Society Epistemology And Logic In Indian Tradition

Author(s): Dharmchand Jain
Publisher: Prakrit Bharati Academy

Page 49

Society in Jaina Philosophy and Literature
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castes and classes. After becoming a monk caste is neglected, but for a house holder caste remains important especially for marriage purpose. For instance, ifa Jaina is Khandelval by caste then he needs a Khandelval girl to marry. Therefore, caste system in Jain followers is still prevailing. It is a social requirement of Jainas. Agustín Pániker (2001:295) stresses:
“The important thing to retain in all this explanation of castes and classes is that Jainism does not eliminate castes.”
But Pániker's observation compels us to perceive that Jainism is a philosophical or religious term and that does not make any difference between two castes (jāti). The rise of Jainism occurred in the context of socially troubled India and appeared to offer a far more unifying theology. However, in contemporary India prevailing social tendencies and habits have proved for stronger determinants than the liberal tenets of Jainism. Though on theoretical level a society without caste barriers is accepted by all and preached by its ācāryas, in practice it has not been found to be translated into reality. This is true of all idealistic philosophies and not of Jainism alone. Yet with changing times the narrow sectarian and caste outlook is far rapidly being changed and more and more Jain polity is trying to remove these narrow barriers.
It has mainly two facets - One is religious in which caste, class, creed, colour have no place and another is of many kinds, such as-based on caste, business, clubs etc.
It does not need mention that presently several Jaina followers and social organizations are dedicated in the field of