Pristine Jainism

Author(s): S M Jain
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith

Page 43

(40) : Pristine Jainism them with the passage of time. Though space is limited but there is no problem as each one soul can give space to innumerable other souls within its own space (dimensions) because of its intrinsic infinite power of permeability (Avagāhana Sakti). They give space even to the lowest life forms (Nigodiyas). This is an extreme example of symbiosis and cooperation.
Misconceptions:
It is unfortunate that recent interpretation of principle of Jainism by some, particularly the Songarh school of thought does not accept this fundamental principle of symbiosis enshrined in authentic texts. They go to so funny and illogical extent saying such things that potter does not make pots and soil takes shape only because of its own intrinsic property. They assert that no substance can influence other. They do not accept even killings as violence and quote:
जो मण्णदि हिंसामि य हिंसिज्जामि य परेहिं सत्तेहिं । सो मूढो अण्णाणी, णाणी एत्तो दु विवरीदो ।।
Samayasāra - 262
The person who subscribes to the belief that he can kill others and that others can kill him is wrong.
Such quotes will be misleading and give a wrong message to people in general and at large. Apparently this is against the very principle of non-violence, which is one of the five vows mandatory for householders as well as saints.
However, they do not take poison, as they know its effect and they do take medicines for cure of diseases, thus contradicting their own interpretations. The enlightened ones the Tīrthankaras were great thinkers and analytical. Whatever they have stated is perfectly logical and rational. The principle of Anekānta (non-absolutism) is unique and synthesises logically different views. According to Jainism the actions and interactions are because of inherent properties or qualities defined as upādāna which