ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 04

Author(s): International School for Jain Studies
Publisher: International School for Jain Studies

Page 389

Thus, "Live and let live" encompasses the virtues of tolerance (sahi a uta), coexistence (sahaastitva), compassion (karu ), large-heartedness (Sahridayat ), sympathy (Sah nubhuti), kindness (Day ) and forgiveness (K am ). It is due to the diminishing focus on such attributes that the humanity is drifting towards escalating violence in all walks of life, annihilating terrorism and rapidly disappearing ethical values.
The true essence of the Jain art of living is "be happy and make others happy", and one can be happy only when one makes others happy. The fountain source for the ethical art of living is the trinity of Ahis, Aparigraha and Anek nta. Together in an integrated manner they provide the framework for life ethics. Together they fortify the foundations of synthesis, equanimity and tolerance.
1.6
JAINISM - THE RELIGION OF anek nta
In the search for 'Satya' and in the effort to achieve Samyak Dar ana (Right and Rational perception), Samyak j na (Right and Rational knowledge), and Samyak C ritra (Right and Rational conduct), Jain philosophy lays fundamental emphasis on truth not being absolute, but relative. For gaining access to pure knowledge and wisdom, one needs to rationally take into account multiple arguments, interpretation and view points concerning any issue. One should not proceed that one's point of view is the only correct one. One should not harbour prejudiced and prejudged conception of any reality
c rya Sushil Kumar observes:
"If knowledge is complimented by liberal, impartial and polite outlook, positive inquisitiveness, then it can become the source of tremendous self-confidence. On the other hand if knowledge is accompanied by a narrow, partial, intolerant and uncompromising attitude, then it leads to ethical and moral weakness. The Jain philosophy of Anekant promotes synthesis between conflicting viewpoints, helps in discovering the complete truth, and inculcates in one's knowledge and wisdom elements of liberalism, politeness, tolerance and positivism. For the world of philosophy, Anekant is a great boon."
Simply explained anek ntv da represents multiple views of a reality. It is a doctrine of manifold predications and of relative pluralism. Some one who is a father to someone can also be a husband, son, brother or friend of some one else. All relationships are in their own place. If a person understands multiple aspects of truth, he will realize more fully his multiple duties and responsibilities as well. Thus, in anek nta and sy dv da, we analyze and take into account all possibilities and implications of a given object or a person without changing them. This is indeed the reflection of the theory of relativity and an identification of unity in diversity. Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma, former President of India once observed that:
"Jain concept of anek ntv da is indeed a reflection of a open-minded attitude towards life and its constituent elements. It helps in promoting synthesis and avoids needless conflicts. In a Parliamentary democracy, anek nta assumes relevance because of the existence of a ruling party and an opposition. The work can go on smoothly if the two sides make an effort to understand each other's point of view on a given situation, and endeavour to reach an agreed view based on mutual accommodation and synthesis."
Anek nta concept has considerable global relevance in the world of today often torn with conflicting viewpoints, prejudiced attitudes and desire to impose one's point of view on others. In so far as spiritual orientation is concerned the philosophy of anek nta helps in shaping human thinking based on appreciation of others viewpoints, while searching for the path of truth. Anek nta promotes harmony, tranquility and rational balance in one's thoughts, conduct and expressions.
1.7
JAINISM - RELIGION OF VEGETARIANISM
The foundation of vegetarianism is kindness towards other living beings (Jeev Daya). All life is precious. Why deprive any one from one's right to live only to satisfy one's appetite buds. In the Jain religion, vegetarianism is not just a food habit, but an entire way of life grounded on the concept of
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STUDY NOTES version 4.0