Jainism a Theistic Philosophy

SR No.: 006918
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Krishna A Gosavi
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith
Publication Year: 2012
Total Pages: 358
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 6 MB

Page 205

JAINA CONCEPT OF GOD IN JAINA THEISM
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not find any divinity or need to speculate their God, Paramātmā (Arihanta and Siddhas) to be supreme Gods as creator, sustainer and destroyer.
To sum up, it is observed in Indian philosophy that on the basis of above mentioned arguments, Vedic Brahmana scholar's discriminated against Jainas and classified Jainism as a nāstika religion.
VI (x) Scriptural and Canonical Literature (Agama) Supporting
Theism of Jainism
In order to present Jainism not an atheistic but a theistic school of Indian Philosophy, with a God (Paramātmā) in it, following supporting testimonial arguments from Jaina āgamas and other canonical literature are included as follows:
(1)Ācārānga-Sūtra
Ācārānga-sūtra, which discusses the Jaina metaphysics and especially the nature of the Jiva (Soul), provides number of instances where Mahāvīra has been addressed as God. Moreover, in its 24h chapter; it describes Mahāvīra attaining omniscience and thus attaining Godhood. He is the Jaina God being worshipped by Devas, human beings and others." (2) Upāsakadasānga-Sūtra In this āgama Mahāvīra being addressed as Super human being (Mahā-Mānava) propagator of great religion or great regulator (Mahāgopa Dharmakathika)" and, more over at number of places Mahāvīra has been addressed as Lord."* This āgama deals with many aspects related to the theistic aspect of a religious life e.g. it tells how Lord Mahāvīra is praised and worshiped.
Acārānga-sūtra,991-92-93 and in Dr. Hemant Shah (HS), “Jain Theism”, 1997, P-145 "Upāsakadaśānga-sūtra, (HS, P-145 & 146) 113 lbid, Bhant, Bharite, (HS, P-146)