Rajendrasuri Janma Sardh Shatabdi Granth

Author(s): Premsinh Rathod
Publisher: Rajendrasuri Jain Navyuvak Parishad Mohankheda

Page 597

the name of Brahmacharya'. By effective practicing this Jainism can contribute in reducing the size of the family. During the history of last two thousand years the population has enormously increased in tne last century or so. Was India able to effectively control population owing to this important fifth *varta'? Jainism should look at these socio-economic problems that confront our country.
Jainism was and is noted for its largeness of heart. It has flung its door open to all irrespective of caste, colour and creed. So it has no problem of untouchability. Personalities like Harkesbhali & Matarya could embrace Jainism and attain the goal of mortal life even though down trodden and in servitude. The vast monetary funds with persons, institutions can be channelised to help youths to get jobs, setting up of new industries etc. and reducing the problem of employment. Jainism had a glorious past and it can effectively curve out a still glorious future it is can just accommodate the new values set up by the Government and change the routine attitude and perspective. The citizens are tempted to lead a free life, each illegitimately, indulge in a moral sexual life, eat and drink without restrictions and indulge in all sorts of sensual pleasures as a want of following five .Mahavratas' according to Jainism, 'Pancasila' according to Buddhism and salutary ‘vratas' like 'yama', 'niyama' etc. in Hinduism. Population explosion is the crux of the problem. As a result of this all the evils discussed so far cor
rodes the life of individuals. Jainism can give orientation, guidance and pin point the dangers during the course of religious discourseex in upasaras etc. For laxity in life, dress, drinks, foods etc. is even visible on religious occasions like Paryusana' also.
Thus to conclude, Jainism which has enjoyed such a glorious past in every sphere and walks of life can continue its past glorious heritage by playing the role of a religion which fosters aims, aspires for the goal that the present Indian Government endeavours to attain and realise. The 'vratas', the religious ceremonies, religious practices have to be so rationalised and re-oriented that they can well fit in with the change in time Religions cannot remain isolated from society and economic life; it has to be dynamic and not static. Jainism should feel the pulse of changing time and its needs if it wants to translate its past glory into a permanent reality. In the past Jainism was embraced and encouraged by Kings as I think it could translated its well-known philosophy known as Syadvada or Anekantavada. This philosophy of understanding and respecting the view-points of others is the crux of Jainism. If Jainism in modern times is able to bring about a synthesis between its ancient doctrines and social, economic, cultural and political needs of our present century, then it will shine with its glory and grandeur.
RELIGION The art of religion is the best of all arts, the story of religion is the best of all stories, the strength of faith is the greatest of all sources of strength and the happiness of salvation is the finest of all plesures.
JAINISM
Jainism is society-oriented and condemns individualism. It dispels falsc logic, it is true for all times and a destoryer of the darkness of ignorance.
-Rajendra Suri
V. N. S. 2503