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श्रमण / जुलाई-सितम्बर/ १९९७
tenets of Jainism as propounded by Lord Mahāvīra.
The book is divided into two parts. In the first part, the author writes about the life and teachings of Lord Mahāvīra and introduces the readers the Jaina Agamic literature, thereby setting the background for the second part which is a collection of aphorisms from the sacred texts. The choice selection of the 650 aphorisms and their division into the 71 lessons clearly indicate the research work and the meticulous efforts of the author. The aphorisms selected are simple as well as reflective and thought provoking. 71 lessons are classified under the following 12 chapters: Precepts on the auspicious, Knowledge of the fundamentals, conquest of passions, mind, karma, learning, the path of liberation, the path of righteousness, reflections on the self etc. In this compilation, we really find a glimpse of that sublime thought which shall inspire mankind to tread the path of righteousness at all times.
The translation is simple and lucid. The wisdom underlying the ancient aphorisms is such that reading them regularly will show newer insights and greater application in life. These are truths about life, about birth and death, about happiness and sorrow, about success and failure and most importantly, about our attitudes in life. They show us how to prioritise in life and work towards happiness and contentment.
Today there is a need to address the confusion between what one ought to do and what one would be inclined to do. A study of these aphorisms will not only make one a better person, but it can certainly provide us the solution of our practical problems. Such a study can help us in better understanding and classifying our own moral principles. It can lead us from blind, irrational beliefs and dogmas to logical scrutiny and critical reflective morality of one's own.
Jain Education International
This book will be very useful for the research scholars as it contains index of all the Sūtras, a bibliography and a glossary of technical terms. The value of the publication is greatly enhanced by providing a reliable Roman transliteration. The writer's style is lucid, the impact provides a strong foundation about Jaina theories, capturing our minds by its detached and intellectual rendering.
: १३८
Priya Jain University of Madras
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