________________
FOREWORD
“JAINS TODAY IN THE WORLD" is an exploration by the author of an ancient and relatively little-known faith that is surprisingly relevant for the XXI" century. It is a faith system that emphasizes non-violence, respect for the environment and the power of meditation - all while eschewing material possessions and encouraging the control over the self.
Jainism, a religion originating from India - with Hinduism and Buddhism - is an integral part of India. The Jain tradition, which enthroned the philosophy of ecological harmony and non-violence as its lodestar, flourished for centuries side-by-side with other schools of thoughts in ancient India. It formed a vital part of the mainstream of ancient Indian life, contributing greatly to its philosophical, artistic and cultural heritage. During certain periods of Indian history, many ruling elites as well as large sections of the population were Jains.
Although the ten millions Jains estimated to live in modern India, constitute a tiny fraction of its population, the message and motifs of the Jain perspective, its unconditional reverence for life in all forms, its commitment to the progress of human civilization and the prevention of the natural environment, continues to have profound and pervasive influence on Indian life and outlook. Jainism, with its distinctive views on matters such as non-violence and intellectual relativity, has relevance to the life and thought of not only this century but also for many centuries to come.
Jainism has succeeded in preserving to the present time its integrity as a separate system in the midst of preponderant Hinduism. Jainism is a complete system with all necessary branches such as ontology, metaphysics, philosophy, epistemology, ethics, rituals, art and architecture, etc. It has its own scriptures, temples (architecturally, some of the most beautiful temples in India are the Jain temples) and
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
