JAINA Convention 2007 07 Edison NJ

Author(s): Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA

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due to ISCON, Maharshi Mahesh Yogi etc. Gita is now widely quoted by non-Hindus. Within the past 50 years, the missionaries have made Christianity the most popular faith in Korea, leaving Buddhism behind.
Jain teachings have what the world today seeks - principles like Ahimsa, Compassion, Vegetarianism, and Tolerance. Unfortunately these have been hijacked by others. Jains must use modern methods to reach people beyond the confines of the Jain community. We need to make it possible for the new generation of Jains to acknowledge their identity proudly. They should be able to discuss Jainism with non-Jains and explain why this ancient tradition is relevant today
In the 25 centuries after Lord Mahavira, we have turned to the Scriptures Vina-Vani) for guidance, and to the monks and nuns for leadership. The Jain Temples have served not only as a center for worship, but also as symbols and anchors for the dharma. Devoted shravakas, through their support for Jain institutions and practices have supported survival of Jainism. There has been extensive temple building in recent years, however there is a feeling that the Temples alone will not preserve Jainism. It is essential to preserve Jain Learning and prepare competent scholars who will teach Jainism for the future generations of Jains and non-Jains
The ISSJS program: It was initiated in 2005 and involves hosting a group of carefully selected scholars, mainly professors and graduate students in North America, for two months in Summer in India. They go through an intensive two month academic program on Jainism including philosophy, social aspects, rituals and pilgrimage. They are provided with opportunities for interaction with scholars, monks, nuns and practitioners of Jainism. The program is designed to be applicable to academic studies in North America and other overseas universities. After returning, ISSJS encourages and supports the scholars to carry out research and curriculum development in Jain Studies.
Jain teachings have what the world
today seeles - principles like Ahimsa,
Compassion, vegetarianism, and tolerance. Unfortunately
these have been hijacked by others. lains must use modern
methods to reach people beyond the confines of the Jain
community
2005 ISSJS Award Ceremony
The ISSJS approach for promoting Jain studies is novel and is designed to be cost effective. Another approach of establishing a Jain Chair at a major university was considered at the beginning. However the cost of setting up an endowed Chair is prohibitive for the small Jain community. Its benefits tend to be localized and often it can take a long time to establish. In addition,
14th Biennial JAINA Convention 2007
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PEACE THROUGH DIALOGUE
Jain Education Intemational