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Family plays an extremely important role in imparting skills and training to the younger generation regarding trade and commerce. When these occupations become hereditary it is but natural that for each successive generation, older generation must serve as a "reference" group. In the process the collective representations are also passed on to the next generation perpetuating gerontocracy and socio-cultural conservatism in general.
Religious Ethic Taking into account this pervasive dualism, it is difficult to label Jainism as only "world rejecting" asceticism. But at the same time while it cannot be labeled as "inner worldly” asceticism, some of the characteristics of this ideal type are indeed present in Jainism. Thus as briefly discussed below the twin doctrines of predestination and the calling implied in Protestantism are only indirectly present in Jainism but they must be understood in the light of the doctrine of Karma, and not in relation to God. Many aspects of rational conduct promoting savings such as thriftiness, self-discipline, frugality and abstention as part of this worldly concept of asceticism, however, are directly present in Jainism.
In Jainism salvation does not depend upon the grace of God, for as an atheist religion it denies the existence of God. Instead, it places singular emphasis on "individualism" in the sense that every soul can attain perfection - its true "dharma" (nature), i.e., perfect wisdom, unlimited perception, infinite power and unbounded happiness, etc. What hinders it from doing so is its increasing bondage with Karmicmatter (psycho-physical micro-particles). Karmas are destroyed only when moksa or nirvana is attained, which means perfect freedom of the soul from all kinds of matter (see Jaini 1979). In Jainism karma functions automatically; one is responsible for one's thoughts, words, and acts. No one, not even the God, can intervene in this routine. This is something very characteristic of Jainism. In order to stop the influx of karmas one is required to have right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct. It is not sufficient to stop the influx of bad karmas and destroy the accumulated karmas, it is also necessary to "earn” good karmas.
Jains in India and Abroad
