Art Of Living Called Jainism - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided text from "The Art of Living Called Jainism" by S.P. Jain:

The book argues that while Jainism, like other religions, discusses the afterlife, transmigration of the soul, and eventual liberation, its core focus is on the "art of living" in the present world.

Key Principles and Concepts:

Non-Violence (Ahimsa) as the Cardinal Principle: Jainism declares "Ahimsa Parmodharma," meaning non-violence is the greatest religion. This principle is not for a solitary life but for a society where individuals interact. All other Jain virtues (truth, non-possession, non-stealing, celibacy) are considered secondary supports to uphold this primary principle, much like a hedge protects a central plant. Jain non-violence transcends geographical, linguistic, caste, creed, or color boundaries, extending not only to humans but also to animals and plants.
Finer Nuances of Non-Violence: Non-violence in Jainism is not merely a physical act of refraining from harm. It extends to speech and thought. Harming someone in thought, even without verbal or physical action, is considered equally sinful and carries the same consequence. Therefore, Jainism emphasizes a clean and pure mind devoid of evil intentions. This makes non-violence a positive state of mind, achieved by eradicating passions like attachment and antagonism (known as rag and dwesh). True emancipation (Kewalya Jnan) can only be attained when one is free from even the slightest trace of passion. Jainism's earlier name, "Nigganth" (without burden/possession), evolved to emphasize that absence of possession alone isn't enough; a pure mind is crucial.
Equality of All Souls (Anekantwad): Jainism posits that all living beings possess souls and are fundamentally equal. Apparent differences arise from past actions (karma) performed in different births. When freed from impure deeds, all souls shine in their pristine glory. This belief in equality fosters respect for all living beings and their viewpoints, as no single individual can claim to possess the whole truth. The philosophy of Anekantwad (non-absolutism) can be understood as an effort towards comprehension and synthesis, recognizing that truth has multiple facets.
Catholicity of Approach: In contrast to prevalent bigotry, Jainism demonstrates broad-mindedness. Its highest prayer, the Navkar Mantra, invokes good qualities rather than specific deities or personalities. It pays homage to anyone possessing these virtues, regardless of their religious affiliation. Jainism acknowledges that liberated souls (Siddha) may not have been labeled as Jains. This open-mindedness is credited with Jainism's survival in India, unlike Buddhism. This charitable mindset is also evident in Jain libraries (Granth Bhandars), which house books from other religions and secular works, contributing to historical research.
Emphasis on Right Knowledge and Right Conduct: Jainism views God as a perfected human being, and every living being has the potential to achieve this state. This path is open to all, irrespective of background. Attaining godhood requires freedom from an impure mind, cultivated through true faith, true knowledge, and true conduct. The individual progresses from an outward-focused life (Bahiratma) to an inward-focused one (Antaratma) by realizing the transient nature of worldly pleasures and the abiding inner happiness. This understanding leads to the realization that 'karmic matter' attached to the soul causes worldly experiences (poverty/riches, health/illness). Removing this karmic matter through self-discipline purifies the soul and leads to godhood (Parmatma). Salvation is achieved through self-effort, not divine intervention. This spiritual progress occurs through fourteen stages, and vigilance in behavior is crucial to prevent regression.
Strict Norms of Conduct: Jainism is organized into four groups: monks (Sadhu), nuns (Sadhvi), laymen (Shravik), and laywomen (Shravika), collectively forming the Chaturdik Sangh. This organization is sovereign in religious matters, with no single section dictating to others and the ability to correct deviations. There is no priesthood, preventing exploitation. Detailed rules govern behavior, with more rigorous ones for monks and nuns due to their greater commitment to body and mind discipline. These rules, guided by non-violence, aim to ensure peace for all in society. For laypeople, this includes vows of spiritual knowledge, service to the virtuous, simple and clean living, veneration of teachers, earning wealth by just means, studying the nature of transmigration, abstaining from sinful and sensual life, avoiding cruel occupations, alert thinking, virtuous living, generosity, penance, and detachment from excessive worldly involvement. These rules emphasize self-knowledge and spiritual focus over worldly absorption, leading to harmony and peace. The virtue of chastity (sheel) alone has 18,000 prescribed norms for different followers.
Spirituality: Jainism aims for the emancipation of the soul (Atma kalyan) from worldly bondage. However, the observance of its disciplines leads to peace and harmony in the world. Given the mystery surrounding origins and ends, Jainism focuses on making the world livable by eliminating misery and pain. Therefore, it can be aptly described as a "Guide to the Art of Living."