Jain Journal 2004 01

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

Page 6

JAIN JOURNAL
Vol. XXXVIII
No. 3 January
2004
JAINA PLURAL PERSPECTIVE : A HANDY RESOURCE TO THE MINISTRY OF DIALOGUE AND RECONCILIATION
Vincent Sekhar, S.J.
Introduction : Religion and society constantly shape each other in histroy. Otto Maduro,' a renowned sociologist, contends that it is mainly the structure of the society that will define what forms of religious or moral activity that is beneficial for them to develop. In a class/caste structure, the dominant class develops and exercises its material power in the economic, political, military, moral, educational, literary, artistic and religious spheres. It will also have the material means to achieve their interest with good chances of success.
Such a dynamics normally leads to polarisation of groups against one another, resulting in hidden and open conflicts, and even violence. Religions play at times an ambiguous role in class/caste society. But the same religion has a moral force to unite its followers under several banners. The gods and goddesses, their worship and other rituals and celebrations gather people, provoke a relationship, even urge them to live in harmony and peace. It awakens humans to what is good and correct, eliminating evils in individual and society. A society that is conscious its religious dimension can creatively engage in its own integral development and overall welfare.
Building up a New Humanity and creating a New Environment seems to be the major aim of all religions. But every religion has its own focus and basic ethos. For instance, Jaina Dharma upholds the sanctity of life and urges that life should be preserved and promoted. Jainism, sometimes known as the Religion of Ahimsā, has given new thrust and meaning to this vital principle particularly in the social and
1.
Otto Maduro: Religion and Social Conflicts, (trans.) from the Spanish by Robert R. Barr, Orbis Books, Maryknoll, New York, 1982, p. 41-43, 66-67, 75-77