Jainism The Cosmic Vision

SR No.: 006587
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Kumarpal Desai
Publisher: UK Mahavir Foundation London
Publication Year: 2008
Total Pages: 276
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 12 MB

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Jainism: The Cosmic Vision Acharyas themselves conducted a drive so as to keep the Jain gentlemen away from seven vices that is alchoholism, nonvegetarianism, gambling, hunting, theft and keeping harlots. Ultimately this has come to stay as the symbolic life style of Jains through the centuries.
The Jain Sangh has been a democratic system for the last 2600 years, where every individual member of the community is heard and attended to. This democratic functioning amongst the Jains is almost unique.
The social heritage of the Jains is equally remarkable. The inscription of Chittodgadh bears evidence to the fact that Emperor Kumarpal gave donation for Shiva temples. The temples at Sopara constructed by Vastupal refer to a mosque built by Vastupal. Jagdushah gave land to the Muslims. Vijay Vallabhasuriji Maharaj was helpful in the construction of a gurudwara. Buddhisagarji Maharaj provided inspiration for constructing hostel for Harijans.
For world peace, Ahimsa becomes an absolute necessity. It must be practised throughout the world in every city, village and town. Man must be made conscious of the supreme value of his soul and the utter uselessness of destructive weapons and armaments.
Nowadays people seem to think that religion has little importance in modern life, and that it cannot play any significant part in shaping the character of the people. To this, we could say in the words of Joseph Gear, "Those who have lived among the Jains find them very kindly people, and better men because of their religion."
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