Jain Spirit 2003 06 No 15

Author(s): Jain Spirit UK
Publisher: UK Young Jains

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Q&A OUD
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Sadhvi Shilapiji answers the questions of today
What is the Jain view on divorce?
According to Jain history, Tirthankara Bhagwan Rishabhdev introduced the institution of marriage in order to bring system and culture into the community. Marriage is thus thought to be highly sacred and pious, and the relationship between husband and wife is considered to be pure and elevated. By entering into marriage, a husband and wife agree to very special responsibilities toward each other in both their physical and spiritual development. The importance of this relationship is clearly demonstrated in various stories presented in the Jain scriptures. According to some accounts, even Tirthankara Mahavir became involved in helping to resolve the marital disputes of his disciples because of the hallowed importance he placed on the sanctity of marriage.
Thus, Jainism guides its followers to maintain and respect the institution of marriage. Indeed, of the twelve vows listed for Jain householders for the path of spiritual development, the fourth is a vow of 'celibacy' bing which states that a man or woman should be entirely faithful to and respectful of his/her husband or wife. Any disloyalty toward the spouse transgresses the vow of celibacy in the context of householders.
A Jina.
If disputes arise between the marriage partners, the practice of Jainism would advise that the couple resolve the tension as amicably as possible. However, if a marital relationship degenerates to such a level that perpetual violence (either mental and/or physical) is present, divorce may be considered. The reason for this becomes clear when we view Jainism as a religion which emphasizes spiritual development. A husband and wife are expected to be mutually supportive as they travel together down the path of spirituality. If constant violence is pervasive in the relationship, barring the husband and/or wife from successfully travelling the spiritual path, then divorce can be considered in such an extreme situation.
What is the difference between Jainism and Buddhism?
Jainism and Buddhism are considered contemporary religions; both religions belong to the sramana tradition, which emphasizes individual efforts in attaining liberation without the support of any external agency. They also developed during the
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Jain Spirit June - August 2003
PHOTOS: JAYU SHAH
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same time period in roughly the same geographical location. Yet there are some fundamental philosophical differences in the beliefs and practices of the two religions.
One significant difference between Jainism and Buddhism lies in their view of the fate of the soul after liberation. Jainism believes that after liberation (i.e. when the soul is void of karma), the entity of the soul continues to exist and migrates to a place at the top of the universe known as siddhasila. It stays there permanently in its highest, purest form. According to Buddhist theory, by contrast, there is no soul but a certain individuality or character of an individual which, after nirvana, passes into some kind of indescribable nothingness that cannot be speculated upon.
Buddhism has also become very popular for advocating a "middle path" to salvationpropagating neither one extreme nor another. Jainism, by contrast, is considered by some to be a very extreme religion. Tirthankar Mahavir was known to some as the "warrior ascetic" and indeed physical hardships (such as penance) were introduced for followers on the path to liberation.
A Buddha.
In addition, some believe that there is a certain "adaptability" aspect to Buddhism that has allowed its belief and practices to be followed by millions worldwide. For example, when Buddhism entered foreign lands, it was able to adapt to the local indigenous religious practices. By contrast, some say, followers of Jainism preferred to concentrate on their own spiritual purification without such an emphasis on expanding and adapting the religion to outside communities and cultures..
What is the Jain view on terrorism?
Jainism believes that terrorism should be countered as nonviolently as possible, using whatever means possible short of violence (diplomatic tactics, etc.). Yet, if the level of terrorism reaches a state such that a large population is affected, Jainism clearly states that violence can be used as a defensive measure to deal with terrorism. The violence that is used to put an end to aggression or terrorism may,