. He taught men to cultivate food, to make fire and use it in cooking. He taught them how to make vessels and built houses for a comfortable living. He trained people as barbers to give hair-cut, as porters to produce utensils, as painters, masons and weavers. In fact, these were the first artisan classes of the human society. But above all, he raised a huge progeny of hundred boys and two girls in order to inculcate a love of procreation among human beings. He established seventy-two arts and crafts and evolved a script and transmitted them to posterity through his own children. Some of the early inscriptions of Indian history have made use of this script. He organised the society into fourfold order, viz., ugra who were city dads, bhoga who were ministers, rajanya who were members of the king's household and kshatri who comprised the rest. From him also the people learned private ownership of property- to call a thing to be one's own. We need not go into the details of the previous birth experiences of Rishabha nor into his ancestry which consisted of a line of twins who later lived as man and wife. His own parents were patriarch (kulakara) Nabhi and his consort Marudevi. His conception and birth were duly celebrated by the celestial beings. He was born on the eighth day of the dark half of Chaitra. As was the natural order of the time, along with him was born his sister and would be consort Sumangala. The boy was named Rishabha. since he bore the mark of a bull on his thigh and his mother too saw a bull in her first dream. When he was one year old, seated on the laps of his father, he received a piece of sugarcane (ikshu) as a homage from Indra, the leader of gods, by virtue of which the line took the name as Ikshvaku. At the ripe age he was married to his partner-at-birth Sumangala, and also another Sunanda who, so goes the story, had lost her partner-at-birth in an accident and was recovered weeping from the wilderness. In fact, the marriage between Rishabha and Sunanda was the first ceremonial marriage outside a partner-at-birth and, it appears, was so ordained in order to introduce the ceremonial. Prior to this, twins, initially brother and sister, used to live as man and wife on the attainment of youth without any social ceremony. Then Rishabha, in deference to the wishes of his people, ascended the throne as the first monarch, his ancestors being all patriarchs by consent, without full royal authority. At the divine order, a city was then constructed to be his capital. Initially called Vineeta because of the obeisance of the people to their first lord, the city later became famous as Ayodhya. With all these things accomplished, his mission as a monarch was now nearing its completion. At right moment he had realisation of this. He then decided to renounce the world and spend a year in making gifts out of riches provided by the gods. He renounced his kingdom in favor of his eldest son Bharata and gave suitable territories to others. Then started his mission as a spiritual man and spiritual leader. Needless to add, the moment of his renunciation was availed of by many others, kings as well a lay people, who followed in the footsteps of the great leader. Followed by a large retinue of monks, Rishabha now took to a wandering career, sleepless and without food and drink. The lay people did not know how to make an offer of food and drink to a monk. The monks that were following him were all exhausted. Utterly starved and breathless, they broke away from him, took fruits and roots from a forest and drank the nacterine water from the Ganga, But the lord was unpertubed and thus the year rolled off. "Truth comes only from being alone, without attachments and karmic matter of any kind" (Author Unknown) Jain Education Interational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 BEST WISHES TO TULSA JAIN SANGH FOR PRATISHTHA MAHOTSAV FROM: HARESH, BHARATI, BIJAL, VEERAL RAJESH and PURVI RAVI "Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile" Albert Einstein Haresh K. Ajmera MD Internal Medicine & Gasenterology 2325 South Harvard # 507 Tulsa, OK 74114 (918) 744-8115 Kishore & Mridula Shah Comfort Suites 8338 East 61st St. South Tulsa, OK 74133 (918) 254-0088

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 He was now at Hastinapura and he broke his fast here with cane juice offered by his own grandson Sreyansa Kumara who was resigning here. For, at the very sight of the Lord the prince could know what type of food was acceptable to a monk and the mode of offer and accordingly he made the offer which was accepted. This event took place on the third day in the second half of Vaisakha when the gods arranged a non-ending shower of gems to celebrate the occasion which henceforth became known as the akshaya-tritiya day. This day is held auspicious by all Indians- Jaina as well as Hindu. After the lord's departure, Sreyansa Kumara erected a holy altar at the place where the Lord had broken his fast and engaged himself to worship it. Bharata new took his seat in the congregation and listened to the Lord's discourses. Several hundred sons and grandsons of Bharata renounced the world to join the holy order. Brahmi along with many other ladies of the royal household was initiated into nunhood. But Sundari was prevented by her brother, the king; for, she was needed to accept the vow of a sravika, as the king himself accepted the vow of a sravaka. It was in this way that the four segments of the Jaina spiritual order, monks, nuns, lay disciples female, were provided at the first congregation held by the Lord. These four segments characterise the Jaina spiritual order to this day. Once, in the course of his wanderings, the Lord reached the kingdom of Bahuvali. He halted in the park outside the city of Taxila. The king having received the news of the Lord's arrival gave orders for a full decoration of the town and an elaborate reception. All this, however, took time and when at last the king reached the park, the Lord had already departed. This was highly distressing and the king was penitent. The ministers prevalled upon him to have a darsana of the Lord's holy footprints and to feel himself to be in the presence of the Lord. Bahuvali did accordingly. Even the order of ganadharas (spiritual stalwarts who were named leaders of different ganas or church-segments under the Lord) was named by the Lord. This order was headed by one of Bharata's sons. He gave the fundamentals of the Jaina religion - the sutras, sutrarthas, dravyas, gunas, paryayas and nayas. Thus, the Lord established the tirtha and equipped it with complete tenets, because of which he became the First Tirthankara. When Rishabha was at the height of spiritual power, Bharata, by dint of his world conquest, was at the acme of his temporal power. A chakra-ratna was born in his armoury. With the help of this he conquered the six segments of the land and became a chakravarti monarch. So goes the tradition, that the country took its name as Bharata-varsha. The Lord's wanderings continued. He passed speechless through the lands of the non-pure (mlechchlas and yavanas) and impressed him through his austerities. In this way, many years passed by and he reached the Sakatakmukha park which was to the north of Purimatala. In this park, he practiced various austerities, got rid of karmabondage that envelops right knowledge and right vision and that is obstructive of spiritual ascent, and thus reached a higher stature. At this stage, he attained the knowledge of the free and the occasion was duly celebrated by the gods. With his earthly mission nearing completion, the Lord gave up his mortal frame through fasting. His final moment was spent on the Ashtapada mountain (Mount Kailasa). This was an occasion of great sorrow for all the categories of beings, a great event for the universe, the exit of tirthankara. The Lord had left behind a huge family of spiritual stalwarts who were to uphold the Lord's path on the earth and propagate it to generations yet to be bom. The life of Rishabha as recorded in the Jaina scriptures is corroborated by the Bhagavata wherein he has been acknowledged as an incamation of Vishnu. Even the Rig Veda contains a high praise about him as follows: The news of the Lord attaining omniscience was conveyed to king Bharata who was at this moment on a visit to his grand-mother Marudevi, Rishabha's own mother, who had become blind through sorrow after her son's departure. The king in the company of his grand-ma, and the rest from the royal household, set out for the congregation park where preparations for one were in vision and witnesses the illustrious assemblage with its pomp and grandeur. By another miracle she herself acquired the knowledge of the free, discarded her mortal frame right on the elephant's back and became the first to enter the domain of the siddhas in the current decision. Her body was duly consecrated to the Ocean of Milk by the gods themselves. Rishabham masamananam sapatnanam bisasahim Hantaram satrunam kridhi biralam gopitam gabam. -Rig veda, X. 12.166 (Oh Divinity! Do thou produce amongst us, of high descent, a great god, like Rishabha, who by becoming an arhan, which is the epithet of the first World Teacher, may become the destroyer of enemies.) "The truth is out there somewhere; it is man's ultimate destiny to go look for it" (Author Unknown)

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Best Wishes and Compliments To Tulsa Jain Sangh for Pratishtha Mahotsava From * Savita Doshi * Rasik and Yogini Shah * Hasmukh, Usha, Rajeev and Tejal Mehta * Sacheen, Sangini, Sonali, Shalin and Samir Mehta * Tushar, Julie, and Ajay Shah * 1 ** Sacheen H. Mehta, MD,PA Orthopaedic Surgery Board-Certified Sports Medicine Fellowship-Trained Visit our new office at 1120 W. Campbell Road in Richardson, Texas opening July 2004 (214) 575-BONE (2663) 330 Municipal Drive, Suite #102 Richardson, Texas 75080 www.orthodoc.aaos.org/sportsmedicine Now Serving Richardson Regional & Medical Center of Plano ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY & SPORTS MEDICINE

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 YAKSHAS & YAKSHINIES Padmavati Devi She is the dedicated deity of Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Tirthankara. Her color is golden and her vehicle is the snake with a cock's head. She has four arms, and in her her two right hands, she holds a lotus and a rosary. The two left hands hold a fruit and a rein. Ghantakarna Veer This deity is worshipped for protection and for driving away the evil influence created by lower types of negative energy. His arrow indicates penetration of evil forces. The bow gives forceful momentum to the arrow. His symbol is the bell that resounds to create auspicious sounds in the atmosphere. Sometimes people who are not aware of the facts call him by mistake Ghantakama Mahavira, which creates confusion between Lord Mahavira and Ghantakama Veer. He is not connected to Lord Mahavir in any way. Abode of the - Liberated Souls Right Faith Right Conduct Right Knowledge Three Paths Heaven Human Four Destinies A) Animal Hell Non Violence - Mutual Assistance Of All Beings - SO -- Mutual Assistance Of All Beings "I like the doctrines of Jainism greatly. If I were to be reborns I wish to be reborn as a Jain EdJainternational (George Bernard Shaw)

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 PRATISHTHA MAHOTSAV The Great Occasion The Dashavalkalika Sutra is one of the few prominent Jain Scriptures. It was composed by Shayambhavaswami, who, according to Shwetambar tradition, was the 4th successor to Lord Mahavir and is considered 2nd Shrutkewali. He was born a Brahmin. After meeting Prabhavaswami, the first Shrutkewali, he adopted the Jain faith and became his pupil. At the time of his renunciation, his wife was pregnant. She gave birth to a son who they named Manak. Early in his life, the boy became his father's pupil. Being aware of Manak's short life, Shayambhavaswami decided to compose for his benefit this Sutra that covers the entire code of conduct for monks. Though it was meant for monks, its precepts are of equal importance to laymen as well. All other Tirthankaras also observed the same trio before they became Arihantas. We worship them as they have taught us the right way of gaining true and abiding happiness. Arihantas are worshipped so we can be imbibed with their ideal attributes. But they have been liberated, and are not available to us in physical form. They are unembodied souls and do not have any shape or form. They are therefore known as Niranjan and Nirakarar, meaning crystal like pure and shapeless. How can we possibly worship such formless, shapeless and intangible entities? The book mentions nonviolence, restraint, and austerity as the basis of religion. It was the time when people believed in existence of gods and thought that they could be propitiated by animal sacrifices etc. Jainism however considers nonviolence as the anchor of religion. In this verse, Shayambhavaswami therefore emphasizes how much the gods appreciate the attributes of nonviolence, restraint, and austerities. It is hard to conceive intangible aspects. We happen to have shape and form and are accustomed to visualize everything in some form. We therefore need some physical shape for worshipping too. Very few people can attain the state that would enable them to visualize intangibles. Such people do not need any physical image for worship and can rightfully claim to be non-idolators. Most of the people however need tangible objects for worship. Major sects of Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism therefore endorse Idol worship. Thus, we build temples in which we install idols of higher beings. Such idols must be prepared of stone, metal, wood or any other lifeless material, materials that are intrinsically unsuitable to represent unembodied, liberated souls. In our Jain temples, we install idols that represent the embodied Arihanta state of Tirthankaras. Such installation is known as Pratishtha. It is a sacred ceremony and has to be undertaken in serenity, because we intend to incorporate in the idols, the attributes of Arihantas. These three aspects are the pillars of Jainism. The term 'Nonviolence' has negative derivation, but it has positive connotations. It denotes affection and compassionate feeling for every living being. It can be easily practiced, if one tries to understand true nature of soul. He can then realize that every living being has soul that has identical attributes. He would therefore respect the inviolability of all souls and would refrain from hurting any living being. Compassion would be automatically flowing from his heart. As such, he would not only be willing to forego his own pleasures and conveniences, but would also be ready to face hardships for the sake of others. This forbearance, which amounts to restraint and willingness to undergo hardships, is austerity. Thus restraint and austerity are essential components of nonviolence. This trio functions for the benefit of all. Its observance can therefore be considered essential and inevitable for every one. All of the Tirthankaras were born in respectable families and were blessed with all the material comforts and amenities. They realized that all worldly comforts and relations are ephemeral and unendurable. Such transitory aspects cannot provide everlasting happiness. The Lords therefore gave up all possessions for the sake of spiritual pursuit. By rigorously pursuing detachment, they got rid of all craving and aversion. Eventually they got shorn of all defiling Karmas that obscure or obstruct the manifestation of true qualities of soul. Thereby they could attain the state of omniscience and gained experience of infinite knowledge, perception, vigor, and happiness that are inherent within the soul. Thus detachment and possessionlessness are the main attributes of Arihantas. While preparing their idols we carve them unclad in token of their possessionless state. We should keep this trio in mind while undertaking any activity. Lord Mahavir had rigorously observed this during 12 years of spiritual pursuit, prior to the attainment of omniscience. "He, who himself hurty creatures, or gety them hurt by others, augmenty the world's Jain Educhostility towards himself (Lord Mahavira)

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 In India the Shwetambaras and Digambaras happen to have different traditions for their idols and temples. But in America, Jains of all denominations have been putting their heads together and organizing under one umbrella. This is not without reason. Despite the outward differences, Jains of all the sects subscribe to the same common principles in all major areas, whether they be in the realm of six Dravyas, nature of soul, its state under the bondage of Karma and its potentiality for liberation, eight types of Karmas, nine fundamentals, 12 categories of austerities and of restraint, Syadvad etc.. Similarly they hold identical beliefs about the nature of universe, four states of life, time cycle, names of 24 Tirthankaras five Kalyanakas etc. Differences that exist are at the surface and are more or less at the superficial level. Thus, it is time that all the Jains here cast aside outward differences and converge on the major issues. Ideally, this should cover the issue of worshipable idol as well. In our temple, we are therefore going to have separate idols as per Shwetambara and Digambara traditions. This reflects tolerance of sect views, and is in conformity with the theory of syadvad. The Idols have been prepared at Jaipur. Installing the Shwetambar and Digambar idols side by side also is a sign of progress towards unity. That will provide exposure of Shwetambar traditions to Digambara and Digambar traditions to Shwetambar and will give them opportunity to better understand each other. This, too, is not a small gain. Installation ceremony is a great occasion for all of us. The importance of this occasion cannot be overestimated. Our tradition considers such an installation as wholesome enough to lead to the state of Tirthankara, because it amounts to raising of Tirth. Installation here is specially important because we are raising a Tirth on foreign soil. In fact, people from far and wide have already started visiting our Center. There is therefore hardly any exaggeration to state that after the installation, our Center is going to be a place of pilgrimage. It is now incumbent upon all of us to celebrate this occasion appropriately and with utmost enthusiasm. We therefore implore all the Jains and other well wishers to treat this occasion as their own and contribute their physical, mental and economic capabilities to the extent befitting the ceremony. "A true friend is he who dispenses a dose of bitter advice solely to see our healthy success" (Swami Pradipananda) 82

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 MESSAGE OF BHAGAWAN MAHAVIR After attaining 'Kaivalya' or omniscience through great penance and meditation, Bhagwan Mahavir,in His infinite compassion, relayed his vision of reality for all those who sought the path of enlightenment. It is a vision that encompasses all things living and nonliving and transcends the boundries of time and place. 1 Bhagwan Mahavir revealed to us that our existence is much more beyond this mortal body. The force that powers this ephemeral body is ageless and eternal. He identified this force as 'Atman' or the soul. He showed us the way to unshackle the full potential of the 'Atman' from the bondage of mundane passions through the threefold path of right cognition, right knowledge and right conduct. At the pinnacle of enlightenment on this path, the 'Atman' achieves a state of ultimate bliss and freedom from the cycle of incarnation. He explored the realm of mind and matter in a most unique fashion. He propounded that reality is not singular but multifaceted; seemingly paradoxical but essentially unified. This unique vision is 'Anekant'. 'Anekant' guides us to the fact that all differences arise out of limitation of our perception.In accepting this limitation we learn to forgive rather than to fight, to synthesise rather than to segregate and thereby achieve understanding and harmony. He said that all things living aspired life and happiness just the way we did. Therefore, we should not inflict pain upon, or kill any living being. His guidance as to our relationship with our fellow living beings and the world at large shows that His vision envelops every aspect of human life. He said that our relationship with those better placed than us should be that of delight at their happiness, that with our colleagues should be that of friendlines,that with our inferiors and those in misery should be one of compassion, and with the cruel and incorrigible it should be one of indifference. In a world torn apart by war and strife, Bhagwan Mahavir's message of love, compassion and nonviolence has eternal and irreplaceable value. "A life in which we do no good, act no good, and think no good, is no good" (Dr. S.W. Johanson)ary.org

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 TEMPLE WORSHIP Worship is of two kinds. It can be worship in thepresence of an image or alternative worship of the God without any image. The latter is regarded as the higher form of worship, but for most people it is valuable to have a physical representation of the God before their eyes. The mind and spirit are immediately directed to the object of worship instead of wandering loosely around. Some deem this as mere idolatry, but that is to mistake the whole nature of worship of a holy image. The slump of stone is not itself God but is the sacred symbol of God. The Tirthankara or Siddha is far beyond our reach, but, in a way difficult to explain in words, the Tirthankara is present in the holy image for the worship of the faithful. The focal point of the temple is the image of God and the temple is a place for the worship of God. Many ancient writings, and the modern one, too, describe the rituals of worship. The rituals put order and structure into worship, again focusing the devotion of the faithful. The beauty of the words and music, along with the beauty of the image and its setting, inspire in the devotee the beauty of religious faith and worship. Hence, worship should be performed with due and proper ceremony, with proper preparation and full understanding. The first requirement for devotion in the temples is purity. This is a rather vague word. What this means is that the actual physical body and its clothes must be clean. One should bathe before worship, and it is right to keep special clothes, simple and clean a dhoti and scarf are ideal for a man, simple clothing for a woman. This is the exterior aspect of inner purity bad, coarse, irrelevant thoughts should be kept away. the surroundings of the image should be kept clean and swept. the objects used in worship and offered before the Gods should be pure, fresh, and good. purchased with money honestly earned. Lastly, the ceremonies of worship should not be distracted or interrupted by worldly affairs or cares. The process of formal worship may be summed up in ten groups of triple actions or considerations. First there is the triple utterance of the word nisihi. It symbolizes the putting aside of former activities. On entering the temple, one leaves former activities outside; upon approaching the inner shrine, even the activities associated with the outer temple are left behind. Thirdly, the word marks the completion of the physical acts of worship before the abstract worship or chaitya vandan begins. Second comes the triple circumambulation of the image from right to left. Third is the reverence to the image with folded hands and the words 'Namo Jainism,' with a deep bow and with complete obeisance. Then, as the fourth action, comes the three kinds of puja, anga puja with water, sandalwood paste, and flowers, agra puja with incense, lights, the swastika symbol in rice grains. with sweets and with fruit, and bhava puja, or chaitya vandan, worship with songs and prayer which follows the others. Then the fifth trio consists of contemplation during the puja on three stages of the Tirthankara's life: Childhood, Kingship, and the Ascetic life. Restraining the gaze from wandering in any of the three directions away from the Jina image, and gently brushing tiny creatures to safety in threefold action, constitute the sixth and seventh actions. Eigthly, during the prayers and hymns of chaitya vandan, three things should be borne in mind, to enunciate them clearly rather than rushing over them, whilst following the meaning with understanding, and keeping gaze and contemplation on the image. Three mudras, positions of the hands, are appropriate during the chaitya vandan. Firstly, the ten fingers folded in lotus form, secondly, the hands hanging loosely while standing, and then the hands brought together, hollow, against the forehead. The tenth point for attention is that the chaitya vandan is followed with triple concentration of mind, voice, and action. It can be seen that the ordered tenfold sequence leads worshippers through from entrance to the temple to reverence of the image, then in to ritual acts and offerings, and lastly into the prayers and hymns and to the conclusion of worship. Jain rituals can be very beautiful and very moving. The words and actions become familiar to the devotees, so that the whole process flows gracefully from one stage to the next. It is necessary to keep the mind fixed on the object and purpose so that the familiar does not degenerate into the mindless repetition of sterile and token obeisance. Beyond a certain stage, the Jain will find that he needs fewer and fewer external aids to devotion, and worship will reach that higher level where God is present in abstraction, not in physical image. "It is better to keep a friend from falling rather than helping up him after he falls" (Author Unknown).

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 May the message of peace through Non-violence prevail Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to Tulsa Jain Sangh On the occasion of Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Of Shri Bhagwan Mahavirswami "Samyag, Darsana, Jnana, Charitrani, Moksamargah". The enlightened world-view, enlightened knowledge and enlightened conduct are the path to liberation. Tatvartha Sutra 1.1 Acharya Umasvami Best Compliments From: Chandrakant Udani, M.D. Kunjlata Udani Paras Udani, D.O. Parin Udani

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 The Great Soul of Ahimsa By Shree Chitrabhanu In TIMES OF INDIA, The Speaking Tree Anekantavada and The Cycle of Opposites Both violence and non-violence starts by degrees. The beginnings are subtle and evolve quietly into grand acts of conflict or compassion. When Nelson Mandela was released, he was told by some to get even for the monumental wrong that was done to him. However, he refused to be swayed by hatred. He said he had already been a physical prisoner of his opponents for so long and wished not to live the rest of his life as their emotional captive. Mandela understood that to project anger outwards, one must burn internally and that to commit violence upon others, one must first turn violent upon the self. Burning the holder before its enemy, the spark of anger can consume the source before its adversary. Today, if we want to learn to conquer our baser emotions, we need to learn from the examples of those who have forged their choices within the heat of life's most tempestuous battles - people such as Mandela, Gandhiji and Martin Luther King. The idea of Ahimsa is an emancipatory one yet not a concept alone. It begins as a feeling and can grow into an encompassing life approach. The idea morphs into a feeling. It is this feeling that transforms others around us. Vardhman Mahavir was an example of such self-realization. He inspired others in an exemplary fashion, imparting wisdom without preaching. The speaking tree speaks without speech! It makes true understanding possible. It has been said that an angry person opens the mouth and closes his eyes. It is our mind that needs control. Wars they say begin in the minds of men. It is there that peace must be won. Our sages understood this simple truth ages back. Mahavira, one of the Tithankaras, practiced the truth of Ahimsa, peace and non-violence without setting out to preach to the world. Mahavira understood the roots of violence in the human psyche. His warning, therefore, was against absolutism and dogmatism. His stress on Anekantvada was a plea for the recognition of the multi-faceted nature of reality. The perception of reality depends on the time, place, nature and state of the viewer. Absolute truth cannot result from any Jain Education Intemational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 particular viewpoint alone. Absolutism for him was an act of mental violence. Relativize the absolute, he pleaded. He wanted respect for different belief systems. Anekantvada is a vision within which the paradox of all opposites are integrated. If we look at things with balance, we will know that opposites are complementary to each other. Without opposites there is no growth and awareness. When we are aware of the cycle of opposites, we don't see them as opposites. We see them as compatible for growth, allowing us to approach the world openly. Mahavira spoke against the mindless acquisitive impulse, remarking how this sets up the system of violence within our lives. He was not impractical or unrealistic. He wanted us to grow beyond the selflimiting principle of greed and help us transcend our linearization. It is only the transcendence of the ego that makes for a larger sympathy, an identification with a larger principle. Mahavir's compassion extended beyond humanity, to all forms of life. His standpoint makes him a kindred spirit to contemporary environmentalists and animal conservationists. Mahavira speaks to us in the present. It is not by balance of terror or air-dropped bombs that we can make the world a safer place. We can make it a safer place with a transformed consciousness. For that transformation we need to heed the gentle and healing message of Mahavir. For Private Personal Use Only

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 MESSAGE ON VEGETARIANISM By His Excellency Mr. Mohd. Fazal, Governor of Goa, 2001, and of Mumbai, 2003 In the words of H. E. Mr. Modh. Fazal, Governor of Mumbai, and a vegetarian: The concept of vegetarianism has deep-rooted values and relevance to the physical, mental and material development of mankind, and to the moral, spiritual and philosophical aspects of life of the people. In India, our culture and civilization were, in the previous centuries, the fountainhead of Philosophy, Science, and Technology, which helped the West to use some of our basic knowledge in mathematics, technology and philosophy and with their own development make strides in all these areas. The emphasis is that a vegetarian diet has always been responding for not only to the well being of our society, but also for the all-around development of intellectual capabilities, economical and scientific diets, a healthy physique, and a peaceful state of mind. Modh. Fazal

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Pramoda Chitrabhanu Jain Meditation International Center New York City VEGETARIANISM A Compassionate Approach to Life I would like to start this article with a quotation that aptly describes today's subject that is Vegetarianism: A Compassionate Approach to Life. "Unseen they suffer, unheard they cry. In agony they linger, in silence they die. Is it nothing to you, all ye who pass by?" -Anonymous. These are the lines that express the pain and suffering of the animals that are subjected to exploitation and torture for the human greed. It is a sad to see that the innocent, dumb and defenseless creatures are being put to cruel pain far from the human eyes. The thought itself makes one's heart bleed with anguish and grief. How can we as human beings sit quietly when our younger brothers and sisters are in terrible state? Is it not our duty to protect and help them? But how difficult it is to predict man for, "Man is an actor. He acts all manner of men, and each one is a lie. Only the animal in him is real," says William Saroyan. Probably he is right by saying so, for the bestiality in the man has created a violent and destructive world in which we live today. There is so much suffering going on in this world behind the curtain, that it is a highly guarded secret. How long shall we pretend to believe that animals have no souls and so they feel no pain. It is time to wake up from our slumber and ignorance and face the truth. Animals are living beings just like you and me and as we suffer from pain and agony they do also. Let us stop being violent and act to end the cruelty that is meted on the dumb and innocent creatures. For violence begets violence and love begets love. To begin with let us see animals as living beings and not as things that are made for human beings to use and consume. For they are lives full of emotions and feelings that experience pain and pleasure as we do. As Dr. Albert Schweitzer the Nobel Peace Prize Recipient in 1952 said in his book "A Place for Revelation" that "wherever you see life-that is you. What is this recognition, this knowledge apprehended by the most learned and most childlike alike? It is 'Reverence for Life,' reverence for the impenetrable mystery that meets us in our universe, an existence different from ourselves in external appearance yet inwardly of the same character with us. Terribly similar, awesomely related. This dissimilarity, the strangeness between us and other creatures are here removed. Reverence before the infinity of life Jain Education Intemational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 means the removal of the strangeness, the restoration of shared experiences, and of compassion and sympathy." 2 In this way when we learn to see the animals as ourselves we change our perception of them and become more compassionate towards them. When such an understanding dawns on us, the first change occurs in the food pattern. One starts to observe what one puts into the body where the soul is housed. For we know that, we are what we eat. What we eat reflects in our thinking and our thinking reflects in our action. If we want a healthy body, the body should be provided with healthy and wholesome diet, pure and untainted by bloody food. If we want a healthy mind, the mind should be provided with inspiring and positive thoughts. One is often not aware of the fact that when one eats meat, one takes in protein along with the chemicals that are injected into the animals to fatten them up and antibiotics to control diseases and viruses. One also forgets that in flesh, the negative vibrations of pain, fear and rejection exist, and they permeate in every cell of the human body creating there the feeling of fear, pain and rejection. Meat contains no essential nutrients that cannot be obtained directly from plant sources. By cycling grain through livestock, we lose 90% of the protein, 96% of the calories, 99% of its carbohydrates and 100% of the fiber. How does one hope to live with good feelings of health, happiness and sound mind when negative vibrations of pain blended with chemicals are working in the body? These are the main causes that lead to the fatal diseases of the mind and the body. That is the reason why we see so many people suffering from emotional, psychological and physiological diseases. Meat-centered diets are linked to many kinds of cancer, most notably cancer of the colon, breast, cervix, uterus, ovary, prostate and lung. Statistically, approximately two million Americans die each year of which 68% are victims of the three major chronic diseases in which diet is major contributory factor: heart disease, cancer and stroke. The foods that have been singled out for special concern in connection with these diseases are eggs, meat, poultry, sea- food, animal fat and many more. If the body is fed with pure, natural and wholesome food, that involves minimum of violence, minimum of environmental damage and minimum of ecological imbalance it helps create harmony within the body and harmony without. It is good to know the statistics. It takes 273 litres of water to produce 450 grams of wheat ie. (1228.5 cups of water), 1136.5 litres of water to produce 450 grams of rice and approximately 9092 to 27,276 litres of water to produce 450 grams of meat. A chicken processing plant uses 454 million litres per day - enough to supply the water needs of 25,000 humans. Livestock are responsible for consuming 80% of the world's water supply. A litre is 4 % cups of liquid. Methane from cattle accelerates the global warming and the ozone layer depletion. PETA's (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animal) research shows that 26 billion animals are killed for food in the U.S. alone each year (9

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Bhagwaan Mahaveer in the eyes of a poet It is good to forget, it is better to forgive Mahaveer has taught us, 'live O' man, and let live' Mahaveer was human - a great soul, but we turned him into Bhagwaan (God); we should be practicing his principles in our lives, but we positioned them skillfully in the scriptures. we should be installing his spirit in the temples of our hearts, but we ceremoniously installed his marble idols in stony temples his life is venerable, estimable and worth imbibing in practice, but we remain imprisoned in our rituals of prayer and worship of him. English adaptation of Hindi Poem composed by Shri Champa Lal Chordia, Jaipur, India With Best Wishes Ramaben Daftary Gautam, Shweta, Sohum, Shivani, Dallas, TX With the best compliments from Dr. Pragna H. Suthar, D.D.S. General Dentistry 8929 South Memorial Drive, Suite 290 Tulsa, OK 74133 Phone: (918) 254-0135 Jain Education Interational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 billion land based, 17 billion aquatic). In this way when man lives a life involving gross violence like these he becomes a terrible threat to himself and to the entire planet. 3 The planet's entire petroleum reserves would be exhausted in 13 years if the whole world were to take on the technological methods used in the U.S. that produce the standard American meat-centered diet. Trees are being cut down at an alarming rate all around the world for meat production. If people made radical change in their diet only in U.S. alone 200 million acres could be returned to the forest. If one becomes a vegetarian he saves 2,400 animals in a lifetime thus becoming a blessing to oneself and a blessing to the Mother Earth. Today we see many people around the world slowly becoming aware of the animal abuse and environmental pollution and are turning vegetarians. Though it may be for religious reasons, for ethical reason, for ecological reason or for health or environmental reason. Whatever the reason may be the awareness is gaining momentum day by day and people are questioning their beliefs and conditioning. If one can try this way of diet for few months from today one can find out for themselves the change in the state of mind and the body. Let us see what vegetarianism means in today's world. The term Vegetarian is derived from the Latin word vegetus meaning "whole, lively, sound, fresh." Thus a vegetarian is one who does not eat any meat, fish, fowl or eggs. There are those who consider themselves to be vegetarians even though they eat eggs. So the vegetarians are divided into three categories: (1) Lacto-ovo-vegetarians: those that include milk, dairy products and eggs in their diets; (2) Lacto-vegetarians: those that include milk, dairy products but no eggs in their diets; (3) Vegans those that do not include any animal products like milk, cheese, curd (yogurt), butter or eggs in their diets (most even eschew honey). A vegetarian thus can easily sustain on foods like grains, legumes, beans, nuts, seeds, vegetables and fruits that are good sources of protein, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. We just saw the ethical, ecological and the health point of view of vegetarianism. Now let us address the philosophical aspect of the issue in brief. Since time immemorial scriptural studies and researches have revealed one thing that is common to all living beings and that is the desire to live and to be happy and not to die and be unhappy. But man in his pursuit of pleasure and happiness forgets this and goes to the extent of exploiting everything and

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 everyone for his greed. To satisfy his yearning he engages in violent acts like hunting, killing, confining, or taking the life of freely roving innocent creatures and ignores their right to live happily. In this way, not only does he abuse the living creatures, but in turn abuses him self by doing this. He forgets that he too is part of the planet and cannot remove him self from the universal law of vibrations of the living which is, that which you throw out comes about. To kill someone one has to be callous inwardly and then take a life. When one acts from a state of hard heartedness, one is gradually erasing the goodness in the self and reaching a point of hating everyone including the self. If one does not have reverence for one's own self, how can one have reverence for other living beings? So in this way the act of brutality perpetuates and the vicious circle of hate and violence continues. One never stops to think that eating meat for taste involves much pain and torture to a lifel A life that cannot be created in the laboratoryl A very precious life with a strong will to livel A life that needs time to unfold its own destiny on the earth, for a premature death breaks the cycle of natural expression of that life. The philosopher Plutarch said, "But for the sake of some little mouthful of flesh, we deprive a soul of the life and time it had been born into the world to enjoy." Very often people ask the question, "Why then, kill vegetables if not animals?" The Jain school of thought answers this question precisely. According to Jain philosophy, all life is divided into five categories: one sense, two sense, three sense, four sense, and five-sense beings having the sense of touch, taste, smell, sight and hearing. Vegetables are one-sense beings having only the sense of touch and animals are five-sense beings having all the five senses. The more the number of senses the more evolved the life is and more the feeling of pain. Life has to go through a laborious and strenuous process to evolve from one sense being to five-sense being. By slaughtering an animal one destroys completely the evolutionary progress of that life, which it has attained through suffering and pain. The vegetable kingdom has not yet reached the blood "consciousness" which the animals and humans have. So the degree of pain is less. Where there is blood, there are more feelings, more emotions and greater possibility of feeling deep pain. Here I would like to quote the views of Roshi Philip Kapleau on the above subject. He says that, " Flesh eaters often say that if you eat only vegetables you are also taking life. What, then is the difference between taking the life of, say a pig and that of a vegetable? He answers: all the difference in the world. Does a potato cry out when it is taken from the earth the way a calf does when it is taken from its mother? Does a stick of celery scream in pain and terror when it is picked the way a pig does when it is being led to slaughter and is having its throat cut? And how sad, lonely, and frightened can a head of lettuce feel? We don't need a polygraph to demonstrate that plants have consciousness of a sort, but this consciousness is obviously of a rudimentary kind far different from that of mammals that have well developed nervous systems." Jain Education Intemational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 3 Mahviraya Namah TULSA JAIN SANGH APPRECIATES AND THANKS TO DANNY MITCHELL FOR HONORARAY ARCHITECT SERVICE Mitchell Danny Architect 5110 South Yale Ave Tulsa Oklahoma 74135

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Nathaniel Altman said, " a vegetarian actually eats fewer plants than a meateater does, because the animals that the meat-eater has for dinner consumed thousands of pounds of plants in order to reach slaughter weight." It is a fact of life that our present stage of evolution calls for the eating of plants in order to survive. Until we find a way of getting our nutrient from the sun we have to take it from the plant kingdom thus doing the least amount of harm to the sentient beings. Two thousand and six hundred years ago, Lord Mahavir, the last prophet of Jainism and exponent of non-violence and compassion emphasized that thoughts that govern our actions are the products of the food we eat. The food that feeds the system has a definite influence on the person physically as well as emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. Healthy, whole and harmless foods give rise to healthy whole and harmless thoughts. Once the thoughts are harmless and healthy, the actions also reflect the same qualities. Weakness in character always develops in those who are in poor health, mentally or physically. 5 Science has discovered in recent years that character and personality are attributes of the inner workings of the body and have a great bearing upon our success in life and in our happiness. The personality reveals and expresses itself through the physical body. The expression of the face, the smile, which is the manifestation of joy, happiness and compassion, reveal the personality within. Without a healthy body, these manifestations are not possible. Thus vegetarianism means a compassionate approach to life, expressing our reverence for all life forms including ourselves- from the minutest microbeings to the macro- beings, from the lowest developed consciousness to the highest developed consciousness. I would like to end this paper with an Affirmation of Peace. O Hidden Life, Vibrant in Every Atom O Hidden Light, Shining in every Creature O Hidden Love, Embracing All in Oneness, May each of us who feels as One with Thee Know that we are therefore One with every other. XXXXXX

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 ...Doing business without advertising is like winking at a girl in the dark, You know what you are doing, but nobody else does. team s nomeno ...A man is not old as long as he is seeking something The pain of the mind is worse than the pain of the body. to hoga...The man that doesn't make mistakes does not usually make anything.el 70b7o ni ort ...It takes less time to do a thing right than it does to explain why you did it wrong. nep rin ...He who waits to do a great deal of good at once, will never do anything. leinerte asob retse ...The half of the LIFE is if the 4 of life is LIE og to abnazuont ...Defect is not the worst of failures. Not to have tried is the true failure. The finest inheritance you can give to a child is to allow it to make its own way completely on its own own feet. Do not take life too seriously, you will never get out of it alive. ...Take each day one at a time. Do not look back and grieve over the past, for it is gone. Do not worry about the future, for it has not yet come. Live in the present, and make it so beautiful that it would be worth remembering. 10 vietnam ...Let every day be a dream we can tell. Let every day be a love you can feel. Let every day be a region to love. wo noqu gm 20esxe br roldwellme on MANOJ C. MANIAR Real Estate Broker M.B.A. www.ManojManiar.com Best Wishes From: bed ed Prabhubhai, Rohit, Gulabben, Nayna, Roshan, Amish ig 62 CALL: MANOJ C. MANIAR ve REAL ESTATE IN SAN DIEGO MT *Buying/Selling Homes/Condos righ Hotel/Motel/Land *Help in Getting Loans Shopping Centers motA v *Property Management Services online so nabbit O *Over 15 years full-time Real Estate experience in San Diego 0 FREE (upon close of Escrow) Receive $500 gift certificate from store. (Call for details) KA PROPERTY GALLERY 9396B Mira Mesa Blvd., San Diego, CA 92126 Cell: (858) 699-5899 Off: (858) 271-8400 www.jainelibrary

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 GREAT MEN'S VIEW ON JAINISM "In conclusion let me assert my conviction that Jainism is an original system, quite distinct and independent from all others; and that therefore it is of great importance for the study of philosophical thoughts and religious life in ancient India." - Dr. Herman Jacobi "What would be the condition of the Indian Sanskrit literature if the contribution of the Jains were removed? The more I study Jain literature the more happy and wonder struck I am." -- Dr. Hertel, Germany "Jainism is of a very high order. Its important teachings are based upon science. The more the scientific knowledge advances the more that Jain teachings will be proven." - L. P. Tessetori, Italy "I adore so greatly the principles of the Jain religion, that I would like to be reborn in a Jain community." -- George Bernard Shaw "I say with conviction that the doctrine for which the name of Lord Mahavir is glorified nowadays is the doctrine of Ahimsa. If anyone has practiced to the fullest extent and has propagated most the doctrine of Ahimsa, it was Lord Mahavira." - Mahatma Gandhi "Mahavira proclaimed in India that religion is a reality and not a mere social convention. It is really true that salvation can not be had by merely observing external ceremonies. Religion cannot make any difference between man and man." -- Dr. Rabindranath Tagore "Jainism has contributed to the world the sublime doctrine of Ahimsa. No other religion has emphasized the importance of Ahimsa and carried its practice to the extent that Jainism has done. Jainism deserves to become the universal religion because of its Ahimsa doctrine." -- Justice Ranglekar, Bombay High Court "The Jain monk (Sadhu) leads a life which is praised by all. He practices the vows (vralas) and rites strictly and shows to the world the way one has to go in order to realize the atma (soul). Even the life of a Jain householder is so faultless that India should be proud of him." -- Dr. Satischandra Vidhya Bhushan Jain Education Intemational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Compassionate Quotes Non-violence and kindness to living beings is kindness to oneself. For thereby one's own self is saved from various kinds of sins and resultant sufferings and is able to secure his own welfare. --Mahavira The time will come when men will look on the murder of animals as they now look on the murder of men. --Leonardo da Vinci Until we extend our circle of compassion to include every living creature we cannot enjoy 'World PEACE'. --Albert Schweitzer 'Thou shalt not kill' does not apply to murder of one's own kind only, but to all living beings and this commandment was inscribed in the human breast long before it was proclaimed from Sinai. --Leo Tolstoy We should be able to refuse to live if the price of living be the torture of sentient beings. --Mahatma Gandhi The highest religion is to rise to universal brother hood; and to consider all creatures your equals. --Guru Nanak Let us pray that our food should not be colored with animal blood and human suffering. --Chitrabhanuji Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy. --Jesus Christ Animals cannot speak, but can you and I not speak for them and represent them? Let us all feel their silent cry of agony and let us all help that cry to be heard in the world. --Rukmini Devi Arundale Cruelty is the obvious cancer of modern civilization. --Rev. A. D. Beldon Anything that can feel pain should not be put to pain. --R. M. Dolgin Sympathy for the lowest animals is one of the noblest virtues with which man is endowed. --Charles Robert Darwin

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Jainism Not An Atheism A guide for separating mytb from reality By Herbert Warren Around the year 1900, Herbert Warren was a young man in England whose questioning of his Anglican faith led him to study under the great Jain scholar and barrister Virchand R. Gandhi. A product of British skepticism, Warren embraced Jainism and its codes of nonviolent ethics and would later write a number of works explaining them relative to other current ideologies, including this piece which was republished in India by The World Jain Mission (Etah) under guidance of Elcharya Muni Shri Vidya Nandji. Those who believe in a creator sometimes look upon Jainism as an atheistic religion, but Jainism cannot be so called. Jainism does not deny the existence of 'God' (Siddha, Paramatman). God is described in Jain scriptures, but there is a difference between the description of God as given in these books and the description given in the religious books of other faiths. The chief difference is that while God is described in the books of some other faiths as being a creator and ruler, God is not so described in the Jain books. God, according to the Jain description is an all-knowing and perfectly happy soul with infinite capacities for activity: a pure and perfect soul without any material body, a being that cannot perish or become degenerate. To disbelieve in the existence of a thing is not the same as simply not attributing to that thing some particular quality. In believing in the existence of soul in a pure and perfect state Jainism cannot be classed with those who do not believe in the existence of soul different from matter (materialists). Pure soul and 'God' are in reality one and the same thing, and the final goal of any particular soul is to become pure and perfect; in other words, to become a God with all the attributes of divinity which, in the Jain faith, do not include creating and ruling. Atheists, properly speaking, are those who deny the existence of soul and maintain that there is no such thing as a soul distinct from matter. They assert that what people call 'soul' is nothing but an outcome of a particular combination of atoms of matter, and that when that particular combination is impaired, the soul becomes extinct. According to Jainism every living soul (Jiva] has existed from eternity, and from eternity souls have ever been emerging from the ordinary embodied worldly condition, and will continue for all time to do so; but they never come down from this condition of Godhead to the condition of souls in the ordinary embodied states. From all eternity the ordinary soul has been indulging in false attachment and aversion to other things. Ignorant of its own nature, and by reason of this indulgence it is never at ease. Upon the abandonment of this attachment and aversion the soul becomes calm and tranquil, and when completely free from the influence of these unnatural activities, the soul lives its natural life and Jain Education InteHerbert Warren, "Jainism Not an Atheism

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 becomes all-knowing, permanently happy, and immortal. In short, it becomes a 'God'. Thus Jainism does not deny the existence of God, but it does deny that in Godhead there is the quality of creating and ruling other things and beings by punishment and reward. Now let us see whether the qualities of creating and ruling can be attributed to Deity without impairing His other qualities, or whether attributing those qualities to the Deity involves contradictions and defects, without contributing to the virtuous conduct of man and to his salvation. Those who believe 'God' to be a creator (creationists) can be divided chiefly into two classes: (1) those who regard three things as eternal, viz., God, soul and matter, saying that out of the latter two God makes the universe; and (2) those who hold that only God is eternal and nothing else. This latter class may be again divided into (a) those who believe that God created the world out of nothing, and (b) those who believe that God created the universe out of himself. With regard to the first class, viz., those who believe that God, matter and souls are eternal and that God makes the world our of matter and souls, it is obvious that, given matter and souls with their attributes and conditions, they are quite sufficient, by their mutual interaction, to make a world. Hence, there is no need of any interference by a Deity. Further, perfection and all-happiness must be attributed to Deity; and being thus perfect and happy, he could not wish to create a world, for a desire to create a world would indicate a want in a Deity, and a want is not consistent with the idea of perfection. Thus by attributing creation to Deity the qualities of perfection and happiness are destroyed. Moreover, it is admitted that ordinary living beings suffer pain and misery, and that salvation from these pains and miseries can be obtained by obeying the precepts of 'God' as given to the world (that is, through his rulership). But creating souls and bringing them into the pains and miseries of the world, and then afterwards giving them precepts by acting upon which they can release themselves from these pains and miseries, is not an act of wisdom. For an omniscient and almighty being, who should put a thing into an unsatisfactory condition and then give it rules for its betterment, could not be called wise and benevolent. Again, an omniscient being has no need of testing anybody or anything to see what it will do; and if it be said that 'God' put souls into this world to see which of them would obtain salvation and which would not, then the omniscient quality of the Deity is destroyed. Again, to attribute creation to Deity is not consistent with goodness, because with a perfectly good creator there would be no evil or impurity in his creation. No worldly ruler desires bad acts to be committed in his country; but worldly rulers are not omniscient and omnipotent, and they cannot therefore prevent such acts from being committed in their kingdoms. However, Deity is to be considered as perfectly powerful and benevolent as well as omniscient, and therefore no evil deeds could be committed if Deity were the creator of the world, for he would not give his creatures the power of committing such deeds. The same is the case in relation to sorrow, pain, disease and poverty. If it be said that pain and disease are the result of the evil deeds of those who suffer these things, then, if Deity is regarded as the creator who gave people the power of doing evil deeds and afterwards punishes them for exerting that power, such a Deity would lack the quality of goodness. For what would one think of even an earthly father who, seeing his son about to commit some evil deed and being able to prevent him, took no action in the matter, but punished the son afterwards for his sin? Herbert Warren, "Jainism Not an Atheism" Jain Education Intemational

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THE PATH UNLIKE ANY OTHER: HOW & WHY I CAME TO FOLLOW JAIN PHILOSOPHY Gabriel E. Figueroa vegangf@aol.com Almost everyone has experienced a moment of incredible clarity and insight wherein everything makes sense and seems to fall into place. Usually, these moments are instantaneous and go as quickly as they come. I experienced such a moment of great clarity and tremendous insight the first time I encountered Jain philosophy. The difference was that this clarity and insight have continued to be a part of my life as I learned more about Jainism. I was raised in a Catholic family. We were never particularly religious. I did go through the motions of the Catholic sacraments, but my heart was not really in it. Part of me always felt that Catholicism was not spiritually fulfilling. I really didn't look into other faiths right away, but I gradually withdrew from attending Mass and church functions. At the age of 18, I was in my senior year of high school and became friends with an existentialist. He really opened my eyes though our conclusions were somewhat different. He would ask me these really thought-provoking questions. I would answer them. He would then question my answer. And I would answer his questions. Of course, he would question my answers. I would get so frustrated thinking that nothing could be answered in absolute terms. My friend would always find a question. My mind had always been very logical, and this sent me searching for answers that were not so easily reduced. Simultaneously, I had a spiritual void that needed to be filled. My search led me to look at some different religious traditions. For me, the most fascinating, devotional, and logical were the Indian religions. At that time, I did not know that what I liked about the Indian religions was the contribution of Jainism. I began considering the notion of karma and reincarnation, non-violence, and respect for all living beings. I thought about vegetarianism and began to feel a sense of guilt about eating meat. Everything seemed to be pointing me in the direction of Ahimsa. Finally one day I knew I could no longer eat an animal and so I stopped. In my first year of vegetarianism, I learned as much as I could about vegetarianism. I started to realize the cruelty to animals in all animal products and promptly made a move from ova-lacto vegetarian to vegan. I quit using eggs (which I had taken reluctantly anyway), dairy products, honey, leather, wool, silk, etc. Also, I remember reading about Jainism in a book about vegetarianism and feeling a strong attraction to Jain ideals. The small blurb made me hungry to learn more about this truly beautiful spiritual path. It was from this time that I remember the feeling of insight and great clarity. I began reading everything I could find about. Jainism. Most of what I did read was written by misinformed westerners who viewed Jainism as some sort of offshoot of Hinduism. There were great distortions about the origins, teachings, and practices of Jainism. I did manage to obtain some accurate information from some Jain organizations as well as get to know some Jains personally, so I began to learn more. The more I learned, the more I started to realize that I had been fortunate enough to find the true path. Not only did I find it logically appealing, but also intuitively I felt as if I were already aware of the truths of Jainism but that they were harbored deep with in me. After studying Jain philosophy for a few years, I found that I wanted to practice it more in daily life. I knew there were Jain rituals but did

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not understand what they or their significance were exactly. I also had never been to a Jain temple. Though I have always considered true prac tice more important than ritual. I wanted to learn more. This was very difficult. I found that many Jains whom I met were unfamiliar with the meaning behind the rituals. I had the opportunity to stay with a nice Jain family in Houston. They were very hospitable and also quite knowledgeable about different Jain rituals. I went to the Jain Center in Houston and attended the Young Jain Association Southwest Regional Conference in 1996. This made a tremendous difference in my understanding by allowing me to see how others practiced Jainism. I found that like any other path, there were many who were uncertain about their faith. There was also confusion among younger people as to whether Jain concepts were truly practical in this society at this time. I met many who possessed incredible knowledge about Jainism but admitted their practice was not always as it should be. I was amazed that there were a number of non-vegetarians. I was disillusioned to find that Jainism was taken for granted by many of those who had been born into it. How could the 'true path' be ignored? In thinking about it, I came to realize that I was dealing with a phenomenon that happens in all religious traditions. It had happened to me; I had not accepted my own religious upbringing and had questioned much of what my elders told me was the "right" thing to do. If I had simply accepted it all, I would have never been exposed to Jainism (or for that matter many other interesting and beautiful philosophies). How else could one ever really know if Jainism was the true path? I began to realize that unless one had really done some self-examination or already had a strong inner knowing, then there would probably always be a level of doubt about this or any path. On top of that, we live in a society where we are inundated with marketing that encourages us to Jain Education Intemational live our lives as the corporate giants see fit. At every turn, there is a McDonalds or KFC fast food restaurant. Even schools encourage us to eat and behave in ways that are contrary to the teachings of Jainism. Following a code of Ahimsa may appear impossible when we are strongly urged to do things that violate it and are surrounded by those who contradict it constantly. No wonder there is so much confusion among Jains living in North America. I had felt the same confusion about Catholicism, though I had not had quite the same struggle between the rules of Catholicism and the standards of society. My confusion had led me into a search for true spirituality that resulted in tremendous growth for me. I never returned to Catholicism but did come to appreciate it more as a result of my quest. I was truly lucky because I had examined other religions before coming to find Jainism; thus I was able to see the essential differences and saw that Jainism had some characteristics that were very unique. These unique characteristics made me realize that Jainism was a path unlike any other. I will now explain some of what really had an impact on me. Jainism recognizes that we alone. are responsible for our destiny. This is both. frightening and liberating. It is frightening to those who have been conditioned to believe that by worshipping the proper god in the proper religion their ultimate goal will be achieved. These worshippers rely on an external agent rather than on their own soul. It is also frightening to those who engage in activities that violate the sanctity of the soul, because they realize that they will have to experience the consequences of their actions. It is liberating because we realize that we hold the key to the ultimate goal. We can do it, and we have instructions on how to do it. No one else can do it for us. Those who achieved the goal of liberation were humans too. We can transform ourselves to be like they are, step by step. Ahimsa is found to a certain extent in most

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religious traditions, but only in Jainism is it given. paramount importance. The Tirthankaras recognized that all beings' souls are the same regardless of the body they inhabit. Underneath the karmic matter is a pure soul whether one is a grasshopper or a human being. Most of the time we confuse the body for the soul. But Jain philosophy teaches us that soul is primary and all souls are important. Simply because one soul inhabits the body of a chicken does not make that soul less important. It is better to strive to help other souls and not hurt them. Vegetarianism is a small but effective step that helps us to minimize violence towards other beings. It is a great place to start, but Jain philosophy teaches us that if we are to realize our soul we need to go further. We need to purify our thoughts towards others and ourselves. We need to realize that when we harm others, we harm ourselves. There are many things we can do or refrain from doing that will truly help us and ultimately help others through example. Everything in Jainism ties into the idea that we are independent beings that are responsible for our own destiny through our thoughts and actions. So we can understand why it is important to be non-violent. The Jain code of conduct is based on non-violence totally, because this is the only way to begin on the path to liberation. For instance, why is it important to be truthful? Through lies, we hurt others with our words and then we hurt ourselves. Why should we not steal? Isn't stealing also a form of violence? What about wrong thinking? What if we think we are better than others? These are forms of violence in and of themselves, and they lead to greater forms of violence in our actions. Anekantavada helps us to act non-violently towards others by allowing us to see things from a different perspective. All religious paths give us rules, and most attribute them to a higher power. In my heart, I knew from the beginning that Jainism was the true path. Once I realized that only Jainism was so thorough in providing us with a path to liberation and ultimate happiness, I knew in my mind it was the true path. I still am inspired by other religions and study them to learn more about them. They help me to be able to relate to others and gain additional viewpoints. They enrich me, but I personally find that Jainism is so much deeper in all respects. We pretend we don't notice, but we are souls. So how can we help but notice? For me, Jainism is extremely practical. Jain meditation has provided tremendous power in my life. It has a cleansing quality that bathes my soul. It allows. me to see the potential God in all living beings. I find that I am able to remove negative thoughts and emotions. I feel happier in my daily life. I still have challenges, but I view them in a different light. I know when I ignore my soul, I suffer. I have realized that when I neglect meditation or somehow break any of the principles of Jainism, the consequences tend to show themselves very quickly. It can be a struggle at times doing what we know is right, but it is also very rewarding. In any case, Jainism allows us to realize that everything is a choice. This is a very powerful idea that can and will transform our lives if we remember and practice it. Ja Gabriel Figueroa is an editor for American Vegan Magazine. Though raised in a Catholic family with roots in Guatemala, he has closely followed Jainism for six years. Mr. Figueroa has studied philosophy and Asian Studies extensively and works in the marketing of hardware and software technologies.

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Song of Peace "We are the living graves of murdered beasts, Slaughtered to satisfy our appetites, We never pause to wonder at our feasts, If animals, like men, can possibly have rights, We pray on Sundays that we may have light, To guide our foot-steps on the paths we tread. We're sick of war, we do not want to fight, The thought of it now fills our hearts with dread And yet we gorge ourselves upon the dead. Like carrion crows, we live and feed on meat, Regardless of the suffering and pain We cause by doing so. If thus we treat Defenseless animals for sport or gain, How can we hope in this world to attain The PEACE we say we are so anxious for? We pray for it, o'er hecatombs of slain, To God, while outraging the moral law, Thus cruelty begets its offspring - War." --George Bernard Shaw

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 The Tile Source & Carpet Inc. 6550 E. 41st St. Tulsa, OK 74145 918-828-0003 We at The Tile Source & Carpet would like to take this opportunity to thank Tulsa Jain Sangh Temple for allowing us the opportunity to furnish the marble necessary for the entry into the Temple. We are thankful also for the Indian Community for using us as the provider of material and labor for Hotels, as well as recommending us for the work at the Temple. In order to show our gratitude we would like to offer the members of Jain Sangh Temple a 10% discount off our already low retail prices. Just present the coupon below at the time of your selection and your discount will be applied. This coupon entitles members of the Jain Sangh Temple an additional 10% discount of purchases made at The Tile Source & Carpet Inc. 6440 E. 41st Tulsa, OK 74145 918-828-0003

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 With Best Compliments To Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 From: Kishor and Jyotsna Mehta & Family ASPEN CHILDREN'S CLINIC OF BROKEN ARROW, INC. SURESH BHARANI, M.D. Infant, Child & Adolescent Care 3300 S. Aspen Ave., #B Broken Arrow, OK 74012 Office: (918) 455-4140 Emergency: (918) 493-6868 bharani@yourmd.com Jain Education Intemational

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COURAGE TO BE DIFFERENT, TO BE JAIN, AND TO REMAIN JAIN IN THE WESTERN CULTURE Payal Kapadia desikudiyas@yahoo.com "Courage is doing what you're afraid to do. There can be no courage unless you're scared," said Eddie Rickenbacker, U.S. World War I ace and an industrialist. We don't need courage to be different, to be Jain, to remain Jain in the Western culture and today's environment. Living in the United States does make it a little hard to follow it because we do live on the land where most of the people are not friendly to animals and himsa is done. It's not easy to follow our principles here, but it's not impossible either, and we don't need courage, we need practice and the right environment. Courage is needed when we are doing something for the first time. When I sat behind the driving wheels for the first time, I needed courage. But with practice and the right environment, I was able to get used to driving. It seemed that I didn't need courage after that time. In the same way support of our parents, practice, and environment are important to follow the right beliefs, so courage is needed to be different. If Buddhists, Muslims, Hindus, Jews, etc. can follow their religion in the Western culture, then why can't Jains follow their religion! Upon uttering a few words by Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj of Swaminarayan Organization, thousands and thousands of Hindus devote their life and time in helping the humanity, regardless of what culture they live in. Despite living in a different cultural environment, they did not leave their culture and principles behind. For a whole month, Muslims can fast and pray without making an excuse of living in the Western culture. So what if we live in the Western culture, aren't we still Jains! Do Jains here think that since we are living in a Western cultural environment we should live like a westerner and follow their Jain Education Intemational culture and compromise our own principles? I believe we should definitely adapt good things from the surroundings but also never forget our principles and culture. It is true that we are a minority. Not many people know about Jainism, so I think it's our job as Jains to let the world know about Jain principles. I remember, until middle school when someone asked me what religion I followed, I would say Hinduism, thinking that they wouldn't know about Jainism. But as I grew older, I understood I was wrong. "Why did I never say that I was a Jain?" Then in high school, I began to tell that I am a Jain and they would ask what Jainism is about. I would tell them as much as I knew, and at that time I didn't feel the need of courage. All my Indian friends from high school were either Hindus or Muslims. Some of them ate meat, but when I visited their home, they made sure that there was no meat in the house. I don't eat potatoes, onions, and garlic so they cooked all the food pure Jain. I'm not saying about Hindu friends only but also Muslim friends. I think that if you stand up for the right beliefs everyone will respect you. You don't need courage to stand up for the right beliefs. Sometimes we underestimate our religion as well as ourselves. We become so involved in the Western environment, that at times we forget our roots. I remember last year on Diwali, a friend of mine and I went to the Swaminarayan temple for darshan, and I was so surprised to see how many teenagers had come there. I had never seen that many teenagers in our Jain Center ever for anything unless there was a party or picnic. hosted by the Center. It's sad to realize how many Jain parents never tell their children to come to Jain Center. They leave that decision up to them.

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 30 Mahviraya Namah With best wishes to Tulsa Jain Sangh on the Auspicious occasion of Pratishtha Mahotsav May 29,30 & 31 2004 From ADITYA - ANJALI ILARVIND VORA With Best Compliments To Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 From: Ramesh & Rashmi Shah Houston, TX Jain Education Intemational

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These kinds of situations keep us from being like Hindu teenagers. In the future, we might need courage to follow Jainism, because we would have adapted more to Western culture. I feel that in times to come Jainism might disintegrate. I am afraid to say that we, the new generation, might have no one to look up to. We go to Jain Center hoping to learn something new, but come back with a disappointment after seeing the way adults argue in general body meetings. We go to Jain Center hoping to volunteer, but are unable to accomplish it because we don't get enough encouragement and support from the adults. I don't know this is the kind of impression they want us to live with." I can guarantee that if these kinds of immature acts continue in the future, it surely will be the reason for the downfall of Jainism. If the parents are not involved in informing their children about our culture or religion and encourage them to follow Jainism, then the coming generation cannot understand the difference between the two cultures. And it will be too difficult later to teach them because it will then be too late. They will be gone too far into the Western culture and it would be hard to bring them back. Living in the Western culture should make us strive to tell others about our culture, our values, and our religion. We should be proud to have been born in this great religion. Instead of making an excuse of living in the Western culture, we should make that a strong point and follow it. We don't need courage to be different, to be Jain, to remain Jain in the Western culture and environment. All we need is the right belief, right view, and support of our parents and Jain society to remain Jain in this Western culture and in today's environment. a Payal Kapadia is a sophomore at University of Houston. She is pursuing career in Genetics. She is a team player and participated at the Jain Academic Bowl in Chicago, 2001. Jain Education Intemational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 KUMON *Commercial Real Estate and Income Investment Properties Hotel/Motel, Land, Foreclosures, Bankruptcies, Strip Centers, Leasing MATH. READING. SUCCESS. LET YOUR CHILD AMAZE YOU. FREE Placement Testing! Build your child's math & reading skills 2004 Kurton North America. Inc Kumon is a different kind of learning program. With Kumon, children master the basics of math and reading. Plus, they also build the learning skills, study habits, and confidence they need to succeed in school...and beyond. Just imagine where that could take your child. Ashok Daftary, CCIM CIM Broker Individual Member Your Professional Source for Commercial Real Estate & Finance Phone:(972) 612-0000 Email:acdaftary@yahoo.com SOUTH CENTRAL TULSA ist & Memorial 918.254.5437(KIDS) www.kumon.com WITH BEST COMPLIMENTS FROM M. C. SHAH CPA ASSOCIATES LLC CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT 227 LINCOLN HWY., U.S. ROUTE 27 ISELIN, NJ 08830 PHONE: (732) 283-1991/2 FAX: (732) 283-2070 Email: shahman@comcast.net Over fifteen years experience in accounting and planning for Professionals and business owners INDIVIDUAL AND CORPORATE TAX PREPARATION - AUDITING, SERVICES FINANCIAL PLANNING - CONSULTING SERVICES LITIGATION SUPPORT - BUSINESS EVALUATION BUSINESS SETUPS - BOOK KEEPING AND PAYROLL SERVICES There is really no substitute for sound advice and practical experience in business planning and Accounting: Call us to serve you the best possible service from one of the best in the business BE WITH THE BEST E ation International

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. . Are ABCDs Confused About Jainism Dr. Jhankhana Jina Shah jinashah@yahoo.com wonder that many of the children are as well. Perhaps it does not have to stay that way. Socalled ABCDs and other modern Jains have an opportunity to take a fresh look at Jainism. Let's take a closer look at what we would like in the future of Jainism and Jaih institutions and how the American Jain experience can shape our contributions. Originally, the editors of the JAINA souvenir suggested as an essay topic the question, "Why Are ABCDs Confused About Jainism?" As an American born Jain, I see the term "ABCDs" (American Born Confused Desis) as implying that India born Jains are clear and only those who are American born are confused about desi culture. I'd like to rephrase the question as: Are ABCDs confused about Jainism? We have to acknowledge that there is a lot of confusion about Jainism, which is not only among those of us who are American born or among those living in America. In an increasingly materialistic and acquisitive global culture, it is difficult for Jain communities to value the learning of a philosophy of renunciation. But it is not only in modern times that Jain laypeople (shravaka) have found it hard to focus on our religion. As Vastupal Parekh discussed at the Young Jain Professionals' Convention in October 2002, the Jains in India have abdicated, for hundreds of years, their responsibility for learning and practicing Jainism to the sadhvis and sadhus. Often the principles of simplicity, non-possessiveness, and non-violence were practiced as lacto-vegetarianism inside the home, monetary donations from wealthy men, and fasting with other ritual practices from women and the elderly. Often laypeople did not have the inclination to learn about other ways to live by Jain principles. Our grandparents and parents certainly were comfortable with the way they practiced Jainism in India, and these practices are harder to follow in the United States without constant cultural reinforcement. However, I would suggest that these practices are themselves limited. Many parents have not had any opportunity to read important Jain books or to integrate meditation into their busy lives. At their core, they are still confused by many aspects of Jainism, and it is no The Future of Jainism and the Importance of Learning Jain Principles Jainism of the future (as well as of the present) should be relevant and practical to the world. It should relieve suffering, both internal and mental, and external and materialistic. Jainism needs to be non-sectarian. Mahavir opposed caste as an institution, and yet to our detriment, we have adopted the concept of Jains, or even smaller community/sect subsets, as castes for social purposes. Our challenge is to learn Jain principles so that we can see the common spirit behind different traditions. Then with the openness of anekantvad, along with the discernment of samyak darshan, we can selectively take the best from many cultures and religions. Our learning should be facilitated by reading, discussions, electronic resources, and direct experience. The more quality materials we have in English, the more accessible Jainism will be for young people and especially from those outside of India. Interaction is important along with reading. Discussions work better than lectures. Good quality resources on CD-ROM and the Internet can make it easy to find information. Of course, learning by direct experience is the most powerful way to learn. Service and meditation are some examples of spiritual experiences that can help us to learn and practice compassion. We need to keep on learning in all of these ways for Jainism to flourish. Jain Education Intemational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Jai Jinendra Best Wishes To SUBWAY eat fresh. Tulsa Jain Sangh Different People Different Taste Subway Subs 6 Grams of Fat From: Ramilaben, Mayank & Rajul Shah (India) Dhanesh & Pinal Shah Rohan & Roma Shah (Sugarland, TX) 834-7827 Visit Us at: 6373 E 31st Street 31st Street & Sheridan Road (Next to Quick Trip) With Best Compliments To Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 From: Ishwar L. Patel & Family Jain Education Interational

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The Gap Between Theory and Practice: A Source of Confusion Young people are very sensitive to the gap between what people say and what they do. They are quick to point out hypocrisy and it drives. them away from Jain institutions. If it seems that American born youth are more confused, it may just be that we are willing to voice the discomfort that we feel with this gap. For example, certain Jain organizations have become yet one more battleground for individuals to invest their egos in particular positions. We talk about aparigraha, and yet there are blatant displays of wealth at Jain functions, with the promise of better karma for those who are able to pay for the privilege of a special puja. We talk about the potential of all souls to reach perfection, and then we tell young girls to focus on their bodies and clothes, as if they are on display and will be judged. Why there is a gap between theory and prac tice? Some of our practices have been derived from the Indian culture more than from the Jain religion. At the Young Jains of America Convention in 1998, a teenager described her confusion about her parents' insistence that she cover her head in a Jain temple. She could not articulate all the reasons and she was confused. But I will try to outline some of the reasons that I find covering of women's head in a temple inconsistent with laypeople's behavior. If the idea is to think and behave modestly and simply (like a Jain sadhavi), why do women dress in a decorative and colorful way with so much gold and silk in the temple? Also, none of the men cover their head. If the head was to be covered to show respect to the murtis, shouldn't men show respect also? Rather, it seems to follow a general Indian practice with a profound influence from Islam and Judaism, in which women cover their head to discourage men from having inappropriate thoughts in the temple. Placing the burden of controlling men's mind on women does not have a basis in Jain principles and is out of place in American culture. Also, many of our puja ceremonies, while imbued by monks with a particular Jain symbolism, appear from the outside, like Hindu ceremonies. If we don't understand the symbolism, there is nothing particularly Jain. about the pujas we perform. There is an even more basic reason for the gap between theory and practice. We have innumerable barriers, including kashayas, ego, anger, fear, and other illogical, subconscious aspects of ourselves that keep us from fulfilling our best intentions. While young people challenge hypocrisy, they are themselves susceptible to the same. kashayas that they see in others, so all of us need to be aware of it and learn to forgive. How Jain Institutions Can Help Us to Develop Spiritually: From Confusion to Creativity Despite the pitfalls of institutionalized. Jainism which I have alluded to, Jain organizations can help us in our development. Early in life, we understand only concrete things. Rituals and pujas characterize abstract concepts. As we mature, we can think more and more abstractly. We can understand the symbolism behind concrete objects and events. We can begin to think critically of how Jainism applies to the modern world, rather than simply following a prescribed set of rules. Instead of only worshipping the images of those who meditate, we can also start to emulate what they are doing, by learning to med itate. Our organizations have followed a developmental cycle with which most readers will be familiar. The kids of the first wave of immigrants in the 1960s and 1970s, after their parents founded local and national Jain organizations, formed their own social and religious network, Young Jains of America (YJA). The older group among the second generation has grown out of YJA, into another organization called Young Jain Professionals (YJP). As the population of Indians in the United States as well as in organizations such as YJA and YJP have grown, an increasing number of second generation American born Jains are at home in both cultures. Many socalled "ABCD" Jains have moved beyond cultur

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al confusion or conflict to a comfortable Jain and Indian-American identity. Some have incorporated many aspects of multiple cultures and religious traditions into their lives. Confused Jains have become creative Jains! As development progresses, however, we will have new challenges. It is not clear to me, if the young people now in YJA and YJP, will be invited to contribute their experiences to Jain institutions in America? Because both of these groups have age caps, there are finite limits to our participation in them. If we cannot help to drive the agenda and activities of our local Jain centers and the federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA), will we need yet another group? It would be unfortunate to have yet more splintering within our tiny community. So, finally, my answer to the question of whether ABCDs are confused about Jainism is that some are, but no more than other Jains, and many have creatively risen to the challenge of overcoming their confusion to make contributions for the community. However, we need to keep on discovering new ways to encourage these contributions. We have a great tradition of strength and mutual support in the Jain community all over the world. Let's stay away from labels that imply that some of us know the "right way" to be Jain and others are confused. If we learn from each other and encourage spiritual progress, we can maximize our contributions to the world. Sa Jina Shah has learned and taught Jainism at JAINA, YJA, YJP and local Jain events in the United States. She has also participated in Jain events in India, London, and Kenya. She is a family physician who works with the Centers for Disease Control as an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer. Jain Education Intemational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Mahviraya Namah Congratulation to all to finish our dream and vision. With best wishes to Tulsa Jain Sangh on the Auspicious occasion of Pratishtha Mahotsav May 29,30 & 31 2004 From Aruna, Kanti, Mitul and Himali Shah Late Shantaba, Jethalal Shah Vasantben, Kishorkant Gopani Madhukanta, Amratlal Shah Yogini, Rasiklal Shah Premila, Rajnikant Shah Hansa, Dilip Shah Dina, Chandrakant Shah Non violence and kindness to living beings is kindness to oneself. For thereby one's own-self is saved from various kinds if sins and resultant sufferings and is able to secure his own welfare JAINAM JATTE SHASHNAM THANK YOU Late Zaveriba, Shantilal Kothari Hiraben, Maganlal Sanghvi Hira Mahasukhlal Kothari Subhadra, Late Jayantilal Kothari Indira, Jawahrlal Kothari Urmila, Chandrakant Kothari Late Joystna, Mahendra Shah CHANDRAKANT KOTHARI VADODRA, INDIA (Aruna's Brother) FOR ALL YOUR HELP TIME AND EFFORT TOWARDS PRABHASAN SUPERVISION WE APPRECIATE ALL THE WORK YOU HAVE DONE FOR US. ARUNA K. & KANTI J. SHAH MITUL K. & HIMALI K.SHAH

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 ja eka bhavanA 'AnaMda' mATe, "anaMta-bhavonuM AmaMtraNa' ApatAM pahelAM he sAdhaka, tuM jarA vicAraje! ja AjanA yuvAno Heroin (heroIna = eka mAdaka dravya) ane Heroine (hiroIna = naTI) pAchaLa pAgala banI potAnuM paurUSatva gumAvI rahyA che. upAzrayo vadhAryo zuM vaLe, je yogya upAsanAo thatI na hoya? (sthAnako vadhavAthI - sAdhanAo vadhe evo koI niyama nathI) che "pAtratA' pramANe ja "prAti' hoya che (pAtratA = prArabdhaka puruSArtha). ja mokSa-maMjhile na pahoMcADe e mArga' zuM kAmano ? (e "mokSamArga' hoto ja nathI) ja "ukaLatA'' (krodhI) jIvano "upadeza" paNa "upakArI" banato nathI che "saMsAra-bhAva'' na chUTe to, so varasanuM sAdhupaNuM paNa zuM kAmanuM? che "hoya bheda bhale kASTramAM - bAvaLa ka caMdanataNA, paNa "rAkha' thayA pachI koI bheda nathI. hoya bheda bhale saMsAramAM - amIra ke garIbataNo paNa "rAkha' thayA pachI koI bheda nathI'' "veda" nA "vamaLa'mAM na phasAI jAya e khare ja 'viralo' hoya che! ja "vakhata' ne "veDaphI' nAkhanArane, "vakhata' ja "veDaphI' nAkhe che! vacanagupti (mauna) sevanArane prAyaH "vacanalabdhi' prApta thAya che. (mauna paNa eka 'tapa' che) ja "anaMta no aMta Ave ja nahiM" e satya hovA chatAM, "anaMta'ne AMbavA mATe amuka "ajJa' loko prayAsa kare che. evo prayAsa "eLe' (vyartha) ja javAno. apekSAo-AzAo anaMta che tenI pUrti kadI zakya nathI. hA! ghaTADI jarUra zakAya! ja "saraLatA' e "sAdhanarUpI sIDI''nuM sauthI prathama "sopAna' (pagathiyuM) che. cheAtmadhyAna-anuprekSAo Adi vaDe, AtmAno alaukika-adbhuta AnaMda anubhavI zakAya che. ja "lakhapatI" hoya ke "laMkApati', Akhare to tene "lAkaDAM" bheguM ja thavAnuM hoya che. (prazya hoya to caMdananA nahiMtara bAvaLanA to kharA ja!) ja "sukha'nuM saranAmuM kAM to ApaNane khabara nathI ane kAM to khabara hovA chatAM tene anya sthaLe zodhIe chIe - tethI ja ApaNe duHkhI thaIe chIe. "je jyAM che, te | tyAMthI ja maLaze - je jyAM nathI, tene tyAM zodhavAthI kadI prApta nahiM ja thAya. ja peTanI bhUkha to kadAca be cAra roTalI-zAka vagerethI saMtoSAI jAya che, paNa sattAnI bhUkha - "Power Hunger" kemeya saMtoSAthI nathI. azAMtinuM mukhya kAraNa A sattAnI bhUkha ja che. deza-deza vaccenA yuddhanuM A ja mukhya kAraNa che. - Do. madhusudana modI Jain Education Intemational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Bhagwaan Mahaveer in the eyes of a poet It is good to forget, it is better to forgive Mahaveer has taught us, 'live O' man, and let live' Mahaveer was human - a great soul, but we turned him into Bhagwaan (God): we should be practicing his principles in our lives, but we positioned them skillfully in the scriptures. we should be installing his spirit in the temples of our hearts, but we ceremoniously installed his marble idols in stony temples his life is venerable, estimable and worth imbibing in practice, but we remain imprisoned in our rituals of prayer and worship of him. English adaptation of Hindi Poem composed by Shri Champa Lal Chordia, Jaipur, India With Best Wishes Ramaben Daftary Gautam, Shweta, Sohum, Shivani, Dallas, TX || zrI yAgazvarAvijayatetarAm // WHAT IS LIFE? Life is a challenge Life is a gift Life is an adventure Life is a sorrow Life is a tragedy Life is a duty Life is a game Life is mystery Life is a song Life is an opportunity Life is a journey Life is a promise Life is a love Life is a beauty Life is a spirit Life is a struggle Life is a puzzle Life is a goal Meet it. Accept it Dare it. Overcome it. Face it. Perform it. Play it. Unfold it. Sing it. Take it. Complete it. Fulfil it. Enjoy it. Praise it. Realise it. Fight it. Solve it. Achieve it. ABOUT LIFE FROM GEETA Best Wishes from Kusum & Bhupendra Master

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 Our Special Thanks To Kanti Shah (President of Tulsa Jain Sangh) We appreciate his dedication, time and efforts to complete the project of building the Tulsa Jain Center and arranging the Pratishtha Mahotsav From: Tulsa Jain Sangh, Inc. Our Special Thanks To Mukesh Shah and Family For providing free space and related expenses for our Old Derasar for the past 12 years since 1993. We appreciate his general contributions towards our vision and goal. From: Tulsa Jain Sangh, Inc. Our Special Thanks To Kishor Mehta For his dedication and support towards finishing construction of Tulsa Jain Center From: Tulsa Jain Sangh, Inc.

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 JAINA Congratulates Tulsa Jain Sangh On its Auspicious Pratishtha Mahotsav Announcing The 13th Biennial JAINA Convention 2005 July 14, 2005 (Silicon Valley - San Francisco Bay Area) Mark your Calendar for next year Plan to take the entire family to beautiful California for a fun filled vacation & attend the convention For further information and announcements, Watch Jain Digest Magazine and website www.jaina.org Convention Board Kirit Daftary, Convener Girish Shah, Co-Convener Anop Vora, Bipin Shah, Hasu Shah, Dilip Punatar, Samprati Shah, Federation of Jain Associations In North America (JAINA) Hosted By Jain Center of Northern California, Milpitas, CA

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 The Present Don't undermine your worth by comparing yourself with others. It is because we are different that each of us is special. Don't shut love out of your life by saying it's impossible to find. Don't set your goals by what other people deem important. Only you know what is best for you. The quickest way to receive love is to give; the fastest way to lose love is to hold it too tightly; and the best way to keep love is to give it wings. Don't take for granted the things closest to your heart. Cling to them as you would your life, for without them, life is meaningless. Don't run through life so fast that you forget not only where you've been, but also where you are going. Don't let your life slip through your fingers by living in the past or for the future. By living your life onc day at a time, you live ALL the days of your life. Don't forget that a person's greatest emotional need is to feel appreciated. Don't be afraid to learn. Knowledge is weightless, a treasure you can always carry easily. Don't give up when you still have something to give. Nothing is really over until the moment you stop trying. Don't use time or words carelessly. Neither can be retrieved. Don't be afraid to admit that you are less than perfect. It is this fragile thread that binds us to each together. Life is not a race, but a journey to be savored each step of the way. Don't be afraid to encounter risks. It is by taking chances that we learn how to be brave. Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery and Today is a gift: that's why we call it - The Present.

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 With Best Compliments From G.M. ANKLESARIA, M.D. FAMILY PRACTICE (918) 251-9698 817 Office Hrs.-By Appointment 817 South Elm Place, Suite 104 Broken Arrow, Ok 74012 With Best Compliments From Manek E. Anklesaria, M.D., Inc. Diplomate, American Board of Ophthalmology 20/20 OPTICAL TULSA EYE CENTER Specializing in Diseases And Surgery of the Eye Eye examinations, eyewear, and contact lenses TEL: (918) 745-2020 2325 S. Harvard, Ste. 307 Tulsa, OK 74114 Jain Education Interational

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 he bhagavAna vipattimAM mArI rakSA karo, e mArI prArthanA nathI, paNa vipattimAM huM bhaya na pAmuM, e mArI prArthanA che. dukha ne saMtApathI citta vyathita thaI jAya tyAre mane sAMtvanA na Apo to bhale, paNa dukha 52 huM vijaya meLavI zakuM evuM ka2jo. mane sahAya na AvI maLe to kAMI nahi paNa mAruM baLa tUTI na paDe, saMsAramAM mane nukazAna thAya kevaLa chetarAvAnuM ja mane maLe, to mArA aMtaramAM huM tene mArI hAni na mAnuM tevuM karajo. mane tame ugAro - evI mArI prArthanA nathI, paNa huM tarI zakuM eTaluM bAhubaLa mane Apajo. mAro bojo haLavo karI mane bhale haiyAdhAraNa na Apo paNa ene huM UMcakI jaI zakuM, evuM karajo. sukhanA divasomAM namra bhAve tamAruM mukha huM oLakhI zakuM, dukhanI rAte, samagra dharA jyAre paga taLethI khasI jAya tyAre tame to cho ja - e vAtamAM kadI saMdeha na thAya, evuM karajo. - ravIndranAtha TAgora This page is donated by Ashok Ranchhod & Family

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* * * WITH BEST COMPLIMENTS ON PRATISHTHA MAHTOSAV HYTEK VISION, LLC 2709 S. 27TH STREET MUSKOGEE, OK 74401 Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 PLANNING TO UPDATE YOUR COMPUTER SYSTEMS, DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR OLD SYSTEMS? WE HAVE THE SOLUTION !!!! WE BUY AND SELL IN WHOLESALE USED, OFF-LEASE, REFURBISHED AND NEW SYSTEMS. LAPTOPS, DESKTOPS, MONITORS AND COMPUTER PARTS IN GOOD WORKING CONDITION KAMLESH AGGARWAL (OWNER/MANAGER) 2709 S. 27TH STREET MUSKOGEE, OK 74401 (918) 260-5286 FAX (918) 686-0587 With Best Wishes on Pratishtha Mahtosav SOONER REALTY PROPERTIES 2709 S. 27th St. Muskogee, OK 74401 Kamlesh Aggarwal Broker/Owner www.hytekvision.com sales@hytekvision.com ka@hytekvision.com If you are looking for your dream home, call Neeru Kurella at 918-409-8910. If you are looking for Investment Properties, Hotel, Motel or any other Commercial Property, call Kamlesh Aggarwal at 918-260-5286 Neeru Kurella Sales Associate

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 kSamApanA he bhagavAna ! huM bahu bhUlI gaye, meM tamArAM amUlya vacaneAne lakSamAM lIdhAM nahIM. tamArAM kahelAM anupama tattvanA meM vicAra karyAM nahIM tamArAM praNIta karelA uttama zIlane sebyu nIM tamArAM kahelAM dayA, zAMti, kSamA ane pavitratA me oLakhyAM nahIM. he bhagavan ! huM bhUlyA, AthaDayA, rajhaLyo ane anaMta sa`sAranI viTambanAmAM paDaye chuM. huM pApI chuM. huM bahu madeAnmatta ane kama'rajathI karIne malIna chuM. he paramAtmA ! tamArAM kahelAM tattva vinA mAre mekSa nathI. huM niraMtara pra5camAM paDaye . ajJAnathI gha thaye chuM. mArAmAM vivekazakti nathI ane huM mUDha chuM, nirAzrita chuM, anAtha chuM. nirAgI paramAtmA ! have huM tamArU', tamArA dhama'nuM ane tamArA muninuM zaraNu grahu chuM. mArA aparAdha kSaya thaI huM te sa'pApathI mukta thae mArI abhilASA che. mAgaLa karelAM pApAnA hu' have pazcAtApa karU chuM. jema jema huM sUkSma vicArathI UMDA utarU chuM tema tema tamArA tattvanA camatkArA mArA svarUpane prakAza kare che tame nirAgI, nivikArI, saccidAnaMdasvarUpa, sahajAna MdI, ataMtajJAnI ana MtadarzI, ane zailekaya prakAzaka che. huM mAtra mArA hitane arthe tamArI sAkSIe kSamA cAhuM chuM. eka paLa paNa tamArAM kahelA tattvanI zaMkA na thAya. tamArA kahelA rastAmAM aherAtra huM rahuM. e ja mArI AkAMkSA ane vRtti thAe ! he sava'jJa bhagavAna ! tamane huM vizeSa zuM kahuM ? tamArAthI kaI ajANyuM nathI. mAtra pazcAtApathI huM kajanya pApanI kSamA Icchu chu. OM zAntiH zAntiH zAntiH satsaMgI bhAi-vheno taraphathI

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Tulsa Jain Sangh Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 samaro-maMtra samaro maMtra bhalo navakAra, eche cauda pUrava no sAra enA mahimAno nahIM pAra, eno artha anaMta apAra // 1 // sukhamA samaro, dukhamA samaro, namaro dina ne rAta jIvatA samaro, maratA samaro, samaro so saMgAya // 2 // jogI samare bhogI samare, samare rAjA raMka devo samare dAnava samare, samare sau niHzaMka // 3 // dAtAra / / 4 / / ar3asaTha akSara ainA jANo, ar3asaTha tIratha sAra ATha saMpadA zrI paramANo ar3a siddhi navapada ainA navanidhi Ape bhava bhava nA dukha kApe vIra vacana thI hRdaya thApe paramAtama pada Ape ||5|| navakAra maMtranA chaMda samaro maMtra bhale navakAra, e che cauda pUravanA sAra; enA mihamAnA nahi pAra, enA a Anata vAra, 1 sukhamAM samarA, du:khamAM samA, sama! divasa ne rAta; jIvatAM samAM, mAM samA, samagra rAha maghAta ra yogI samare, bhogI samaruM, samare rAjA raka rayA mare, dAnava sare, samare mukha nizaMka, 3 aDasa akSara enA jANA, aDasaTha tIratha sAra; A sadAthI paramANAM, aDa siddhi dAtAra 3 navapada enAM navanidhi Ape, savAbhavanAM cIra vacanathI have thAya paramAtama paNa ba kAryo; Ape 5 SAMARO MANTRA SAMARO MANTRA BHALO NAVKAR, YE CHHE CHAUD PURAV NO SAAR. YE NA MAHIMA NO NAHI PAAR, YE NO ARTH ANANT APAAR. SUKH MAA SAMARO, DUKH MA SAMARO, SAMARO DIN NE RAAT. JEEVATA SAMARO, MARATA SAMARO, SAMARO SAU SANGAATH. JOGI SAMARE, BHOGI SAMARE, SAMARE RAAJA RANK. DEVO_SAMARE, DANAV SAMARE, SAMARE SAU NISHANK. ARSATH AKSHAR YE NA JAANO, ARSATH TEERATH SAAR. AATH SAMPADA THI PARMAANO, AR SIDDHI DAATAAR. NAVAPAD YE NA NAV NIDHI AAPE, BHAV BHAV NAA DUKH KAAPE. VEER VACHAN THI HRIDAY THAAPE, PARAMAATAM PAD AAPE.

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With Blessings From The Heart Best Wishes To Tulsa Jain Sangh For A Successful & Grand Pratishtha Mahotsav 2004 From Kantaben, Mukesh, Varsha Ronak, Nimisha Shah & Galaxy Distributing 7813 E. Admiral Tulsa, OK 1-800-678-7665 www.galaxy-1.com Jain Education Intemational

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE TULSA JAIN SANGH ON THIS AUSPICIOUS OCCASION. :- PRATISHTHA MAHOTSAV - NIROANA Diamonds & Fine Jewelry Neal Bhow * neal@nirvanainc.com 4932 East 49th Street * Tulsa, Oklahoma 74135 * (918) 664-8471 www.nirvanainc.com