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From a Reader's Perspective :
This reader was privileged to read the draft of the English translation of the philosophy of Jainism as prepared by Dr. Kirit Gosalia and to comment on this original manuscript. Readers who are already familiar with the philosophy of Jainism and who are aware of its exceptional depth of thought and scholarship understand the need for careful, concentrated study to master its tenets and to further achieve their own personal state of enlightenment. As one who has devoted his life to teaching, it is to the English speaking reader, and especially to those who are students, desiring to learn the principles of Jainism, to whom my thoughts are addressed.
My fellow readers, this is a work which requires much self-discipline and intense concentration to understand how to apply its tenets to your won lives. It is not a work to be read quickly, nor to be taken lightly- it is to be savored, thought about, discussed, and savored anew. Young readers must be prepared to be patient, to seek wisdom, to ask questions of their own, and, yes, at times, to avoid frustration and to persevere. Remember, to bring your own faith in Jainism to fruition requires a life-long endeavor. Now, as you approach this work, be prepared to put yourself into the role of asking each of the several hundred questions and then to listen and absorb the answers given to each question. Before you begin this remarkable task, I urge you that it is first necessary to study Dr. Gosalia's orientation to this translation. As one who has both studied and taught world religions, I assure you that his introductory orientation and his translation will provide the reader a comprehensive insight into the philosophy of Jainism.
Sincerely,
Melvin W. Donaho, PhD. Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.A.
