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Jaina Religon - Universal Relevance in the Contemporary World 99
Conclusion
With its scientific temper, logical perception and ethical approach Jaina Philosophy is of universal relevance in the contemporary world. Jaina principles of non-violence, non-egocentric outlook, ecological perspective, reverence for life in all its forms and vegetarian culture can provide a healing touch to the manifold problems facing human society today in its relation with other living beings and elements of nature.
The principles are not only of continuing validity, but are of particular timely relevance in the world of today when humanity is going on the worng track of unbridled violence and may well end up destroying the entire fabric of rich and advanced civilisation and culture built up through human ingenuity, inspiration and a sense of faith and commitment. The deeply compassionate principles of Jaina religion and their practice can meaningfully help search for sustained peace, safe environment and sustainable development, curbing violence and terrorism, fear and suspicion, hatred and hostility, inculcating the practice of restraint over the indiscriminate pursuit of materialism and above all serving more whole heartedly the underprivileged, handicapped and the utterly deprived living beings.
There is a refreshingly welcome impact of Jaina philosophy beginning to make itself felt on the world community -on whosoever come in thuch with it, be they followers of Jaina religion or not. The realisation is growing that its principles make Jaina religion a religion of humanity.
Human life is but a small passing phenomenon in the vast eternity of space and time and the grand complexion of the entire cosmos. It has been rightly said:
"I expect to pass through this world but once; any good, therefore, that I can do, any kindness that I can show to any fellow creatures, let me do it now - for I may not pass this way again."
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