Outlines of Jainism

Author(s): J L Jaini, F W Thomas
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Page 45

CHAPTER I.-THEOLOGY
The fundamental principles of Jainism are these :--- I. Man's personality is dual, material and spiritual (1, 2). The duality of the dead matter and the living principle which animates the human body is evident. There may be differences as to the nature of it; but as to the fact of the duality there cannot be any question. This is in striking contrast with the Hindu doctrine of Brahman, or one soul which is all and in all.
II. Man is not perfect. He can improve, i.e. he can advance in the direction of perfection. The human soul ean attain perfection. In its perfect condition the soul enjoys its true and eternal character, whereof the characteristic is the four infinities: infinite perception or faith; infinite knowledge; infinite power; and infinite bliss (3).
The four infinities are respectively named: anantadarśana, ananta-jñāna, ananta-vīrya, and anantasukha.
III. By his spiritual nature man can and must control his material nature. It is only after the entire subjugation of matter that the soul attains perfection, freedom, and happiness (4, 5).
It is such a free and happy soul that is called Jina (Conqueror) or Tirthankara (Guide) (6).
1 The thick numerals in brackets correspond to the order in which the original texts are numbered below. The texts are the authority for the statements in the Outlines.
B