Bauddh Aur Jain Darshan Ke Vividh Aayam - Book Summary

This document is a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Bauddh aur Jain Darshan ke Vividh Aayam" (Various Dimensions of Buddhist and Jain Philosophy) by Dr. Niranjana Vora. The book is a compilation of research articles that explore the multifaceted aspects of both Buddhist and Jain philosophies, with a particular focus on their ethical principles, philosophical underpinnings, and societal relevance.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and chapters discussed in the text:

Introduction and Author's Motivation (Page 6): The author, Niranjana Vora, expresses her motivation for compiling these essays. She notes that despite humanity's access to immense power and material comforts through science, people still suffer from inner turmoil, fear, and anxiety. This drives the search for peace, which religion, philosophy, and spirituality aim to provide. The book aims to offer insights into the ethical and philosophical systems of Buddhism and Jainism, which promote knowledge, equality, and harmony, to students and practitioners.

Key Chapters and Themes:

Buddhist Teachings and Environmental Protection (Pages 8-19): This chapter explores the Buddhist perspective on environmental conservation, emphasizing the interconnectedness of nature and human values. It highlights Buddha's teachings on compassion for all living beings, the prohibition of harming plants and trees, and the ethical guidelines for monks that protect the natural environment. The text also discusses the importance of moral environmentalism through the cultivation of virtues like non-violence, compassion, and friendliness.
The Buddhist Doctrine of Karma (Pages 20-26): This section delves into the Buddhist concept of karma, explaining how it rejects the notions of an all-powerful God, determinism, and a permanent soul. Karma is presented as the driving force behind the cycle of rebirth and suffering. The chapter details the Buddhist understanding of cause and effect, the twelve links of dependent origination (pratītyasamutpāda), and the types of karma. It also draws parallels between Buddhist karma theory and Vedic and Bhagavad Gita's concepts of karma and liberation.
Buddhist Philosophy and the Doctrine of Pratītyasamutpāda (Dependent Origination) (Pages 27-34): This chapter elaborates on the core Buddhist principle of pratītyasamutpāda, which explains the interconnectedness of all phenomena through a chain of cause and effect. It highlights the twelve nidanas (links) that illustrate how suffering arises and can be overcome. The text also touches upon the philosophical schools within Buddhism, such as Vaibhāṣika and Sautrāntika (Heenayana), and their respective views on the nature of reality.
Buddhist Metaphysics: Focusing on the Heenayana School (Pages 35-44): This chapter provides an in-depth analysis of the metaphysical tenets of the Heenayana school of Buddhism, particularly its sub-schools, Vaibhāṣika and Sautrāntika. It discusses their views on elements of existence (dharmas), the aggregates (skandhas), sense bases (āyatanas), and the concept of impermanence (kṣaṇabhaṅga).
Vishuddhimagga: The Encyclopedia of Buddhism (Pages 45-48): This section introduces the "Vishuddhimagga" (The Path of Purification), a seminal work by Acharya Buddhaghosa. It describes the book as an "encyclopedia of Buddhism" due to its comprehensive explanation of Buddhist principles, practices, and philosophy. The chapter outlines the structure and content of the Vishuddhimagga, which covers ethics (śīla), meditation (samādhi), and wisdom (prajñā).
The Influence of Buddhist Philosophy in Gujarati Literature (Pages 49-54): This chapter explores the impact of Buddhist thought, particularly the ideals of compassion, non-violence, and the middle path, on Gujarati literature. It analyzes how poets and writers have depicted the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha, highlighting themes of love, peace, and social reform in their works.
The Feminist Movement and the Status of Women in India (In the Context of Buddha and Gandhi's Ideas) (Pages 55-60): This chapter examines the evolution of feminism in India, drawing parallels with the ideas of Gautama Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi. It discusses the historical struggles of women for equality, the emergence of women's organizations, and the ongoing challenges women face in contemporary society, despite legal advancements.
The Harmony of Religion and Science (Pages 61-68): This chapter discusses the potential for synergy between religious ethics and scientific inquiry. It argues that both are essential for human well-being and societal progress. The author emphasizes that scientific advancements should be guided by ethical principles derived from religion to ensure a balanced and peaceful coexistence.
Jain Ethics and Environmental Purity (Pages 69-77): This chapter focuses on the Jain perspective on environmental ethics, detailing the principles of ahimsa (non-violence), aparigraha (non-possession), and bhogopabhogaparimanavrata (limitation of consumption). It explains how these ethical guidelines, when practiced, contribute to the preservation of nature and the well-being of all living beings. The text also discusses the five types of violence (himsa) in Jainism and the importance of minimizing harm to all forms of life.
The Exposition of Ahimsa in Jainism and Buddhism: A Comparative Study (Pages 78-85): This chapter offers a comparative analysis of the concept of ahimsa in Jainism and Buddhism. It highlights the profound emphasis placed on non-violence by both traditions, discussing their respective ethical frameworks (e.g., Jain Mahavratas and Buddhist Panchsheel) and their underlying philosophical principles. The text also touches upon the societal implications of practicing ahimsa.
Lord Mahavir and Socialism (Pages 86-89): This chapter draws parallels between the teachings of Lord Mahavir and the principles of socialism. It explores the shared emphasis on equality, the rejection of greed and accumulation, and the establishment of a society free from exploitation. However, it also notes the differences in their methodologies, with Mahavir emphasizing individual spiritual development through asceticism and self-control, while socialism often relies on societal structures and laws.
Psychological Depiction in Prakrit Language Literature (Pages 87-99): This chapter delves into the psychological insights found in Prakrit literature, particularly within Jain religious texts (Agamas) and other literary works. It discusses the Jain understanding of the mind, its various states (like agitated, steady, and tranquil), the role of desire and aversion, and the practice of controlling the senses and mind through discipline and meditation. The text also highlights the psychological nuances present in Jain stories and narratives.
The Concept of Peaceful Coexistence Depicted in Prakrit Language Literature (Pages 100-104): This chapter explores the theme of peaceful coexistence and societal harmony as presented in Prakrit literature. It emphasizes the Jain ideals of ahimsa, anekanta (non-absolutism), aparigraha, and samattva (equality), arguing that these principles are crucial for establishing a peaceful and equitable society. The chapter also draws upon Vedic concepts of peace and welfare.
Literary Evaluation of Shri Vadīrājasūri's Pārśvanāthacarita (Pages 105-114): This chapter provides a literary critique of the Sanskrit epic poem "Pārśvanāthacarita" by Vādīrājasūri. It analyzes the narrative structure, poetic style, use of literary devices, and the portrayal of Lord Pārśvanātha's life, including his past lives and his attainment of liberation. The chapter also discusses the poem's adherence to the conventions of classical Sanskrit Mahakavyas.
The Theoretical Aspect of Moksha (Liberation) (Pages 121-125): This chapter examines the philosophical theories of moksha (liberation) in Jainism and Buddhism. It discusses the concepts of liberation in this life (Jivanmukti) and after death, the nature of the soul (atman) in both traditions, the role of karma, and the path to achieving liberation through ethical conduct, meditation, and wisdom.

The book, by bringing together these diverse articles, offers a comprehensive overview of the philosophical and ethical landscape of Buddhism and Jainism, highlighting their enduring relevance in understanding human life, society, and the environment.