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JAIN JOURNAL : VOL-XLI, NO. 2 OCTOBER 2006
this natural law we can integrate the nation and as well as mankind. It is the law of mutual co-operation on which the institutions of family and society stand. This concept of co-operation is a positive aspect of Jaina theory of non-violence. At present it is only the firm faith in the observance of non-violence, which can save the human race from disintegration. It is mutual credibility and belief in the equality of human beings which can restore the peace and harmony in human society.
Religious tolerance in Jainism :
Religious intolerance and sectarianism are also responsible for disintegration of mankind as well as nation. If we are inclined to human solidarity and national integration then, we should develop the concept of religious tolerance and religious co-existence and should give up the idea that my religion is the only way to aproach the ultimate.
Jaina religion since its inception till modern age has been tolerant and respectful towards other faiths and religions. The Jaina Ācāryas while opposing the different ideologies and religious standpoints, paid full regard to them and accepted that the opponent convictions may be valid from a certain standpoint. Their well-known theory of Anekāntavāda or Non-absolutisin is the base of religious tolerace, if viewed from two different angles, according to this theory, both contrary views may be relatively true.
· The Jaina thinkers accept that reality is a complex one. 13 The reality, which has many facets, various attributes and modes, in its completeness it can not be grasped by us. It can only be viewed and understood from different angles. While every angle or viewpoint can claim that it gives a true picture of reality, each one only gives a partial and realitive picture. On the basis of this partial and relative knowledge of reality, one has no right to discard the views of one's opponents as totally false. So the Truth-value of opponents, according to the Jaina thinkers, must be accepted and respected. This pragmatic view of the Jaina made them open-minded and consequently tolerant.
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Anyayogavyavacchedika, (Hemcandra)22
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