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Jainism (in Czech language)
About the author
Otakar Pertold
Otakar Pertold (21.3.1884 Jaromer-3.5.1965 Prague), was a Czech indologist, historian of religion and ethnologist. He was the first professor of religion on the Charles University in Prague. He wrote many books on religions, especially eastern ones. He was very fond of Jainism and wrote this book with great admiration. Thanks to him the "Oriental-ni Ustav v Praze" has most of the Jain scriptures in Ardhamagadhi.
He wrote also other books on India. Some of his books of travel contain precious ethnographical materials from remote localities and aboriginal Indians which has still been waiting to be discovered (and translated).
About the book
Although the book was written in 1930s it still has something to contribute to the topic of Jainism. His approach is very meticulous and careful describing even the smallest details.
It mention the origin of Jainism, establishing and history of the early tirth, the Jaina way of purification, Anekantavad, syadvad, ethics (anuvrata, mahavrata), daily life and rituals of the four folded tirth.
The titles of the chapters look very west-like but the message is transferred with deep inner understanding
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