YJA Convention 2002 07 NJ Fifth

Author(s): Young Jains of America (YJA)
Publisher: Young Jains of America YJA USA

Page 46

Fitting Belief with Practice in Jainism
WA YIP
ainism is practiced in different ways and at A second goal of the discussion is to examine the
different levels among youth in North America. relationship between belief and practice at a broader level This seminar is an interactive panel discussion that in our daily lives. Examining our personal lives, the explores the relationship between belief in Jain ideas question to be addressed is whether there are any gaps and principles and the practice of those principles between what we believe in and what we do. Taking a as well as the more "traditional" aspects of Jainism relatively common example, given that we accept certain such as fasting, Samayik, and Pratikraman. beliefs ranging from the value of vegetarianism to the Furthermore, a second aspect of practice deals with elimination of things such as alcohol, onions, or garlic, conflicts between beliefs and actions that we may what are the obstacles that we face in truly implementing undertake in our personal and professional lives. these beliefs, and how do we overcome them. Other Examples of such conflict include the extent to which interesting examples dealing with our personal lives we are able to follow dietary restrictions in light of include our various relationships and our activities. the overall life-style in North America to various ethical dilemmas that we may face as students or There may be conflicts between belief and practice in our professionals. This seminar hopes to explore the professional lives as well, and so we can ask about the various ways in which Jainism is actually practiced common dilemmas that we face in our work lives. This by youth in North America, the potential divide issue is certainly relevant to any field, but two good between belief and practice of Jainism, and ways examples come from the corporate and biomedical in which this divide can be overcome.
research fields. In light of recent events in the corporate
world, we can ask to what extent Jain professionals in the This seminar is led by panel members of various corporate world have to face issues of truth and integrity professional backgrounds who will share their and how they address the ethical dilemmas that arise. In experiences as well serve as moderators to the biomedical sector, a common issue that Jain students encourage audience participation. The first part of and scientists have faced is the use of animals in this discussion will highlight the variety of ways in biomedical research. Using such examples, the seminar which religion is practiced by Jain youth and to hopes to uncover real conflicts that participants face in address how Jainism may be evolving in the North their professional lives and how they can address them. I American context.
notes:
Jain. Education Intematjonal. 2010.03.
For Bevate
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