Religion and Philosophy of the Jainas

Author(s): Virchand R Gandhi
Publisher: Jain International Ahmedabad

Page 41

RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY OF THE JAINAS performed, prominent in that picture is seen the woman who is the wife and the mother.
Again a beautiful picture is that of highly educated women who, themselves Rsis (sages) hecause of their learning and devotion, compose hundreds of hymns and perform the sacred services, the same as men. Prominent among the names of distinguished dames whose examples and wise precepts are embalmed in the sweet and holy measures of many hymns composed by theselves, is that of Visvavārā, the interpretation of which name is itself a commemoration of lier virtues and learning - which is "the elect lady”. Moral Status of the Hindus
What was the moral status of the Hindus before the outer barbarians invaded India ? If we examine t!: Greek. Chinese Persian or Arab writings before the ti.ne of the Mahomedi invasion, we will find in them the description of the true national character of the Hindus, i.e., the regard for truth and justice. Arrian in the second century, Hiouen Thsang. the famous Buddhist pilgrim, in the seventh century and Marco Polo in the thirteenth century have each written in highest terms of praise of the Hindu character of their truthfulness, honesty and straight-forwardness, of their administration and justce. What Government either in Europe or Anerica can justly lay claim to this virtue ? The Mahomedan geographer, Idrisi, says, “The Indians are naturally inclined to justice and never depart from it in their actions. Their good faith, honesty and fidelity to their engagements are well-known and they are so famous for these qualities that people flock to their country from every side.”
“If I were asked under what sky the human mind has most fully developed some of its choicest gifts, has most deeply pondered on the greatest problems of life, and has found solutions of some of them which well deserve the attention of those who have studied Plato and Kant, I should point to India. And if I were to ask myself from what literature we here in Europe, we who have been nurtured almost exclusively on the
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