Ahimsa And Jainism

This document is a collection of essays on Jainism, published by Shree Vallabh Suri Smarak Nidhi. The book, titled "Ahimsa and Jainism," was released in 1959-60, coinciding with the 2500th anniversary of Lord Buddha's Mahaparinirvana. This period saw a renewed interest in Jainism, particularly in its founder, Lord Mahavira.

The preface highlights that Jainism is an independent Shramanic tradition, predating Buddhism and the Vedic religion. It emphasizes Jainism's core principles, particularly Ahimsa (non-violence) and Anekantavada (many-sidedness or relativity of thought). The book aims to provide readers with a general understanding of Jain philosophy and its ethical teachings, particularly its emphasis on universal love and non-violence towards all living beings.

The table of contents reveals a diverse range of topics covered by various scholars:

• "The Message of Jainism" by Dr. Kalidas Nag: This essay positions Jainism as a minor but ancient Indian religion offering solutions to modern problems, with Ahimsa as its central message for all beings. It traces Jainism's historical presence and its importance in a world facing conflict and potential annihilation.
• "The Philosophy of Mahavira" by Kamta Prasad Jain: This piece focuses on Mahavira's teachings, particularly Anekantavada (Syadvada), as a method for understanding different viewpoints and achieving peace. It illustrates the application of Anekantavada to resolve conflicts and discusses the interconnectedness of various aspects of reality.
• "Ahimsa" by Dr. A. N. Upadhye: This essay delves into the doctrine of Ahimsa, explaining it as the bedrock of Jain ethics, permeating all aspects of life. It details the classification of beings and the graded approach to minimizing harm, emphasizing that Ahimsa is not just a profession but a constant practice encompassing physical, verbal, and mental aspects. It also touches upon the tolerance fostered by Ahimsa.
• "Vardhamana Mahavira and His Religion" by Dr. B. C. Law: This essay provides a biographical account of Lord Mahavira, his life, his teachings, and the core principles of Jainism, including Karma, the nature of the soul, and the path to liberation.
• "Contribution of Jainism to Philosophy" by Virchand B. Gandhi: This essay examines Jainism's unique philosophical contributions, particularly its rejection of a creator God, its emphasis on self-effort for salvation, and its distinctive theories of Karma and soul. It also highlights Jainism's influence on Indian literature and its preservation of ancient Prakrit works.
• "Historical Position of Jainism" by Dr. J. S. Jetly: This essay discusses Jainism's historical origins, its relationship with Buddhism and Brahmanism, and the evidence supporting its independent existence predating Buddhism. It explores the Sramana tradition and the intellectual ferment of ancient India.
• "Essentials of Jainism" by H. C. Bhayani: This piece outlines the fundamental tenets of Jainism, reiterating the centrality of Ahimsa and its role as the foundation for other ethical principles. It also introduces the concept of two fundamental substances (Jiva and Ajiva) and the Jain understanding of karma, self-control, and emancipation.
• "The Metaphysics & Ethics of The Jainas" by H. Jacobi: This essay provides a scholarly analysis of Jainism's metaphysical basis, contrasting it with Brahmanical and Buddhist doctrines. It emphasizes the theory of indefiniteness (Anekantavada) and Syadvada as the keys to understanding reality and resolving disputes. It also delves into the Jain theory of Karma, its material nature, and the role of asceticism.
• "Dr. Jacobi at Rajkot, Kathiawar": This section appears to be a transcription of a lecture by Dr. Jacobi, further discussing Jainism's independence from Buddhism, its monastic nature, and its philosophical principles.

In essence, the book "Ahimsa and Jainism" serves as an introduction to the fundamental principles, philosophy, and historical context of Jainism, with a strong emphasis on the paramount importance of Ahimsa (non-violence) as the guiding principle of life and the path to spiritual liberation. It underscores Jainism's unique contributions to Indian thought and its enduring relevance for humanity.