Gems Of Jainism

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Gems of Jainism" by Dr. Hemant Shah, based on the content of the first few chapters:

Overview of "Gems of Jainism"

"Gems of Jainism" by Dr. Hemant Shah is a collection of essays that delve into various philosophical and religious aspects of Jainism. The author, a Jain by birth and a devoted scholar, aims to present these "gems" of Jain thought without claiming superiority for Jainism over other Indian philosophical systems. The book clarifies that the title "Gems of Jainism" refers to invaluable ideas and thoughts within Jainism, acknowledging that the vastness of Jain literature contains countless more.

Key Themes and Chapters Explored:

The book is structured to provide a foundational understanding of Jainism within the broader context of Indian Philosophy, before delving into specific doctrines.

1. Jainism in Indian Philosophy: This introductory chapter positions Jainism as one of the nine major schools of Indian Philosophy, emphasizing its ancient origins and unique contributions. It highlights commonalities across Indian philosophical systems, such as the pursuit of truth, the goal of alleviating suffering, the acceptance of causality and the Law of Karma, and the concept of liberation (Moksha). The author notes that Jainism, while heterodox (not accepting Vedic authority), has a distinct and significant place due to its realistic and pluralistic approach, its unique epistemology, and its ethical framework.

2. Jain Absolute: This chapter tackles the common misconception that Jainism is atheistic. The author argues that the Jain doctrine of Syadvada (relativism) logically implies an Absolute. Furthermore, the Jain concept of liberated souls (Jivas) who all possess infinite knowledge, power, and bliss suggests an ontological unity that can be interpreted as a form of "latent God" (pracchanna Ishwara).

3. Jain Theism - (Concept of God in Jainism): This chapter directly addresses the question of God in Jainism. The author distinguishes between the Western and Indian concepts of God. While Jainism does not believe in a creator God in the traditional Western sense, it believes in a Godhood attained through perfect practice of the religion. This "God" is an enlightened soul, a liberated soul possessing infinite knowledge, power, and bliss. The chapter argues that Jainism is fundamentally theistic, as it acknowledges and reveres these perfected souls (Tirthankaras and Siddhas) as divine beings. The author debunks the reasons why Jainism is often misunderstood as atheistic, citing its rejection of Vedic authority, its emphasis on self-effort, and its detailed Law of Karma. The chapter provides scriptural and literary arguments to support its claim of Jain Theism.

4. Types of Knowledge (Jnana) in Jainism: This chapter delves into Jain epistemology, focusing on the classification of knowledge. It posits that the soul, by its inherent nature, has the capacity for infinite knowledge, which is obscured by karmic obstructions. Jainism categorizes knowledge into two main types: Darsana (perception/sensation of generalities) and Jnana (cognition/knowledge of particulars). Valid knowledge is further divided into five types: Mati (sensuous), Sruta (authoritative/verbal), Avadhi (clairvoyant), Manah-paryaya (telepathic), and Kevala (omniscience). The chapter emphasizes that the ultimate aim is Kevala Jnana, perfect and complete knowledge.

5. Jain Theory and Practice of Anekanta: This chapter explains Anekantavada, the Jain doctrine of non-absolutism or manifoldness of reality. It asserts that reality is complex and has infinite aspects, and our knowledge is always partial and relative. Syadvada, the theory of conditional predication, is presented as the logical extension of Anekantavada. The author clarifies that Anekantavada is not skepticism but a realistic approach to truth, acknowledging that different viewpoints can be valid under specific conditions. The chapter also discusses the practice of Anekantavada, emphasizing qualities like equanimity, tolerance, objectivity, and mindfulness.

6. Reason and Faith in Jainism: This chapter explores the interplay between reason and faith in Jainism. It argues that both are crucial for spiritual progress. While Eastern thought often emphasizes intuition, Jainism integrates reason and faith, recognizing that reason has limitations, and intuition (faith) can lead to higher knowledge. The author stresses that faith in Jainism is not blind belief but a form of trust and understanding that complements rational inquiry.

7. Values in Jainism for the Modern World: This chapter highlights the enduring relevance of Jain values in contemporary society. It identifies the five cardinal vows of Jainism – Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Aparigraha (non-possession), and Brahmacarya (celibacy) – as timeless moral principles. The author argues that these values, particularly Ahimsa and Aparigraha, offer solutions to modern crises like violence, inequality, and materialism, promoting peace and harmonious coexistence.

8. Jainism, Fundamentalism and Peaceful Society: This chapter contrasts Jainism with fundamentalism. It defines fundamentalism as an unyielding adherence to texts without interpretation, often leading to the use of force and violence. The author asserts that Jainism, with its principles of non-absolutism (Anekantavada) and freedom of choice, is inherently opposed to fundamentalism. The chapter concludes that Jainism's emphasis on Ahimsa, friendliness, compassion, and neutrality provides a pathway to a peaceful society, free from the conflicts and violence propagated by fundamentalism.

9. Freedom, Obligations and Rights: A Jaina Perspective: This chapter examines the Jain understanding of freedom, obligations, and rights. It explains that freedom in Jainism is not primarily social or political but spiritual – the liberation of the soul from karmic bondage. While obligations (Vratas) are prescribed to achieve this spiritual freedom, rights are seen as arising from karma and in relation to obligations. The ultimate state of liberation is one of absolute freedom, where obligations cease to exist.

10. Nature of Salvation - (A Jain Point of View): This chapter details the Jain concept of Moksha, or liberation. It explains that the soul, by its nature, is pure and possesses infinite qualities, but is currently in a state of bondage due to karmic accumulation. Salvation is achieved through the complete annihilation of karma, leading the soul to regain its pristine state of infinite knowledge, perception, power, and bliss. The chapter outlines the stages of spiritual development (Gunasthanas) that lead to this ultimate liberation.

11. The Relevance of Teachings of Lord Mahavira: This concluding chapter emphasizes the profound and lasting relevance of Lord Mahavira's teachings for the modern world. It highlights his core principles of Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Aparigraha, and Brahmacarya, and how they offer solutions to contemporary issues such as violence, greed, social inequality, and spiritual crises. The author argues that Mahavira's emphasis on self-effort, purity of thought and action, and universal tolerance provides a path towards personal and societal well-being.

In essence, "Gems of Jainism" serves as an accessible and insightful exploration of Jain philosophy and religion, presenting its core tenets and their enduring applicability to the human condition.