Jain Journal 2000 07

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

Page 41

NEWS ON JAINISM AROUND THE WORLD
The fundamental principle of Jainism is "Ahimsa" and to get into its true spirit, one should have a complete understanding of the "Karma" theory. The Jaina belief in the multiplicity of souls, each one of which is endowed with a consciousness and is the master of his own actions, pious as well as impious, is unique in the sense that the soul has been accredited with and recognised as, an active principle and not merely passive. The soul and matter undergo charge according to circumstances. Both have an eternality.
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Acharya Rajyesh Surishwarji, in a discourse, said, devotees should understand and digest the Sutras and read moral stories. In one such "Charitra" the importance of duty has been pinpointed wherein a couple whose only son (after seven daughters) was due to become King but tradition barred him from occupying the throne as he belonged to a forward community. To enable their son, though born after so late, to serve society through his administrative ability, they "gave him up" from amidst the family so as to turn a member of the ruling community. This decision to sacrifice him was accepted by the wife as according to her, her duty was to obey the husband and her motherly affection did not prevent her from objecting to the new arrangement. Bondage, in this connection, is generated by five factors, viz., falsehood, nonabstinence, carelessness, passion and activities.
Extracts from The Hindu, Chennai July 28, 1997.
Festival of fasting and prayer
Humanity can thrive in amity and live together only when one forgives the faults of others and the latter also ignores the shortcomings of the former. This extraordinary quality of "Forget and forgive" is the main advice tendered by all religions. Members of the Jain community in particular lay greater emphasis on this trait, assiduously cultivating it. They believe that forgiveness is indeed the ornament of the brave. They say that aggression is cowardly and resort to arms represents fear. To bear calamities is courage and to face adversity with fortitude is the hallmark of a wise man.
Equal attention has to be paid according to them to simple life. To be kind and polite should not be mistaken for weakness as they feel that display of physical strength will arouse anger and make others resort to vengeance. When a child kicks its mother, she will in turn caress it. One will be able to appreciate the uniqueness of God when it is understood that He plays the role of such a mother. He showers His grace on all, showing not even an iota of retaliation when people are offensive. Tolerance and self-discipline are important in every man's life.