Glory of Jainism

Author(s): Kumarpal Desai
Publisher: 108 jain Tirth Darshan Trust

Page 21

being the books written by the Jaina saints. Moreover, the unique service of the Jain Bhandaras in preserving the manuscripts, especially those on palm-leaves, is very memorable. Besides book-writing, the Jaina have carried out the laudable task of preserving and spreading knowledge.
The Jainas were also great patrons of art. Indian art, both Northern and Southern, owes to them a number of remarkable monuments. And in architecture their achievements are still greater.
As singular edifices illustrating the beauty of Jaina art, both in design and elaboration of workmanship, one may cite the temples of Mount Abu.
In South India, too, idol worship and temple building on a grand scale may be attributed fianlly to Jaina influence. The colossal monolithic Jaina statues of the South, such as that of Gomateshvara at Shravan Belgola, are among the wonders of the world. The grandeur of Jain sculpture is an outstanding aspect of Jain heritage. The inspiring dignity of Shatrunjay temples, the stately vastness of Shravan Belgola, the fine subtleties of Ranakpur tirtha and the artistic carvings of Delvada temples - are some of the unique examples of the Indian Cultural heritage. The Jaina literature is written in several Indian languages so as to reach many people is a rich compendium of diverse interests. The writings of these acaryas have manifold attractions not only for those in Jaina studies but also for lovers of literature, history, culture, philosophy, and comparative religion. It is to this vast source that we now turn for an understanding of Jaina beliefs of the universe, religion and mortality.
It was however, at the hands of Shalivahana the great artist who flourished in the reign of the connoiseeur of art, the Mogul Emperor Jehangir that Jaina art of painting attained its glory. In the private collection of Shri Narendra Singh Singhi of Calcutta, there is a manuscript Shalibhadracharita illuminated by this artist with more than 20 paintings, some of which are superbly executed. Jainism has thus significantly enriched Indian culture in the fields of ethics, philosophy, literature, science and aesthetics.
Lord Mahavir emphasized that man should not only care for the welfare and advancement of his soul but also help the soul of all sentient beings towards the same goal by giving them protection and by helping them to march forward on the path of salvation. He who loses his soul, loses everything.
Self-help and self-reliance constitute the basic motto of Jain religion. According to the Jain religion, 'Atma' is the creator of weal and woe: the notion of exploiting others by way of labour does not occur in this system. One of the twelve vows of a Jain Shravak specifically mentions that he would never expropriate others means of livelihood. One has to appreciate the inner meaning and spirit of such preaching.
In a book entitled "Dharmabindu Prakaran" Haribhadrasuri has enjoined upon the Jain Shravak to make his living in a judicious way. The Sadhu way of life is the climax of the self-reliant life style of the Jaina.
The Jaina have a rich political heritage. There were Jaina Kings like Chola King in the South and Kumarpal in Gujarat. And their royal counsellor or the minister always happened to be a Jain Shravak. This was the tradition in Gujarat and Rajasthan generation after generation. Alongwith administration, these ministers always kept in mind the welfare of the state and enjoyed the total confidence of the rulers. The Jain Shravakas also always remained trustworthy and honest and never betrayed anybody. The names of Vastupal-Tejpal, Vimalshah and Udayan Mantri have become immortal for their royal devotion and religious steadfastness.
The life style of the Jain Shravak is also remarkable. When the Kings were given to amorous pastime, drinking and gambling, it is noteworthy that the Jain community could remained aloof from all these vices. It was because of their strong will power, moral devotion and honesty that Jain Shravaks were appointed as Ministers by the