Basic Principles Of Jainism

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Overall Purpose and Scope:

This book, compiled and edited by Prof. Narayan Lal Kachhara, is designed to serve as an introductory handbook to Jainism. It was inspired by a curriculum on Human Values for professional students that included a study of Indian philosophies, specifically Buddhist and Jain Darshan. The book aims to cover the basic principles of Jain philosophy, making it accessible to students and general readers alike. The material is compiled from existing publications, notably T.K. Tukol's "Compendium on Jainism," with contributions from other authors.

Core Tenets of Jainism Presented:

The book systematically presents the fundamental principles of Jainism in fourteen chapters, covering a wide range of topics. Key concepts include:

• Antiquity of Jainism: The text asserts that Jainism is one of the most ancient religions in India, with Rishabhdeva being the first Tirthankara mentioned in Vedic literature, and Mahavira being the 24th and last.
• Structure of the Universe (Loka): The universe is composed of six eternal, independent, and co-existing substances (dravyas) divided into two main categories: living (jiva) and non-living (ajiva).
• The Soul (Jiva): The soul is characterized by consciousness, knowledge, and perception. It is formless, eternal, and immortal. In its mundane state, it is contaminated by karma, obscuring its innate powers.
• Doctrine of Karma: This is a central concept, explaining it as a form of subtle matter that adheres to the soul due to its activities. Karma influences an individual's experiences of happiness and misery, birth and death, and inequalities in life. The book details the eight types of karma (four destructive - Ghatiya, and four non-destructive - Aghatiya) and the causes for their influx.
• Seven Tattvas (Fundamental Truths): These are the core principles governing life: Jiva (soul), Ajiva (non-soul), Asrava (influx of karma), Bandha (bondage of karma), Samvara (stoppage of karma), Nirjara (shedding of karma), and Moksha (liberation).
• Theory of Knowledge (Jnana): Jainism distinguishes between direct and indirect knowledge. Mati Jnana (sense knowledge) and Sruta Jnana (scriptural knowledge) are indirect, while Avadhi Jnana (clairvoyance), Manahparyaya Jnana (telepathy), and Kevala Jnana (omniscience) are direct.
• Anekantavada, Nayavada, and Syadvada: These doctrines explain Jainism's non-absolutist approach. Anekantavada emphasizes that reality has multiple aspects, Nayavada analyzes individual viewpoints, and Syadvada provides a framework for expressing these multiple truths using conditional predication (e.g., "may be").
• Ratnatraya (Three Spiritual Jewels): These are Right Faith (Samyakdarshan), Right Knowledge (Samyakjnana), and Right Conduct (Samyakcharitra), which together constitute the path to salvation.
• Gunasthanas (Fourteen Stages of Spiritual Evolution): The soul's journey toward perfection is described through fourteen stages, characterized by the diminishing influence of karmic matter, particularly the deluding karma (Mohaniya Karma).
• Lesya (Soul's Coloration): This doctrine explains how the soul's state of consciousness is influenced by karma, resulting in a transcendental "color" that reflects its moral character, ranging from black (worst) to white (best).
• Dasa Dharma (Ten Supreme Virtues): These are cardinal virtues like forbearance, humility, truthfulness, purity, self-control, austerity, renunciation, non-attachment, and celibacy, which guide ethical conduct.
• Jaina Ethics and Way of Life: The book details the ethical principles for householders (Sravakas) and ascetics (Munis), including the five vows (Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya, Aparigraha) and supplementary vows (Gunavratas and Shikshavratas). The importance of environmental protection is also highlighted as being intrinsic to Jainism.
• Panch Parmesthi: The five supreme souls to be venerated: Arihantas (liberated beings with bodies), Siddhas (fully liberated souls without bodies), Acharyas (spiritual leaders), Upadhyayas (teachers), and Sadhus (ascetics). The Namokara Mantra, a central prayer, is presented, saluting these five categories.

Key Philosophical Stances:

• Rejection of Creator God: Jainism does not recognize a creator God as the supreme power. The universe and its phenomena are governed by laws of causality.
• Rational Analysis: The philosophy emphasizes a rational and scientific approach to understanding the world and life, without reliance on mythology.
• Free Will and Karma: Jainism acknowledges the power of free will (purusarthavada) alongside the doctrine of karma, explaining that karma is the result of free will, and can be modified by it, although certain karmas are immutable.
• Holistic Approach to Ethics: Jain ethics are not solely about prohibitions but also about positive duties and virtues, aiming for the well-being of both the individual and society.
• Emphasis on Detachment and Self-Control: The ultimate goal is liberation (Moksha) achieved through detachment from worldly possessions, control of passions, and purification of the soul.

Structure and Content:

The book is organized into chapters that systematically build understanding of Jain principles, from the basic elements of the universe to the highest spiritual goals. Each chapter introduces a concept, explains its nuances, and often provides illustrative examples. The inclusion of further reading suggestions and references indicates a commitment to providing readers with resources for deeper study. The preface highlights the book's dual purpose: to cater to academic requirements and to inform the general public about this ancient religion and philosophy.