Gems of Jainism

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

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Gems of Jainism
When we find cruelty and killing everywhere Ahimsā (non-violence) becomes relevant, when we find lust for material gain and a blind rush for wealth and riches Aparigraha (non-possession) becomes relevant, when we find people lost in sensual pleasure Brahmacarya (celibacy) becomes relevant, when we find disturbed econogy and animals as well as birds are killed for human luxury and comforts, Jaina's philosophy of Soul becomes relevant; when we find people or families or nations fighting with each other on superiority or inferiority grounds. Jainism's teaching : 'caste, not by birth but by deeds' becomes relevant, when we find women neglected by men and treated as inferior, we find Jaina's doctrine that all souls (male as well as female) are equal, becomes very relevant. When here is a disagreement, a conflict and differences Jaina's theory of anekānta (non-absolutism) becomes relevant. If we want people to live with peace, understanding and broadmindedness; people to live with Love, compassion and friendship, people to live like a hero fighting not with others but one's own vices and becomes a Jina (a conqueror), if we want people to live with tolerance, simplicity and humility - for all these we find the Jaina values soundly relevant. The Jaina religion, philosophy and values preached have remained, still remain and shall ever remain relevant to mankind.