JAINA Convention 2001 07 Chicago IL

Author(s): Jain Society of Metropolitian Chicago
Publisher: USA Jain Center Chicago IL

Page 13

Jainism & Ecology
Hyatt Rosemont Ballroom A-B
Fri
3:30 to 4:30 PM
Jaina cosmology and ethics promotes a worldview and practice grounded in respect for all forms of life. Furthermore, Jaina biology extends the definition of life into the elemental realm. For observant Jains, earth, water, fire, and air contain life. In this time of ecological imbalance, Jaina philosophy can be very helpful for thinking in a new way about the interrelationships between various life forms. In 1998, a group of scholars met at Harvard University's Center for the Study of World Religions to discuss ways in which to approach an interface between ecology and Jainism. In this presentation, Dr. Chapple will discuss the potential contribution of Jainism to the emerging field of ecology and religion, summarize some of the various perspective offered at the Harvard conference, and offer some suggestions for a continuing Jaina involvement with ecological ethics.
Haribhadra & Jain Yoga
Hyatt Rosemont Ballroom A-B
Sat
1:30 to 2:30 PM
The Yoga tradition shares with Jainism a commitment to the five great vows and a markedly similar theory of karma. Haribhadra, an eighth century philosopher, sought to explain the path of Jainism in light of Patanjali's eightfold Yoga. He also compared both Jainism and Yoga with Buddhism and Vedanta and provided an interpretation of all four in light of the Umasvati's analysis of spiritual stages (Gunasthanas). Haribhadra attempts to reconcile these spiritual practices through his own unique system of goddess Yoga, in which the various levels of purification gain association with eight Devis. In this presentation, the method of Haribhadra uses in his attempt to understand and harmonize these various paths will be discussed.
32. John E. Cort is an Associate Professor of Asian Religions at Denison University, Granville, Ohio. He was a
lecturer in the study of religion at Harvard University, 1989-92. His areas of teaching include religions of India, Hindism, Buddhism, Jainism, Indian History and Culture. He earned several honors and fellowships including "American Institute for Indian Studies Senior Short-Term Fellowship in 1999-2000. Prof. Cort is active in many professional societies involved with Indian Religion Studies.
Nonviolence in America
Hyatt Rosemont Ballroom A-B
Fri
1:30 to 2:30 PM
The Jains bring with them from India a rich and ancient tradition of nonviolence (ahimsa). The practice and ideology of ahimsa, with its emphasis on personal responsibility, vegetarianism, and concern for non-human lives, has much to contribute to the understandings of nonviolence in the Jains of new North American settings. At the same time, there is a rich and ancient tradition of nonviolent action in North America. This tradition has twin roots in Christianity and western secular traditions. The practice and ideology of nonviolent action, with its emphasis on social justice, resistance to oppression, and speaking truth to power, has much to contribute to the Jain community. This talk will explore the dual heritage of this new confluence of traditions of nonviolence.
33. Prof Cromwell Crowford runs Department of Religious Studies at University of Hawaii. He gave a very
impressive talk at the seventh Jaina Convention in Pittsburgh, in which he mentioned about the need for higher education for Jain studies. As a result, Jain Academic Foundation of North America (JAFNA) was established in 1995. Dr. Crowford has written many articles on Jainism among them is “Philosophy - A tradition which Jains Must Revive and Reinvigorate".
Home Away From Home
| Hyatt Rosemont Ballroom A-B
Fri
2:30 to 3:30 PM
Exploring ways by which the Jain community can both perpetuate its spiritual and cultural values in the Diaspora, and enhance the quality of life in the West.
34. Mr. Jyotindra N. Doshi has been closely connected with Jain Center in Chicago and other Jain Centers in
North America for the last two decades with respect to religious activities, especially as a teacher of religion and yoga-meditation classes.
Gandhi, Jainism & Shrimad (Gujarati) Hyatt Rosemont Ballroom C Practice & Importance of Meditation Hyatt Rosemont Ballroom D (Gujarati)
Fri Sat
3:30 to 4:30 PM 2:30 to 3:30 PM
35. Dr. Kokila Doshi is a Professor of Economics at the University of San Diego. She has published and given
lectures on Jainism and the regional colleges and conferences. She has been actively involved in the educational and cultural activities of the Jain Society of San Diego.
JAINA Convention 2001 Program Book Page #11