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Table of Contents
Preface
Jai Jinendra, Jainism is a modern word to describe the ancient spiritual path of non-violence. The term Jain comes from the word 'Jina' which means 'spiritual victor'. It designates a person who has completely eliminated or conquered our inner enemies - anger, ego, deceit, greed, fear, attachment, and hatred. The total Jain population is about 6 million in the world, which is less than 1% of the Indian population. In North America, there are an estimated 35,000 Jain families practicing the ancient traditions of this religion. At present there are 67 Jain Centers and about 4000 Jain youth regularly attend the Pathshalas in these centers.
Despite talks of the demise of Jainism due to the spread and acceptance of the Western culture, Jainism still is a widely practiced as a way of life by Jains of North America.
The reason Jainism is still followed by today's youth is not only due to their upbringing, but it is mainly a result of Pathshalas teaching Jain principles and values to our youth throughout North America.
Pathshala gives today's young generation a chance to understand Jainism on their terms and incorporate it in their lives to the best of their ability. Without Jain Pathashala literature available so readily, Jainism would not be ingrained in the lives of the youth today.
In North America, the Young Jain Association (YJA) and the Young Jain Professionals (YJP) organizations plan Jain conventions for Young Jains at national and in their local Jain centers. They organize lectures, exhibitions, culture programs, and plays and bring their unique perspectives to the community. The more educated the youth are about Jainism, the more willing they will be to practice it as well as promote it by establishing even more Jain centers and spreading the great message of Jainism, which are non-violence (Ahimsa), multiplicity of views (Anekantavad) and non-possession / non-possessiveness (Aparigraha). To make our community even stronger for the youth, education in Jainism is necessary, especially at an early age.
Being a Jain 24/7 - Journey Towards a Happy and Peaceful Life
