World Jain Conference 1995 6th Conference

SR No.: 014040
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Satish Jain
Publisher: Ahimsa International
Publication Year: 1995
Total Pages: 257
Language: English, Hindi
Classification: Seminar & Articles
File Size: 23 MB

Page 104

Chandanbala, Jayanti and others accepted the lifelong vow of celibacy by rejecting the married life. In view of the prevailing traditions and circumstances, it was considered inevitable in those times for women to live a married life. But Jain religion has left such a personal issue of marriage to the discretion of women, a woman may herself decide whether to marry or not. If she felt that the unmarried way of life was better for her effective religious pursuits, she was entitled for 'DIKSHA without getting married.
At the "SAMVASARAN' (gathering for preaching) of Bhagvan Mahavir, women enjoyed as much freedom as did men. They attended such gatherings without any restraint or restriction, listened to the preachings and satisfied their curiosity by publicly asking questions as in the case of Jayanti who settled her doubts by raising questions.
Thus, the role of women in Jain religion has been very progressive and ennobling on the whole. As mothers they have given birth to ‘Tinhankaras', as wives they have provided inspiration to their husbands; as individuals they have managed large trade and commerce independently. In the Jain way of life, woman has always been bold enough to protect her chastity and defeat the enemy. Her learning has for ever been honoured everywhere. Sadhvis have set an example for the society in matters relating to the ultimate achivement of spiritual progress. The liberation of women, the freedom of women and the advancement of women are integrated in Jain religion. These principles are sure to guide and lead the people in the ensuring decades towards the new path of attainment of the liberty of women.