________________
Universal Relevance of Jain Religion
pattern inextricably integrated and interlinked.
While Hindu and Buddhist religions moved out of India in earlier centuries, Jain religion did not because of its austere practices prohibiting saints to travel except on foot and stringent food & conduct restrictions and abstentions. However beginning with 19th century and much more so in the 20th century, Jain businessmen, doctors, engineers and others started locating themselves abroad in Africa, U.K., U.S.A., Singapore, Hongkong etc. Today they are practically found in major cities in all the continents. In a way they have provided a glimpse of Jain way of life in terms of being vegetarians, and being active on inter-faith cooperation front for humanitarian and compassionate causes.
287
As early as 1853 Jain religion was represented at the First Parliament of World's Religions. Later in 1993, at the second Parliament of World's Religion held again at Chicago, a Jain delegation comprising 20 saints, scholars and social activist represented Jain religion and brought home its universal relevance. I happened to be one of them who were also on the drafting committee for a Global Ethics Declaration. And we were successful in this declaration recognising that non-violence constitutes the bedrock of world. ethics.
numerous Jain temples, in various countries and in considerable measure in USA and Canada. More than these places of worship where Jain pray regularly, increasing universal relevance is being realised of the Jain art of living and ethical way of life in terms of taking to the path of Ahimsa, Anekant and Aparigraha in an integrated and earnest manner to the extent feasible in one's circumstances. Such an approach promotes peace and understanding within the family and community as well as different nations.
