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PREFACE
The references of Śramana culture found in Vedas and other texts of Vedic culture indicates the existence of it at the time of compilation of Vedas. The archaelogical material found in the excavation of Mohan-jodāro supports this view.Jain culture is an integral part of Śramana culture and its Tirthankaras and Acāryas influenced a lot to Indian culture. Practically there is no field of knowledge in Indian tradition where we do not feel its effect. The holy Jain Tirthas, Temples, Sculptures, Idols, Manuscripts are spread throughout the country and they are very valuable assets of our rich culture heritage. Jain temples and idols have there antic and sculptural values. Jain Acāryas contributed a lot in the field of Grammer, Ayurveda, Astrology, Astronomy, Mathematics, Literature etc. The proper assessment of there contributions increases the beauty of Indian culture.
In my opinion, assessment of Indian contributions in any field of knowledge can not be made properly without estimating Jain contributions. Hence basic and introductory knowledge is essential for every scholar of Indology. To meet out this requirement of scholars of Indology and beginners of Indological studies this book was prepared by Pt. Balabhadraji Jain with the inspiration of Sri Ajit Kumar Singh Kasliwal, Treasurer Kundakunda Jñanapìtha and Trustee - Digambar Jain Udasin Ashram Trust.
The present book contains nine chapters entitled I and My Life, Various Religions and Syādvāda, Jain Religion and Worship of Virtues, Code of Conduct for Laiety, Theory of Karma, Jainism from Realm of Enjoyment (Bhogabhūmi) to Bhagavana Mahavira, Our Acāryas, Pilgrimages and Images, Jain Religion and Science & Problems and Solutions.
In English translation we have made certain changes in ch. 2, 6, & 9. The portion related to other Vedic and non-Vedic philosophies (other than Jain philosophies), Ancient and modern religions, sects and faiths in ch. 2 and material related to Democracy, Socialism, Capitalism, Dictatorship etc. in ch. 6 have been deleted because it do not have much relationship with the contents and purpose of the present book. Simultaniously to
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