Jain Journal 1974 07

Author(s): Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Page 44

JULY, 1974
To have a clear comprehension of this unique Jaina religion which was the only rationalistic religion, the world ever thought of, the following will be useful:
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I. Man's personality is dual, material and spiritual. The duality of the dead matter and the living principle which animates the human body is evident. There may be differences as to the nature of it; but as to the fact of the duality there cannot be any question. This is in striking contrast with the Hindu doctrine of Brahman, or one, soul which is all and in all.
II. Man is not perfect. He can improve, i.e., he can advance in the direction of perfection. The human soul can attain perfection. In its perfect condition the soul enjoys its true and eternal character, whereof the characteristic is the four infinities; infinite perfection or faith; infinite knowledge; infinite power; and infinite bliss.
III. By this spiritual nature man can and must control his material nature. It is only after the entire subjugation of matter that the soul attains perfection, freedom, and happiness.
It is such a free and happy soul that is called Jina (Conqueror) or Tirthankara (Guide).
IV. The last basic principle of Jainism is this: Man himself, and he alone, is responsible for all that is good or bad in his life.
Jainism, more than any other creed, gives absolute religious independence and freedom to man. Nothing can intervene between the actions which we do and the fruits thereof. Once done, they become our masters and must fructify. As my independence is great, so my responsibility is co-extensive with it. I can live as I like; but my choice is irrevocable, and I cannot escape the consequences of it. This principle distinguishes Jainism from other religions, e.g., Christianity, Muhammadanism, Hinduism. No God or His Prophet for deputy or beloved, can interfere with human life. The soul, and it alone, is directly and necessarily responsible for all that it does.
As to the ancientness of the Jaina religion, its original connection with the Sumerian 'ji' is significant. Dr. H. R. Hall also discerns Jaina traits in Sumerian statues of practically the same ancient period. In Pre-Rg Vedic India, there is no doubt that the Jaina religion was the prevelent religion among the cultured Dravidians from whom the Indian