Jinamanjari 2000 09 No 22

Author(s): Jinamanjari
Publisher: Canada Bramhi Jain Society Publication

Page 70

Collected Papers on Jaina Studies. Collected Papers on Jaina Studies by Padmanabh S: Jaini, 1999. Motilal Banarsidas, 41 U.A. Bungalow Road, Jawahar Nagar Delhi - 110007, India. ISBN #81-208-1691-9 Price: Rs. 395.00
This is a monograph which consists of select published papers by the author. As such, the book provides not only an insight into the author's reflections on various Jaina topics, but also highlights these reflections as a process -- a process interdisciplinary study over the course of the author's remarkable career.
For example, when discussing issues surrounding the Digambara and Śvetāmbaras traditions in Jainism, the author commendably remains unbiased. This is particularly seen in the paper on the salvation of women in Jainism. The opinions of both the traditions are accurately explained and critically examined using scriptural references and situation examples. For comparison, however, the author extends himself beyond just the Jaina tradition and presents as comparison and contrast the philosophies of non-Jaina texts from Buddhism and Hinduism.
The translation of Bhavasena's Digambara text is very intriguing. The text again describes the ability of woman to attain mokşa in the Digambara view as compared to the Svetāmbaras. My bias aside, by adding text translation Jaini allows a Jain youth of the 21st century to make a connection to a Jain thinker of the 14th century. This in itself is beautiful; also it gives readers a chance to reflect on their own interpretation of Jainism.
In general, by remaining unbiased, providing various doctrinal translations, and presenting a clear view, the book is an enjoyable read -- especially as the essay-style format used by Jaini is far more interesting than some of the more standard reiterations of Jainism. The work is best suited for those who need an explanation and interpretation of basic Jain thought and those topics of contention.
Ambika Jain is a student at the University of Toronto.
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