Jainism and World Problems

Author(s): Champat Rai Jain
Publisher: ZZZ Unknown

Page 50

JAINISM AND WORLO PROBLEMS
to Immortality and Godhood. The union of Spirit (soul substance) with matter is very harinful for the soul, and robs it of its divinity and eternal life. It is, therefore, desirable to separate the soul from matter. In the world there is only tribulation and calamity for souls ; but Peace, Joy and the Supreme Status are obtained as the reward of release from the bondage of Matter,
Materialism is not only destructive of the dearest interests of the soul in the hereafter ; it is actually the source of incalculable calamity here on earth too, only its effects are not readily perceived. Some time it takes centuries to perceive that a wrong step has been taken. At times the perception comes when it is too late.
Our problems to-day are the outcome also of the Cain standard of living. For centuries we have gone on applauding our methods because of the seeming prosperity which they brought to a section of mankind. We are at last beginning to perceive that there is a screw loose somewhere in our scheme of things, and are seeking to see if Religion cannot be employed to prop up our tottering Tower of Babel in some way.
Now I am going to tell you what Jainism can and will do for you if you are seeking its aid sincerely. Jainism will not support your Tower of Babel schemes at any time. But it is a thoroughly practical religion, and realises that full renunciation cannot be accomplished by all souls and at once. The Path is, therefore, divided into two sections, the preliminary and the advanced. On the preliminary Path, the souls that enter it are not forbidden all intercourse with the material world ; but they must so discipline themselves that all their animal passions are strictly subdued and excessive lust and greed and pride and fanaticism are entirely crushed out of the heart. Acquisition and fashion are still the ideals of the houscholder, but they must both be controlled by Religion. Thus the Jaina layman is led to tread the path