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JA 15.
2005
discrimination, hatred and greed. Mahavir preached : there is nothing so small and subtle as the atom, nor any element so vast as space. Similarly there is no quality of soul more subtle than non-violence, and no virtue greater than reverence for all life forms"
Jain heritage has found vivid and artistic expression in art, architecture, sculpture and literature. Ancient pilgrimage temples at Sammetshikhar, Pavapuri, Dilwara (Mount Abu), Ranakpur, Palitana, Girnar, Shravanabelgola, Halebid, Moodbidri, Khandgiri, Udaigiri, Kundalpur, Deogarh, Nainagiri are but a few illustrious examples of the rich treasure abodes of Jain religious art and artistry. Ancient Jain idols and artifacts in many museums in U.S.A. and U.K. are marvelous examples of artistic craftsmanship and design while at the same time depicting serenity of detachment and "Veetarag". The Jain agams also cover in addition to spirituality and philosophy, learned texts on sociology, astronomy, astrology, cosmic science, mathematics and fine arts. The invaluable Jain literature in Kannada language and cave inscriptions in prose and poetry is yet to be fully unearthed.
The increasingly universal and globalised presence of Jains in almost all the major continents and more particularly in countries like U.S.A., Canada and U.K as well as Kenya, Uganda and other countries of Africa offers a unique opportunity to spread the Jain heritage of compassion to the humanity at large, which is confronted with the spectre of oppressive and exploitative violence, derogatory discrimination on grounds of sex, caste, colour and creed, and demeaning hatred and tolerance which marks even inter-human relationships. Jain religion and philosophy has a historical opportunity as never before to help in shaping a new world order of ethics. Jains all over the world need to seize this challenge and make the present millennium truly an era of Ahimsa, Aparigraha and Anekant together with changing the mindset of humanity for stable peace, tranquility, equanimity and peaceful coexistence.
JAIN SOCIETY OF ALBERTA, AT HINDU CULTURAL CENTER
ain Heritage in Wester
Extending a
Western Environne
136 Jain Education Interational 2010_03
ntemational 2010_03
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