Religion and Philosophy of the Jainas

SR No.: 001190
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Virchand R Gandhi
Publisher: Jain International Ahmedabad
Publication Year: 1993
Total Pages: 266
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Philosophy, Ethics, & Principle
File Size: 13 MB

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RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY OF THE JAINAS Form his lectures I have in the present work selected passages and arranged them in such a manner as to give a connected, coherent and systematic account of the Jaina philosophy and religion. I have supplied headings and subheadings to make it clear as to which point is under discussion. The book is divided into four parts for the sake of convenience, though there may be some overlapping.
The first part deals with cultural environment. To understand the Jaina philosophy and religion, one should first acquaint oneself with the spirit of Indian culture. V. R. Gandhi's love for this culture is represented in his speeches, for he speaks with the zeal of a missionary and the reason of an honest scholar. He adores Indian culture. In 'The Jaina Philopophy' he presents an illuminating picture of Indian culture. While giving an account of Indian culture, he utilises Brahmanic, Jaina and Buddhist texts without drawing any distinction between them. For him the basic Indian culture is neither Brahmanic, nor Jaina nor Buddhist. It is Indian. In this context wherever he uses the term Hindu' he uses it in the broad sense of 'Indian'. His treatment of the Brahmanic conception of five great sacrifices (pañcamahāyajña) is instructive and interesting. He gives an impressive account of Indian view of life. He draws a true picture of the social and moral status of ancient Indians. He is particularly conscious of the fact that true strength of India lies in what is moral and spiritual in Indians. He says, “The wonder is that notwithstanding these foreign attacks, India and her people have survived; that notwithstanding the demoralizing influences of foreigners, India still leads in spirituality and morality. Sir T. Munro says, ....and if civilization is to become an article of trade between England and India, I am convinced that England will gain by the import cargo.' ” Again, he quotes Max Muller in his support. Max Muller in his work entitled India - what can It Teach
3.
Those that have been collected and published in two books entitled 'The Jaina Philosophy' (1910 and 1924) and “The Karma Philosophy' (1913 and 1924).