Jainism in a Global Perspective - Collection of Jain papers of 1993 Parliament of World Religions, Chicago

SR No.: 014010
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Sagarmal Jain, Shreeprakash Pandey
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith
Publication Year: 1998
Total Pages: 402
Language: English
Classification: Seminar & Articles
File Size: 23 MB

Page 332

Can Jainism Survive in the 21st Century
303
Study of Scriptures
For in the hustle and bustle of modern life, it is unlikely that anyone will be able to make a committed and detailed study of the philosophy especially on one's own. Even if one does embark on such a mission, noone else will be available to answer the questions and doubts, which may arise during one's study. This will lead to confusion and frustration which will result in abandoning the study of something so earnestly begun. It therefore, appears that the philosophy willexist only as an adornment in the scriptures, with everyone acknowledging its existence, but few ever sparing the time or energy to learn what is in them.
In such a situation, even the acknowledgement of the scriptures will decrease with each successive generation, for there is no point in remembering something from which you derive no positive benefit. There thus arises the danger that Jainism will not survive in the 21st century.
In many ways Jainism is already on the brink of extinction. Ishall cite an example.
The Halari Oshwals have been followers of the Jaina faith for many centuries. In search of better economic conditions, many migrated from India to other continents. The majority prospered in the economic field, but this economic prosperity was not accompanied by spiritual prosperity. They still call themselves Jainas, but many have little knowledge of what their religion teaches them.
My own experience has been with the younger generation of Oshwals settled in the UK and Kenya. Some would not think twice about eating meat or hurting others, even though Ahiṁsā is the cardinal doctrine of Jainism. Many would not think twice about lying, although Satyāgraha is another great virtue identified with a Jaina.
Unless community leaders step up the effort to bring Jainism to the Jainas, it is inevitable that Jainism will die out in the 21st century, especially among the Jaina communities away from the sub-continent.
Many Jaina youths have told me that they would like to find out more about Jainism, but do not know where to turn. Performing rituals without understanding the background philosophy has become a common practice