Bharatiya Vichardhara Aur Jain Drushti

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Bharatiya Vichardhara Aur Jain Drushti" (Indian Thought and Jain Perspective) by Radheshyamdhar Dwivedi, based on the given pages:

The text explores the place and impact of Jain thought within the broader landscape of Indian philosophical and social thought. The author, Radheshyamdhar Dwivedi, argues that true understanding and acceptance of ideas stem from their ability to reconcile with existing thought and practice without creating undue conflict. He posits that Jainism, with its emphasis on independent thought and a judicious approach to truth, aligns with this principle.

Core Principles of Jainism and their Relevance:

• Reconciliation and Peaceful Coexistence: The author highlights Jainism's significant contribution in attempting to pacify and bring a sense of order to the intensely debated philosophical ideas of the 6th century BCE, a period of significant intellectual ferment in India. Jainism's advocacy for a path of peace allowed it to maintain its place in society, though not to the extent of completely dominating it.
• Anekantavada (Non-absolutism): This central Jain tenet is presented as a crucial element for navigating everyday conflicts. Anekantavada suggests that truth is multifaceted and can be viewed from different perspectives, meaning something can be true from one viewpoint and not from another. This fosters tolerance and understanding, preventing the ridicule of differing perspectives that can hinder genuine philosophical inquiry.
• Syadvada (Conditional Predication): Closely related to Anekantavada, Syadvada emphasizes that statements are always qualified and conditional. This approach is seen as a way to avoid the rigid and absolutist claims that often lead to societal conflict.
• Ahimsa (Non-violence): Ahimsa, extending beyond physical violence to encompass mental and verbal harm, is presented as the bedrock of Jain philosophy. It's stressed that this principle is upheld through the practice of the five great vows (Pancha Mahavratas), vigilance, and self-control. Ahimsa is the starting point for understanding the soul and true principles, and it demands respect for the thoughts and philosophical inquiries of others.
• Product-Change-Permanence (Utpād-Vyay-Dhruvata): This Jain concept, describing the simultaneous existence of change and permanence in any object, is presented as a more accurate description of reality than absolutist views of either complete flux or absolute permanence. Disagreements on this point are seen as a source of conflict.

Jainism's Approach to Philosophy and Practice:

• Empirical Verification: The text emphasizes that ideas should be tested through practice and behavior. External actions are seen as complementary to spiritual understanding. The quote from Samanasuttam highlights the interconnectedness of inner knowledge and outward understanding.
• Ethical Conduct and Self-Discipline: Jain monks, through the observance of samitis (careful movements) and guptis (control of mind, speech, and body), cultivate character and eradicate negative tendencies. The path to liberation involves shedding karma through ethical conduct, vigilance, and restraint.
• Renunciation and Detachment: A key characteristic of Jainism is the renunciation of desires and detachment from worldly pleasures.
• Self-Reliance and Rejection of External Authority: Jain philosophy's belief in the soul's inherent potential leads to a lack of reliance on an external creator God. It also fosters an attitude of non-hatred towards followers of other religions, advocating for the adoption of any "reasoned word" regardless of its origin (as exemplified by the quote from Lokatattva Nirnaya).
• Liberation as Self-Realization: Moksha (liberation) in Jainism is not annihilation (like in Buddhism) or the cessation of specific qualities (like in Vaisheshika). Instead, it is the soul realizing its true nature as pure consciousness and knowledge. The soul is described as chaitanya (consciousness) and gyanvan (knowledgeable).

Jainism's Impact on Indian Thought and Society:

• Contribution to Indian Peacefulness: The author suggests that Jain thought has significantly contributed to the generally peaceful nature of Indian society. Jain-dominated regions are noted for their tranquility. The ability to consider other perspectives as potentially valid (from a certain viewpoint) is seen as a key factor in adopting a peaceful way of life, and Jain thinkers are credited with fostering this attitude.
• Influence on Modern India: The text draws a parallel between Jain principles and modern Indian ideals of secularism, freedom, and equality. Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of non-violent resistance is cited as a direct influence of Jain thought. The author posits that the current progress of these ideals in India is likely due to the harmonious interplay between ancient philosophical thought and modern circumstances, with Jainism's Anekantavada playing a crucial role in creating a conducive pathway.

In essence, the text argues that Jainism, through its core principles of non-absolutism, non-violence, and self-realization, offers a framework for understanding truth, resolving conflict, and fostering a peaceful and ethical life. Its influence on the broader Indian psyche and its resonance with modern democratic ideals are presented as testament to its enduring relevance.