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Identity - Essential
What is the distinct characteristic or distinguishing mark of the Jaina today? Is it numerous pilgrimages, vast caityas having gold domes and luxury studded marble corridors, or various celebrations at various places? Partly true as related to the grandiose edifices and the idols. The other important distinguishing Jaina mark is not its physical attributes, but philosophical component, outlook and engagement for the betterment of the self and the benevolence of all, and the surrounding ecology with its various manifestations. It is not an assimilation but recognition of compassion, spiritual share for the living, and the care for the environment and the earth. Jaina Women
Today Jaina women are a class of society with significant strength with religiously bent of mind and ready to engage completely. Where, in every field of life they are making advance,they need to fulfill their obligations towards the society in the religious and social spheres. The present demands a full partnership in all horizons of life; to establish and create an environment for religion in the family through foresight and wisdom, and remove traditional barriers. The Jains virtues and values put in place in the family set up in and outside would prepare a brighter and better prospect to the new generation. Equally their role in institutions local, national and international - for human endeavor will ensure a mark being a Jail, 'visible and distinctive, both performingly and functioningly.
Recognizing it as a part of the duty, the enlightened class of the Jaina women in the society educated,knowledgeable and understandable shall rise to the occasion all time and every time to guard and guide the Faith and the community, and perform solemnly as occasion rises.
Jain Education International
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JAIN HERITAGE
Through the ages, the Jains have made great contributions to the cultural heritage of India. In the field of art and architecture how can the exquisite beauty of Mt. Abu and Ranakpur temples be compared. How can the glory of Lor Bahubali, the world's largest monolithic statue, be equalled this grand symbol of victory over ego.
In the field of literature Jain acharyas and scholars have greatly enriched India's literary wealth. According to the time period and region, the scholars adopted various languages Apadhrams, enriching Prakrit, Sanskrit, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu and since the middle ages, Hindi, Rajasthani, Gujarati and Marathi. Vast libraries of manuscripts and notable contributions to religious, yogic, ethical, poetical and scientific literature have been made by Jain scholars throughout India's history.
The philosophy of the Jain tradition is a complete system on metaphysics, spiritualism, mysticism, theology, psychology, ontology, cosmology, epistemology, logic, ethics, sociology and more. Jain philosophy is an ennobling and optimistic one of the soul of man evolving to Godhood when matter no longer has any power over the soul.
Jain established many educational, humanitarian and welfare organizations for the betterment of the society, inspiring the principles of Ahimsa and vegetarianism and spiritual awakening. These services and teachings have made a great impact on India and the world. India is known as a country of peace loving and spiritual people with a strong commitment to non-violence. It is the teachings of the Arihantas from age to age which haveinfluenced the spreading of the doctrine of Ahimsa. Notables such as Mahatma Gandhi, Nehru,
George Bernard Shaw, Aldous Huxley, and more have been greatly inspired by Jain philosophy.
The fruits of the rich heritage of the Jain tradition must be shared with all people. There is now great need for positive affirmations of the Jain philosophy. With the individuals and societies of the world committing themselves to ahimsa, anekantvad, peace, equality and spiritual perfection, the whole of mankind will evolve into a state of harmony within and without.
Best Compliments to JAINA Convention
NEW YORK LIFE
Chandrakant C. Vora
New York Life Insurance Co. 4600 Bobannon Dr. Suite 100 Menlo Park, CA 94025
Bus: (415) 853-6200 Res: (408) 948-1133
Registered Representative for NYLIFE Securities Inc.
7TH BIENNIAL JAINA CONVENTION - JULY 1993 For Private & Personal Use Only
4600 Bobannon Dr. Suite 100 Menlo Park, CA 94025
"Law of Karma belongs the law that the destruction of life brings an evil effect on the doer. Hence do not eat meat and eggs, which caus destruction of life."
-Dr. W.J. Jayasurya
www.jainelibrary.org
