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An Interpretation of Jaina Ethics*
While judging of Modern Western Civilization, the India is generally full of admiration for our wonderful technical advancement and perfect scientific methods, still, his praises often terminate in a bitter complaint as to our apparent materialistic conception of life. He should not forget, however, that his apparent materialistic conception of life is not a consequence of racial character, but one of cultural development.
It is true that our intellect is, at present, absorbed in technical and scientific problems; but, only a few centuries ago, it was so in the problem of how best to win the grace of God.
It is true that, when we sing or play music, we generally do so for our own pleasure; but, only a few centuries ago, we used to display our musical talents mostly in the praise of God.
It is true that, when we paint, we paint human passions and postures, visions and natural scenes; but, only some centuries ago, our art of painting was nothing but a fervent glorification of "God Father" and Christ, and Madonna.
It is true that, when we travel, we do so ( leaving business travels apart) for our pleasure, or for our health's sake, or we undertake dangerous expeditions for the sake of study; but, a certain time ago, we used to make the long and troublesome pilgrimage to Jerusalem, in order to worship at the Holy Sepulchre of Christ, and to protect it from the Saracens.
And it is true that our studying and teaching has all worldly ends, and that our Professors and scholars want nothing but find out,
* A Lecture by Dr. Charlotte Krause. Published by Phulchandji Ved, Secretary Shri Yashovijaya Jaina Granthamala, Bhavnagar (Kathiawar), 1929.
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