Essence of Jainism

Author(s): Sukhlal Sanghavi
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad

Page 83

Heart of Jain Culture
59
Jores! The Saṁskāras such as those of initiation-Yajñopavita, which bad originally ro relation with Jain culture became a part of it in south India in the middle ages. For this purpose, a class of purohitas found a permanent place in the Jaina tradition as with the Brāhmaṇa tradition. Rituals that precisely imitated sacrifices etc., also entered the ceremonies. All these and many other small and big things happened because the Jaina tradition and culture had to protect those of its followers who had come from other cults, or those who could not protect themselves from the thoughis and conduct of other sects.
Let us now examine in brief how the Jaina culture influenced others. Actually as a doctrine, Jainas believe in compassion towards al beings as others do. But the emphasis that the Jainas laid on protection of animals and the great enthusiasm with which they have worked on it had far-reaching consequences in the historic age. Wherever Jainas influenced one or the other sphere of society, whenever they did this, a strong impact was laid on the common man regarding protection of animals. This happened to such an extent that in many parts of the country those common men who proclaimed to be non-jains or believed themselves to be opponents of Jainism also started entertaining a dislike towards violence to all living beings. It is due to tbis impact of non-violence that the thinking and conduct of so many ron-jain traditions such as the Vaişşava have completely severed themselves from the ancient Vedic tradition, The same thing happened in the matter of austerity. All persons, be they recluses or householders, stoop towards Jaina austerity - tapasyā. This had so much of impact on the neighbouring societies that they too adopted so many Sättvika austerities. Generally the common society had great regard and respect for the Jaina tapasyā, to such an extent that being attracted by it, even muslim emperors and their other able officers have greatly respected it, bave given several facilities to the Jainas.
The Jainas have tried very hard to bring an end to or to lessen the seven addictions wine, meat etc. The effort went to such an extent with the Jainas that they were enabled to impart good. samskäras on so many races that were drowned in these addictions.