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Jaina Philosophy and Religion
aspects of Jainism by a scholar who is equally at home in both Jainism and other systems of Indian Philosophy. The work covers a wide variety of problems. It is so lucid, cogent and authentic that twelve editions sold out in no time. It got translated into Hindi but has come out in English only now. It evinces the author's close acquaintance with the tenets of Jainism, his keenness of arriving at right and rational conclusions, his insight into the essentials of religion, his positive and constructive approach, and his deep knowledge of the systems of Indian Philosophy. It won the praise of many including an Arya Samaji Pt. Swami Premanandji and Muni Punyavijayaji.
Under the tutelage of Rev. Vijayadharmasūri he was able to invoke all those spiritual elements which he has woven into his writings. His forte is his spiritual and philosophical thinking and his contribution in the field is both substantial and distinctive. His exposition is neither sectarian nor dogmatic. His writings aim to enable his readers better evaluate the philosophical and ethical principles in the light of changing world. Freshness of interpretation of old texts, discretionary power, penetrating insight, spontaneous spiritual feelings and all-embracing love have been clearly manifested in his writings. He every now and then regrets that owing to sectarianism and narrowmindedness the religious atmosphere is greatly polluted.
It is my pleasant duty to express my sincere thanks to the management of B.L. Institute of Indology for providing me an opportunity to translate into English an important and interesting Gujarāti work on Jainism.
Nagin J. Shah
23, Valkeshvar Society Ambawadi, Ahmedabad 380 015 October 2, 1996
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