Adhunik Yoga Me Jain Siddhanto Ki Upayogita

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Book Title: Adhunik yoga me jain Siddhanto ki Upayogita (The Utility of Jain Principles in Modern Times) Author: Dr. Vimal Kumar Jain Publisher: Z_Deshbhushanji_Maharaj_Abhinandan_Granth_012045.pdf Catalog link: https://jainqq.org/explore/210242/1

Summary:

This article, "The Utility of Jain Principles in Modern Times" by Dr. Vimal Kumar Jain, explores the enduring relevance of Jain teachings, particularly those propounded by Lord Mahavir, in addressing contemporary societal challenges.

The author begins by contrasting the Vedic and Shraman cultures in India. The Vedic culture, initially focused on the marvels of creation and a creator God, emphasized rituals. Later, it evolved to value contemplation and devotion, eventually harmonizing these aspects. In contrast, the Shraman culture, from its inception, was characterized by renunciation and self-realization, viewing knowledge as the ultimate goal and devotion and action as means. While these cultures influenced each other, Jainism, founded on eternal principles, represents a sanatana (eternal) ideology. These principles were first articulated by the first Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva, and later by the 24th Tirthankara, Mahavir. The text notes that even Vedic scriptures mention Rishabhadeva and other Tirthankaras like Ajitnath and Neminath.

Lord Mahavir is presented as a key proponent of the Shraman culture. The author contrasts him with his contemporaries, including Gautam Buddha, highlighting that only Buddha's teachings are widely preserved and disseminated globally. However, Mahavir's principles, being universal and timeless, transcend narrow sectarianism and are "for the welfare of humanity." This is why they remain as relevant today as they were at the time of their origin and will continue to be so in the future.

The article then delves into the socio-economic and political conditions of Mahavir's era, marked by significant disparities. Brahmins held prominence in politics, society, and education, influencing the ruling Kshatriyas. While learned and often renouncing, they perpetuated caste discrimination. Ritualistic practices, including animal and even human sacrifices, were prevalent. The middle and lower classes suffered under economic inequality, and women were denied many rights.

Lord Mahavir, witnessing the suffering of voiceless animals, helpless people, the downtrodden, and oppressed women, emerged as a messenger of revolution, advocating for co-existence. Instead of blaming individuals, he decided to bring about change through spiritual revolution, becoming an ascetic, a tapasvin (one who practices austerity), and a knower. Mahatma Buddha also followed a similar path, albeit with a different approach.

The article emphasizes the practical utility of key Jain principles for the welfare of humanity, highlighting their contemporary relevance:

• Aparigraha (Non-possession) and Sarvodaya (Universal Upliftment): The author stresses the importance of renouncing excessive accumulation (Parigraha). Jainism, also known as Nirgrantha (free from attachment), emphasizes detachment from possessions. Greed for possessions leads individuals to forget their true selves, become self-centered, and cause unrest. The desire to accumulate leads to falsehood, theft, deceit, conspiracy, violence, and even war. Therefore, controlling and limiting possession is crucial for eradicating societal ills and establishing equality. Jain philosophy advocates returning surplus wealth, property, and resources to society and the nation. This aligns with the concept of socialism and Sarvodaya, aiming for the upliftment of all. The author argues that Jainism's detailed explanation of Aparigraha is more comprehensive than modern socialist economists, integrating it as a religious duty for adherence.

• Syadvada or Anekanta (Multi-sidedness/Theory of Manysidedness): This principle, the author argues, is Lord Mahavir's most significant contribution to the world for achieving universal harmony. It encourages viewing things from multiple perspectives, rather than clinging to a single viewpoint, which often fuels conflict and ego. The text cites historical conflicts between various religious and philosophical groups as examples of the problem of rigid viewpoints. Syadvada promotes tolerance, broad-mindedness, harmony, and love, thereby pacifying aggression. It emphasizes that truth is relative and dependent on perspective, leading to the understanding that different viewpoints can coexist. This principle is linked to Einstein's theory of relativity. The famous Jain mantra "Namo Loye Savva Sadhunam" (Salutations to all saints in the world) exemplifies this inclusive approach.

• Revolutionary Steps: Beyond philosophical principles, Lord Mahavir introduced revolutionary social reforms:

  • Abolition of Caste Discrimination: He declared that social hierarchy is not birth-based but karma-based, stating, "Kammuna hoi Bammano, Vammuna hoi Khattiyo" (One becomes a Brahmin by deed, a Kshatriya by deed). The text quotes Acharya Amitagati, who posits that caste distinctions arose from differences in conduct, not from inherent, fixed realities. It also mentions that individuals from lower castes could achieve liberation through righteous conduct, and even those from humble backgrounds can become exemplary followers of Jainism.
  • Universal Right to Liberation: Mahavir asserted that any virtuous soul, regardless of caste, creed, or origin, has the potential to become Paramatma (Supreme Soul). This is considered a highly commendable contribution, emphasizing that every good person has the right to liberation and can become divine.
  • Equality of Religious Practice: Acharya Kundakunda in Samaysar stated that the external appearance or attire (ling) is not important for ascetics or householders. What truly matters are right faith (Samyagdarshan), knowledge (Gyan), and conduct (Charitra), regardless of the practitioner's background.
  • Empowerment of Women: Mahavir's teachings also emphasized the upliftment of women, exemplified by the life of Mahasati Chandanbala.

In conclusion, the article asserts that Lord Mahavir was a profound visionary who, with a spirit of universal welfare, established these principles and reforms for all times and places. It argues that a society built on these foundations will be strong, free from internal strife, and capable of overcoming conflict. Therefore, the Jain principles of Ahimsa (non-violence), Aparigraha, and Anekanta are as relevant today, in an era rife with conflict, corruption, and inequality, as they were in the past and will remain so in the future.