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SPECIALITY OF JAINISM Jainism more than any other creed gives absolute religious inde. pendence and freedom to man. Nothing can intervene between the actions which we do and the fruits thereof. Once done, they become our masters and must fruitify. As my independence is great, so my responsibility is coexistensive with it. I can live as I like, but my choice is irrevocable, and I cannot escape the consequences of it. This principle distinguishes Jainism from other religions; e.g. Christianity, Muhammadanism, Hinduism. No God or his prophet or deputy or beloved can interfere with human life. The soul, and it alone is directly and necessarily responsible for that it does. Jugmander Lal Jain, Outlines of Jainism, pp. 344. RIDDLE OF THE CREATION
The first question, which arises in connection with the idea of Creation is, why should God make the world at all ? One system suggests, that he wanted to make the world, because it pleased him to do so; another, that he felt lonely and wanted company; a third, that he wanted to create beings who would praise his glory and worship, a fourth that he does it in sport and so on.
Why should it please the creator to create a world where sorrow and pain are the inevitable lot of the majority of his creatures ? Why should he not make happier beings to keep him company?
(It is really a most unchallengeable argument -- written by Barrister Champat Rai Jain, Key of Knowledge, p. 135) SUPREME JUDGEMENT
"In conclusion let me assert my conviction that Jainism is an original system, quite distinct and independent from all others and that, therefore, it is of great importance for the study of philosophical thought and religious life in ancient India" - Dr Harman Jaikobi, read his paper in the 3rd International Congress of the History of Religions. FRUIT OF AHIMSA
"The complete and flawless practice of Ahimsa raises the man to Godhood. It gives light, provides delight and bestows might to its faithful and honest aspirant.”
Gandhiji aspired to practise highest type of Ahimsa by becoming a nude Jain Monk (Muni). When Churchill had rebuked Gandhiji by calling him 'A Naked Fakir, he had informed Churchill 'I would love to be a naked fakir, but I am not one yet. -The life of M. K. Gandhi, L. Fisher, p. 473.
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