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causes. They have carefully devised systems of different accounting methods of all such incomes. We are advised that we must give money to various causes. Seven different places or kshetras have been mentioned. Making and installing an idol comes on top of the list1. This was a very good idea when it was formulated. However over the centuries, we have maintained the same thinking, same ideal and same pattern of donating our money. As a result there is always a surplus in temple-funds and less money in other humanitarian accounts.
Questions are being asked now by our young people as most of them think that we ought to change. We do respect the fundamental values and teaching, which are eternal, but we do need to examine certain guidelines, which are related to a particular time or place. At least let us not cultivate fundamentalism over certain ritualistic practices. I use the word fundamentalism here because I have noticed that there are group of people who follow every ritual, every pattern and every advice as to what to eat and how to eat with utmost precision. Not only that they are quick to criticize or condemn others who do not follow such patterns. Every small posture whilst doing certain rituals has to be observed with strict care and precision- they would say. Even a colour or make of your rosary and the cloth (katasanu) you sit on are more important for them then concentrating on God's name.
It is widely noticed that most Christians have accepted the theory of evolution (at least in part) and say that whatever is written in Bible about the evolution, is not the ultimate and final truth. However, some of our Jain scholars still maintain that there are two Suns, which are circling round the earth, and the earth is flat. For them modern concept of astronomy is just not acceptable.
There are many issues and many other points, which one can discuss without arriving at any certain conclusion. One can go on listing many points, which needs to be addressed. But the main point is this: Do we really believe in philosophy of many-sided approach or multiplicity of different view-points (anekantvada)? Are we prepared to listen to others and respect their views as well? If so are we prepared to sit down and have a meaningful dialogue? Are we prepared to re-examine some of the post scriptural advices and be bold enough to challenge them? Let us meet, discuss and explore few things. We have not yet decided who we are and what is the name of the last Tirthankara? Is our religion a Jain religion or Jaina religion? (We do not find two different spellings like Islam or Islama). Who do we believe in: Mahavir, Mahavira, Mahaveer or Mahaveera? Time for a dialogue, if not interfaith then for intra-faith it should be. Michchhami Dukkadam, <>
Seven Kshetras are: Jina-Murti, Jina Dravya, Gyan Dravya, Sadhu Dravya, Sadhvi Dravya, Shravaka Dravya, Shravika Dravya.
14th Biennial JAINA Convention 2007
Jain Education International
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1
Our religion indeed is based on eternal principles like non-violence (Ahimsa),
consideration and acceptance of multiplicity in human thinking and approaches (anekantvada) and non-possessiveness (aparigraha). These are enough, if we understand properly and practice
them
to have a peaceful co-existence and
sustenance of environmental harmony.
PEACE THROUGH DIALOGUE www.jainelibrary.org
