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ESSAYS AND ADDRESSES
suckers, nor are all Hindu and other non-Jaina brethren of theirs pure embodiments of tenderness and mercy, nor can any sensible man impute the shortcomings of a few individuals to a whole community. Lalaji's error really consists in making a sweeping generalization on the basis of an instance or two-whether real or supposed it matters not which -- but it is obvious that no weight can be attached to sweeping remarks of this kind, especially when they are defamatory of a whole class or community of men. I could never believe that the Lalaji could be guilty of such a rash statement even in the course of a hurriedly prepared impromptu speech, and, therefore, my surprise is all the greater at his exuberant thoughtlessness actually in print. But as already hinted at earlier, the fault probably lies with the tendency of our modern methods of education which invite and encourage expression even at the cost of deliberation.
If Lalaji had only read what Colonel Tod wrote about the humanity of Jainas (see Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan, Vol. II, pp. 438-39) he would not have proceeded in a hurry to condemn a peaceful and charitable community of law-abiding men, in the most ungenerous of terms. This is what Col. Tod says of Jaina humanity :
“Reputable merchants of the Mahajin tribe refrain from speculating in grain, from the most liberal feelings, esteeming it dherm nuhyn hyn, 'a want of charity.' The humane Jain 'merchant says, 'to hoard up grain, for the purpose of taking advantage of human misery, may bring riches, but never profit.”
Mrs. Margaret Stevenson points out in the Heart of Jainism (p. 224) that a Jaina layman
"... will strive to develop those twenty-one qualities which distinguish the Jaina gentleman. He will always be serious in demeanour; clean as regards both his clothes and his person; good-tempered; striving after popularity; merciful; afraid of sinning; straightforward; wise ; modest; kind; moderate ; gentle ; careful in speech; sociable; cautious; studious; reverent both to old age and old customs; humble; grateful ; benevolent; and finally attentive to business.”
The true Jaina is
“... provident, has more than ordinary knowledge, is grateful for what is done for him, is loved by people, is modest, is merciful, of a serene disposition, and benevolent."-Ibid., p. 244.
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