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that the basis of life is healthy cells. These cells can be repaired and kept going in good order for a long time. As long as, a dying cell, after being rejuvenated, retains the capacity for division and for reproduction of a new cell, life would continue. The scientists have succeeded in replacing inert or dead parts of the body by transplanting in it new parts. They have also achieved success in heart-transplantations. But they have not been able to achieve victory over death. If, as claimed by them, they can stall death by rejuvenating the cells, it would create a great commotion in the world of philosophy and science. Right now it seems hardly possible.
Q. Can death be stalled according to Jain philosophy?
-- The scientists say that life is connected with the cells of the body. How does Jain philosophy react to it?
Ans. Jain philosophy is the philosophy of conquering
- death. The wished for consummation lies in getting rid of the cycle of life and death. But this happens only in a state of perfect freedom. The soul wandering in the world has no deliverer; it will have to accept death one day, sooner or later. But the frontiers of death can be modified; untimely death can be avoided.
According to Jain philosophy, it is the vital energy that regulates life. In theoretical language, it may be called oja, the vital food.* As long as the effect of oja lasts, life continues. Oja is the name given to the atoms of the life-force. Every living being, in the first moment of its existence, receives these atoms. As long as this source remairs active, death cannot occur.
The cell begins its new life by taking the fertilized egg of the mother. This process is called ojahar.
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