Jainism a Theistic Philosophy

Author(s): Krishna A Gosavi
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith

Page 43

INTRODUCTION
29
It is sometimes mistaken that emergence of Jainism and Buddhism was result of revolt against Brāhmanism. Western Scholars in particular maintain this notion. But according to Dr. Sagarmal Jain," it was not revolt but reform. It is true that Sramanic and Vedic tradition have divergent views on certain religious and philosophical issues, but this does not mean that they are rivals or enemies of each other. In Ācārānga, Sūtrakstānga and Isibhāsiyāim, number of passages similar to those of the Upanişads in words, style as well as essence can be found. In Sūtrakstānga we find mention of some Upanișadic şșis such as Videhanami, Bāhuka, Asitadevala, Dvaipāyana and Parāśara. Sūtrakstānga addresses them a great ascetics and great men (mahāpuruṣa) who attained ultimate goal of life i.e. liberation."
Thus we can conclude that owing mostly to the deep rooted prejudices and not having enough knowledge along with other sentimental reasons, some scholars persisted in believing and asserted that Jainism is an offshoot of Brāhmanism or Hindu dissenters, although there are innumerable references in Brāhmanic literature from Vedas down to Purāņas and other medieval literature referring to Jainas, their religion of Tīrthankara and their doctrines”. Some scholars consider Jainism as an offshoot of Buddhism also which is not true.
Prof. Jacobi says “In conclusion, let me assert my conviction that Jainism is an original system, quite distinct and independent from all others; and that, there it is of great importance for the study of philosophical thought and religious life in ancient India.”:74
"An Introduction to Jain Sadhanā ,P-4 72 Ibid.P-4
Dr. Sagarmal Jain, “An Introduction to Jain Sadhanā,P-5 "Dr. yoti Prasad Jain, “Jainism, the Oldest living Religion”, P.V.Research Institute, Varanasi-5, 1988, P-29