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JAINA CONVENTION 2009 EDITORIAL
Reflecting on the theme of the 15th Biennial JAINA Convention, "Ecology - The Jain Way", it is worthwhile to take note of Dr. L. M. Singhvi's observation, "Jainism is fundamentally a religion of ecology and has turned ecology into a religion."
aina 2009
logy-The Jains Way
In these challenging times, core Jain principles of Ahimsa, Aparigraha, and Anekantvad, identify a framework of responsibilities, challenges, and opportunities to support ecological harmony through non-violence not only towards humans but towards all nature; reducing wants and waste through non-possessiveness; and respect for others including earth, environment and nature through non-absolutism. Lord Mahavir identified the fundamental phenomenon of mutual dependence: "One who neglects or disregards the existence of earth, air, fire, water and vegetation disregards his own existence which is entwined with them." The ancient Jain scriptural maxim Parasparopagraho jivanan all life is bound together by mutual support and interdependence is refreshingly contemporary in its premise and in its promise. Jainism is indeed a religion of ecology.
The biennial JAINA convention provides a unique opportunity for delegates to celebrate their heritage, gain new knowledge, and revive their spiritual aspirations. In support of such goals, a wide range of articles are included in this commemorative souvenir. As we tread the path of the religion of ecology, several spiritual, theoretical, and practical expositions remind us of our responsibilities as practitioners, proponents, and agents-of-change for ecofriendly lifestyle and sustainable living. Jain doctrines concerning Ahimsa and ecology that lead to vegetarianism and not using animal products are discussed. Jain tradition of establishing paanjarapols and promoting jiv daya is re-affirmed with inspirational stories of two such facilities in USA. Jain youth's activism, awareness and advocacy of "Go Green" movement and animal rights are illustrated. Two poems remind us that we are "merely guests on this planet" and "all one day can be free." JAINA's initiative of Jain Diaspora promotes global unity through a novel concept of Jains Without Borders.
The hosting of the 15th Biennial JAINA Convention in Los Angeles is a homecoming event, since JAINA was conceived and founded in Los Angeles in 1981. The founding of JAINA is recorded here with the publication of historical photos of that remarkable event.
Finally, Dr. Dipak Jain, a keynote speaker at this convention, points out that "Jainism offers the resources and the path to reflect on what matters most, and then to renew ourselves as we set upon the journey of making ourselves, and the world, better." Let us all resolve to live, act and contribute responsibly.
The Souvenir Committee is grateful for the responsibility and opportunity to produce this publication. The experience has been enlightening except for one regret - having to exclude some of the articles due to space constraints. For this, and inconsistencies and errors in the publication, if any, we offer our sincere Michhami Dukkaddam. The articles presented here express the views and opinions of the respective authors for which, no responsibility, expressed or implied, is assumed by JAINA and its volunteers.
Chandrakant Parekh (Chair) cparekh1@yahoo.com
Rishita Dagli Dilip Parekh
Jayana Shah
Darshini Althal Debi Grand
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Pallavi Gala Harsha Parikh
