Book Title: Jain Theism
Author(s): Hemant Shah
Publisher: Hemant Shah

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Page 193
________________ 174 Jain Theism personal-all leading to some very important conclusion regarding the issue of Jain theism. From all these authorities what could be stated is (1) That Jainism is not atheistic. (2) That Jainism does not believe in creator - God but does believe in God, That the Jains have their own conception of God. God to them is the liberated soul or souls, God i.e. liberated souls, all being qualitatively same, one can interpret them all as one. The soul in its pure form is divine and perfect. The pure soul is the God. (6) God, though does not reply the prayer, the scope of prayer is there. Prayer in Jainism is more a source of inspiration and devotion. Grace of God, though not directly, but through gods and goddesses , become part of the Jain rituals. In Jain mode of worship, the relationship between 'I and Thou' or devotee and Divine' or Bhakta and Bhagawāna' or 'Atmā (Jiva) and Paramātama' is quite evident. Jainism is quite rich in its theology as well as mythology that is based on its theism. (10) Jainism, as religion and thought, is theistic; and it provides a unique color, a variety of theism, The above derived are some of the important conclusions. They are logical and substantial as they bear a testimonial support (sabda Pramāņa) either canonical or non-canonical. Jain Education International For Private & Personal Use Only www.jainelibrary.org

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