________________
Vol. XXXV
JAIN JOURNAL
No. 3 January
Jain Education International
THE JAINA WAY OF LIFE
DULICHAND JAIN
Introduction
We are living in a scientifically and technically advanced world divided into "Developed", "developing" and the "Under-developed" regions. A keen competition is going on everywhere. Only a few are thriving and prospering, whilst a majority of people lead a life of scarcity, want and impoverishment. There is tension, worry and unhappiness in the life of every one. Mr. F.L. Lucas, an English critic said, "Many a time, after pondering, I am amazed that some day the human civilisation would come to an end, not by an atom bomb, or famines or any such means, but it would come to an end by man's own intellect and deterioration of self-control in the midst of the tension of the highly artificial civilisation."
Role of religion
Under these circumstances we have to examine, how Jain religion can play a positive role in mitigating the sufferings of the common people. Jainism is one of the oldest religious traditions of the world. A long generation of Tirthankaras, Acāryas, saints and scholars belonged to this tradition. Lord Mahavira was the twenty-fourth Tirthankara of the present era. Mahāvīra, born with no supernatural powers, rose by dint of his determination, self-discipline, compassion, forbearance and other qualities of heart to the highest position among men and acquired the status of a Tirthankara or omniscient.
2001
Mahavira and his Teachings
Lord Mahavira observed rigorous austerities spread over for twelve and a half years till he achieved kevala-jñāna (omniscience) which was his aim behind initiation in the ascetic order. He faced many adversities and calamities brought upon by natural and supernatural forces during this period. In the thirteenth year of his ascetic order, he
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
