Gems of Jainism

Author(s): Hemant Shah
Publisher: Academy of Philosophy

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Jainism In Indian Philosophy
power, infinite knowledge, infinite bliss and infinite happiness which are the qualities of God. Thus we find God, of course a different concept of God, in Jainism which is worshiped by the Jainas most devotionally and that makes the religion of Jainas Theistic. I would like to say a few words here about Jain Theism. Jainism has its own ethics and a prescribed method of Sadhana or worshiping the God - the enlightened soul; Jainas call them Tirthankaras or Siddhas. The Theism of Jainism can be proved through its canonical literature as well as its actual practice. Like any religion Jainism is very rich in its theology as well as mythology just like its philosophy. A detailed proof and explanation of the concept and nature of Jain Theism (read Jain Theism in this book) is unique not only in Indian Philosophy but in the world Philosophy.
Jainism, in Indian philosophy, has touched every aspect of human activities, mental, physical and spiritual. In this context we should also consider Jainism as solutions to World Problems. The teachings of Lord Mahavira in particular and of Jaina religion in general are very relevant in todays world. The values in Jainism (read an article on values in Jainism for the Modern World in this book) are rooted in day to day practice i.e in āchāra. These values can save the world and pave the life of peace and purity. What the unique contribution of Jainism to Indian Philosophy - to World philosophy is its concept of ahimsā. Ahimsa is not simply nonkilling. It is complete non-hurting physically, mentally and vocally. The theory of non-absolutism i.e. anekantvada in one's thinking and the concept of Ahimsa in one's feeling generates Equanimity and Compassion. Anekanta in thought (in vichār) and Ahimsa in deeds (in āchār) make life peaceful, and loving. According to the author of this article, even if Jainism would not have any salient feature but these two, it would have been sufficient for it to hold an unique place in Indian Philosophy.
Let me end with a few words on “Jainism through sciences". Recent articles based on Jain Scriputres and researchers reveal Scientific secrets of Jainism. Albert Einstein, in his article entitled