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Jainism has been a living religion for at least 3,000 years now. Its ethical codes of conduct that centre around Anuvratas, and especially Ahimsa and Aparigraha are of universal value. Jainism is unique in extending the concern of "Live and Let Live" to all the creatures including microbes and even plants (See Singhvi 1990). Jainism had historically exerted a great influence on Shrishaiva, Vaisnava, Lingayata and other Saint-sects in medieval times in terms of the spread of vegetarianism and teetotalism.
Perhaps the most original items in the Jain ethical codes of conduct are Sallekhana (the art of dying) and Kshama (forgiveness). On the whole, the Jain ethical code of conduct has tended to steer its followers towards rational thinking regarding certain social customs such as Sati and Shraddha. It also discourages superstitions such as worshipping certain deities for getting cured of diseases, and/or restoring good health. Again, another characteristic feature of Jainism is the common code of conduct for its ascetics and laymen or laywomen. This perhaps has been an important factor in the survival of Jainism for so long even in the face of adverse political conditions.
Next to philosophy and religion, the contribution to languages and literature by the Jains is quite remarkable (Winternitz 1946). The Jain literature includes a vast body of non-canonical works, poetical narratives (Puranas, Charitras, Kathas, prabandhas, kavyas and mahakavyas, etc) and scientific and technical literature pertaining to astronomy, astrology, cosmology, mathematics, geography, economics, grammar, logic, philosophy, poetics, lexicography, etc. Much of this literature which put Shramanic values to the fore emphasizes misery and sufferings in the world (Samsar) and the ways to overcome them not through sacrifices and priestly help but through good moral conduct and compassion. Through their writings the Jains have enriched not only the ancient languages such as Sanskrit, Prakrit and Apabhramsa, but also many modern Indian languages, namely, Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada, Tamil and Telugu. Much of this vast Jain literature continues to be stored in innumerable Jain temples and Shastra bhandaras, and remains unclassified and unpublished as yet (Balbir et al. 2006: Bhargava 1968: 226-55; Jain, K. C. 1991).
18 Jains in India and Abroad
