________________
Introduction to Jainism
which makes it possible to assert and deny the existence of one and the same thing. 163 The doctrine of nayas is supplementary to the doctrine of syādvāda, and in a way is the logical complement to it.164 The essence of the doctrine of nayas is that all ways of judgement are partially true. 165
The doctrine of ahimsä or non-violence is central to Jainism; no religion has laid greater emphasis on it than this creed. The Jaina discipline is very hard. It preaches non-attachment, abstinence from intoxicants, adultery, gambling, hunting, taking food at night, etc. 166 The rituals of Jainism are not as elaborate as Hindu rituals, but they certainly surpass those of Buddhism. 167 The Jainas worship the images of their tīrthamkaras and gods in their temples, and many rites and ceremonies are observed in respect of worship. The Jainas also practise confession of sins before the teacher. 168 Jainism attaches great significance to pilgrimages, and four months in the year are specially devoted to fastings, reading of sacred books and spiritual meditation. Jaina festivals are lavishly celebrated. The Jainas have adopted some Hindu festivals also. 169
Ideals of Jainism
To a large extent Jainism is a direct representative of the ancient Magadhan culture or the stream that was known as Sramanic. 170 This stream stands in sharp contrast to the Brāhmaṇic current of Indian culture. The avowed aim of Jainism is the perfection of man. 171 It holds that every individual soul (jīva) is capable of achieving godhood. It preaches severe discipline, self-control, renunciation and austerity. Jainism respects and glorifies the ascetic. The
163. 164. 165. 166. 167. 168. 169.
OISJ, p. 11. ERE, VII, p. 468. Ibid. JI, p. 9. Ibid., p. 11. Ibid., p. 11; ROAI, p. 128. Ibid., p. 12.
17
