Jains Today in World

SR No.: 001794
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Pirre Paul AMIEL
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith
Publication Year: 2008
Total Pages: 360
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, History, Religion, E000, & E005
File Size: 24 MB

Page 40

Their Long History : 11 existing differences of birth (jāti), relationships (gotra), local origin, - trades and activities. This led to the creation of religious castes and subcastes that still exist, with strict rules with regard sharing of meals, marriage, etc. These divisions, added to the facts that Jains never proselytised and their ascetics, until recently, neither travelled long distances nor used modern means of transport (car, bus, train, plane), so as not to kill or harm living beings, have been highly prejudicial to the propagation of their faith that in total contradiction with other religions going about enunciating their tenets and recruiting new followers.
Moreover, due to persecutions during various periods of history in India, Jains had often to say they were Hindus. That is especially the case during the census of population in India when people are obliged to mention their creed. In order to avoid problems, many declare they are Hindus, but practice their cult at home. For a very long time, they also concealed their precious manuscripts for fear they be stolen or burned.
All of these elements, along with the fact that it is hard for people who are unaware of religious subtleties to see the differences between Hindu, Buddhist and Jain temples and statues, were causes of ignorance, amalgams and confusions, in the Western world, regarding these three great religions of India.
3. From the end of the Xixth century until today
From the end of the XIXth century onwards, a group of facts were giving its right place to Jainism into the West. First, German, Swiss and French scholars acknowledged that creed as specific. Ernst Leumann, Albrecht Weber, Georg Bühler, Walther Schubring, Helmut Von Glasenap were some of those involved.