Gems of Jainism

SR No.: 001803
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Hemant Shah
Publisher: Academy of Philosophy
Publication Year: 2008
Total Pages: 142
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Articles, & Religion
File Size: 8 MB

Page 5

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They have been written at different time, for different people at different places. The reader might find some repetition, mainly in general introduction. I am sure reader will be generous enough to pardon me for this. Moreover, often, considering the august audience of learned professors and scholars, unnecessary explanation or the narration has been avoided. The quest to know more, however, could be satisfied by referring books as suggested at the end of each article as 'selected Bibliography'.
America's 'Philosopher for Everyman', Martimer J Adler says, "Titles of Books are often misleading; sometimes they are inaccurate.” The title of this book is though not misleading, it needs clarification. As most commonly used, I have used the word 'gems' for invaluable precious ideas or thoughts. Jainism, being very rich in its literature, contains innumerable such gems. Reader will find here some of the gems (great ideas) out of many gems one finds in Jainism. A completely accurate title would have been “Some of the gems of Jainism". I trust the reader will understand the shorter title in the light of my clarification.
Considering learned readers who might not have sufficient knowledge of Indian Philosophy in general or Jain Philosophy in particular, I have included an article on “Jainism in Indian Philosophy in the very beginning of the book. I am sure it will enlighten the reader about both: the Indian Philosophy and the Jain Philosophy. Of course, the said article is primararily an introductory one, however, it is sufficient to lead one's interest towards the deeper and the higher thoughts that prevail in Jainism.
I also wish to carry out a pleasant duty of thanking those who have proved to be the source of inspiration for this publication. First of all thanks to my professors and friends who were with me in my pursuit for philosophy. I also appreciate positive, constructive and encouraging comments and suggestions from the members of “Gujarat Tattvajnana Parishad” (Philosophical Congress of Gujrat) and “Tattva - Darshan”. I am also grateful to my wife, Janki, and my daughter, Vaishali and my brothers and sisters for their theistic