World Jain Conference 1987 4th Conference

SR No.: 014038
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Satish Jain, Kamalchand Sogani
Publisher: Ahimsa International
Publication Year: 1987
Total Pages: 202
Language: English
Classification: Seminar & Articles
File Size: 7 MB

Page 27

submission to the will of the evil doer, but it means the putting of one's whole soul against the will of the tyrant and still without any ill-will against him. Non-violence is not only the absence of bloodshed or murder, it is also the absence of exploitation. Non-violence and exclusive possession can never go together. In the 21st century, we have to make non-violence, not a matter of more individual practice, but also a matter of practice by groups and communities and nations. It is surprising that man has continued to slaughter animals ruthlessly for his benefit and selfish reasons. It is regrettable that in the land of Mahavira and Buddha and Gandhi heartless cruelty to animals is being perpetrated in the name of food, fashion, fun, fancy, scientific research, sports and the so called industrial progress. This should be prevented by proper legislative measures and by promoting compassionate attitude towards animals. It is of great importance to note that vegetarianism seems to be the only choice for a better and disease-free world. Even for the sportsman vagetarian diet offers better physical strength and endurance. Also on economic considerations, vegetarianism is the only choice for people all over the world. There is no other choice if one wants better ecological balance. In consequence, the world-wide movement for vegetarianism is the need of the time.
In the field of Art and literature, the contribution of Jainas is tremendous. The Jaina contribution to Indian Art is both substantial and significant and can never be overlooked by a serious student of Indịan Art. Jainas possess an enviable variety of literature written in diverse forms and styles in almost all the ancient and mediaeval languages and on almost every branch of learning. Take for example, the Rama-literature. Some 250 works are known to have been produced by Jaina writers on or relating to the Rama theme, of which 25 are in Prakrit, 71 in Sanskrit, 22 in Apabhramsa, 82 in Hindi, 17 in Kannada, 2 in Tamil and 2 in Urdu. For preserving the literature, Jainas have created manuscript libraries in different parts of the country. The manuscript libraries at Moodbidri Jain Math (South India) are of great historical importance. The sacred volumes of Dhavala are in Moodbidri. Pilgrims from all parts of the country actually adore these volumes. Among the centres of Jaina culture, Bihar occupies a very significant place. It has been the salvation - place of twenty two Tirthankaras. It has witnessed the rise of democratic and parliamentary traditions in Vaisali. Here the Universities of Nalanda and Vikramasila and Vidyapithas of Visvamitra Asrama and Mahasalvana have flourished. It is famous for the literary, philosophical and religious activities of Patliputra (Patna). The renowned Jaina saint-philosopher Umasvati composed his famous work "Tattvarthasutra" at Patliputra (Patna). Lord Mahavira gave his first sermon at Vipulacala of Rajagrha Hills after sixty six days of the attainment of Kevalajnana. He delivered his sermons in Ardhamagdhi