________________
148
Philosophical Writings
PART I
VALUES The Term: Meaning and Importance:
The term value means that which is intrinsically valuable in itself; unlike a commodity or a product which gives value only through exchange. In Indian Philosophy all values are derived from Truth (Satyam), Love (Goodness i.e. Shivam) and Beauty (Sundaram). There is hardly any need to talk about the role of Values in life. We are all aware of it. In fact, “They provide a framework, a guide, the rail for purposeful, quick and efficient movement through life”. Values bring the element of meaning into life. Values have their sources in culture, which include system of beliefs (religious) and a whole way of life of people. Both religion and culture give meaning to people, their life and actions. The main three features of Indian culture are i) Universal Compassion, ii) Power of Knowledge to bring out liberation, and iii) Transcendental of spiritual dimension, In short openness and tolerance have been the hallmark of Indian Culture and Religions that provide the source and resources. Prof. Stephan Knapp in his famous book, "The Secret Teachings of the Vedas' says, “The ultimate purpose of religion (“Vedic Literature”) is to establish knowledge of self-realization and provide the way to attain freedom from suffering. This means becoming liberated from material and entanglement by using this human form of life for reaching the spiritual platform of existence." The main objective is to know the Self through Values. Religion gives this knowledge through Values, its goal is transformation. Values in Indian Culture and Tradition:
Values are the acquired and affective aspect in human life which an individual internalizes through the process of socialization. They become the guiding force to achieve certain cherished goals in life. “Thus Values act as means to generate strong behavioral tendencies. For instance, some may take pains to clean the place, and keep it neat and tidy, some may strive for punctuality, others
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
