Introduction To Jainsim

This document is an introductory book on Jainism, published by Jain Mitra Mandal. The book is the second edition of a treatise explaining the basic principles of Jainism by Dewan Bahadur A.B. Lathe, who adapted a Marathi lecture by Mr. Hirachand Nemchand. The publication was made possible by the generous donation of M/s. Mahabir Pershad & Sons, Delhi.

The book aims to explain Jainism in a clear and brief manner, dispelling common misconceptions. It covers the following aspects:

1. Meaning of Jainism:

• Jainism is the religion preached by the "Jineshwars," who have conquered passions and eight Karmas.
• Jains are divided into three sects: Digambars, Shwetambars, and Dhundias, with minor differences in image worship and ascetic practices.

2. Jain Principles:

• Seven Principles: Jeeva (life), Ajeeva (matter), Asrava (path of Karma), Bandha (bondage of Karma), Sanvar (prevention of Asrava), Nirjara (partial destruction of Karma), and Moksha (total deliverance).
• Importance of Moksha: Moksha, or freedom from Karma, is the ultimate goal, offering eternal happiness free from pain.
• Jeeva and Ajeeva: Jeeva (sentient being) is distinct from Ajeeva (matter). Ajeeva is further categorized into Pudgal, Dharma, Adharma, Akash, and Kal.
• Asrava: The "inlets" for karmas, formed by soul's attachment or aversion to objects perceived through senses and mind. Asrava can be auspicious (Shubha) or inauspicious (Ashubha), leading to different destinies.
• Eight Karmas: Gyana-varniya, Darshana-varniya, Mohaniya, Vedaniya, Ayu, Nam, Gotra, and Antaraya. Each karma is associated with specific causes or "Asravas."
• Bandha (Bondage): The mutual entry of soul and Karma particles, likened to a heated iron ball absorbing water. Bandha is categorized into Prakriti (qualities), Sthiti (duration), Anubhag (intensity of results), and Pradesh (extent of attachment).
• Modes of Karma: Satta (previous bondage), Bandha (new acquisition), and Udaya (beginning of results).
• Sanvar (Prevention): Stopping the influx of karmas through practices like Guptis (control of mind, speech, body), Samitis (careful conduct), Dharmas (ten virtues), Anuprekshas (meditations), Parishaha Jayas (conquest of hardships), and Tapas (austerities).
• Nirjara (Destruction): Partial destruction of karmas through suffering them out or bringing them to maturity prematurely.
• Moksha (Deliverance): Complete freedom from all karmas, resulting in the soul's pure state of infinite wisdom, insight, and bliss.

3. Stages of Initiation (Gunasthanas):

• The text describes fourteen stages of spiritual progress, from complete delusion (Mithyatva) to the state of pure contemplation and liberation.
• Three Jewels: Right Faith (Samyaktva), Right Knowledge (Samyak Gyan), and Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra) are essential for liberation.
• Shravaka (Layman): A Jain layman observes vows partially and progresses through eleven stages, starting from the Darshan stage and progressing through Vrita (vows) and Shiksha Vritas (disciplinary vows).
• Vows: The five Anuvritas (minor vows) include non-killing, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession. These are elaborated with associated "faults" to be avoided.
• Gun Vritas: Three vows that elevate the Anuvritas to a higher level.
• Shiksha Vritas: Four vows that further refine conduct: Deshavakashiksha, Samayika (daily duties), Proshadhopavas (fasting), and Dana (charity).
• Shalyas (Darts): Three impurities to be overcome: Maya (deception), Mithyatva (falsehood), and Nidan (covetousness).
• Sallekhana: A vow of peaceful death observed when death is imminent, involving detachment and renunciation.
• Asceticism: The text describes the rigorous practices of Jain monks, including 28 primary qualities and adherence to strict rules of conduct.

4. Nature of Sin and Virtue:

• Sin is attributed to false beliefs, passions, and unethical actions.
• Virtue lies in compassion, benevolence, charity, celibacy, and adherence to Jain principles, not in rituals or external observances.

5. Image Worship:

• Images of Jineshwars are worshipped as reminders of their virtues and as embodiments of perfect contemplation.
• The worship is directed towards the represented virtues, not the material of the image.
• Jain images are depicted as naked, without ornaments, and in postures of meditation.

6. Resemblance of Jainism with Other Religions:

• Jainism shares core principles with Hinduism, Zoroastrianism, Islam, and Christianity, such as the immortality of the soul, the law of karma, and the importance of ethical conduct.
• The text highlights similarities in vegetarianism, temperance, and the emphasis on non-killing.

7. Jain Logic (Anekantvad):

• Anekantvad is central to Jain philosophy, emphasizing the multi-faceted nature of reality and truth.
• It critiques monistic views (Ekantvad) like Bhavaikant and Abhavaikant, advocating for a balanced perspective.
• Syadvad, a logical framework, allows for multiple, seemingly contradictory predicates to apply to a single object from different viewpoints.
• The text discusses the role of time, space, matter, and quality in shaping our understanding of reality.

8. Jain Ethics and Social Welfare:

• Jainism promotes individual and national welfare through its emphasis on morality, mutual trust, and ethical conduct.
• The Jain community is presented as materially prosperous and morally upright, with a low crime rate.
• The principles of Jainism, particularly Ahimsa (non-killing), are discussed in relation to societal roles, including that of warriors.

9. Critique of Other Philosophical Systems:

• The book engages with and critiques various philosophical schools, including Vedanta, Buddhism, and Nyaya, highlighting their limitations from a Jain perspective.
• It emphasizes that Jainism is a practical philosophy focused on ethical development and self-realization.

10. The Theory of God:

• Jainism defines God not as a creator but as an omniscient, liberated soul (Jin) who has attained perfection.
• It rejects the notion of a creator God who intervenes in human affairs or grants boons.
• The concept of God in Jainism is presented as a wise man's God, devoid of superstitions.

11. Jain Kings and Influence:

• The text mentions historical Jain kings and patrons of Jainism, indicating its influence in ancient Indian society.

12. Jainism and Atheism:

• The book addresses the charge of atheism leveled against Jainism, refuting it by explaining Jainism's belief in an omniscient, auspicious soul (Jin) and its adherence to the law of karma.
• Jainism is presented as a theistic religion in its own unique way, focusing on the inherent divinity of the soul.

In essence, "Introduction to Jainism" by Dewan Bahadur A.B. Lathe provides a comprehensive overview of Jain philosophy, ethics, and practices, emphasizing its rational approach, emphasis on self-discipline, and its contribution to human welfare.