ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 01

The book "ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 01" published by the International School for Jain Studies (ISJS) is a comprehensive collection of select papers on Jainism, designed for the ISJS program integrated within the American University System. This version V.5.0 has been reorganized into three volumes: Volume I (Jain History, Society and Culture), Volume II (Jain Philosophy including Karma Doctrine), and Volume III (Selected topics and application of Jain doctrine to resolve modern day issues).

The study notes aim to provide a one-stop reference for participants of the school and serve as a guide for further research, covering religion, philosophy, cosmology, metaphysics, psychology, ethics, history, culture, preceptors, sects, rituals, art, and pilgrimages. The curriculum is continuously updated based on feedback from visiting scholars from various countries.

Key Themes and Content:

The book begins with a foundational verse from the Saman Suttam emphasizing non-violence, self-restraint, and austerity as Dharma. The publisher expresses thanks to scholars and alumni for their contributions, highlighting the collaborative effort in compiling these notes.

The syllabus outlines a structured approach to learning Jainism:

• Modules covering Jain History, Society, and Culture: This includes pre-history, time cycles, Tirthankaras, life and teachings of Mahavira, the evolution of sects, important personalities, contemporary Jainism, Jain society in India and the diaspora, the status of women, and cultural aspects like Ahinsa, Anekant, and Aparigraha. It also delves into religious rituals, art, sculpture, temple architecture, iconography, literature (canonical and non-canonical), and the contributions of Jain ācāryas.
• Modules on Jain Philosophy: This section covers metaphysics and ontology, the nature of reality, substance (dravya), matter (pudgala), soul (jiva), the seven verities (tattvas), cosmology, epistemology (theory of knowledge, Pramana and Naya doctrines), Anekantavada, and Syadvada.
• Modules on Karma Doctrine and Spiritual Purification/Psychology: This includes causality, self-effort, the concept of karma, bondage, and the path to spiritual purification (Moksa marga), stages of spiritual purification (gunasthanas), and comparisons with other philosophical systems.
• Modules on Ethics: This covers the basis of ethics (Ahimsa), conduct of monks and laity, power of vows, purity of food, essential duties, and penance (Yoga) and meditation.
• Modules on Special Topics: This broad category addresses the integration of science and spirituality, scientific explanations of practices, the concept of Leshya, applications of Ahinsa in business, education, ecology, and terrorism management, non-violent food, and Jainism and Gandhi.
• Modules on Scriptures: A list of key Jain scriptures like Uttaradhyayana, Ratna Karanada Shravakachara, Saman Suttam, Acharanga Sutra, Samayasara, Bhagavati Sutra, Tattvartha Sutra, Pancastikaya, and Bhagavati Aradhana are highlighted.
• Modules on Social Interactions and Pilgrimages: These modules focus on practical observations and interactions within Jain institutions, with monks and nuns, and visits to significant pilgrimage sites.

Key Doctrinal Principles Highlighted:

The study notes emphasize several core tenets of Jainism:

• Ahinsa (Non-violence): Presented as the supreme spiritual virtue and the bedrock of Jain ethics, encompassing thought, word, and deed. Its relevance in resolving modern issues like terrorism and ecology is stressed.
• Aparigraha (Non-possession): Advocated as a way of life to curb greed, foster restraint, and promote judicious use of resources, crucial in an era of consumerism.
• Anekanta (Multiplicity of Viewpoints): Presented as a key to understanding reality and resolving conflicts, promoting tolerance and mutual understanding in society.
• Syadvada (Conditional Dialectic): The method of speech that complements Anekanta, allowing for the expression of partial truths without negating other perspectives.
• Karma Doctrine: Explained as a fundamental principle of cause and effect, shaping an individual's experiences and future rebirths.
• Individual Effort for Liberation: Jainism emphasizes self-reliance and personal effort in achieving spiritual purification and liberation (moksa), rather than relying on divine intervention.
• Reincarnation and Liberation: The transmigration of the soul is a central belief, with liberation being the ultimate goal of freeing the soul from karmic bondage.
• The Path to Liberation: This path is defined by the practice of Right Faith (Samyak Darshan), Right Knowledge (Samyak Jnana), and Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra).
• Pañca Paramesthi: The five supreme auspicious beings (Arihanta, Siddha, Acarya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu) are venerated as ideals to be emulated.
• Namokara Mahamantra: This primary mantra of the Jains is salutation to the Pañca Paramesthi, believed to annihilate sins and bestow auspiciousness.
• Jainism and Social Responsibility: The text highlights the significant contributions of the Jain community to society through education, healthcare, philanthropy, and the establishment of numerous institutions.
• Jainism and Environmentalism: The profound emphasis on respecting all forms of life, including elements and plants, underscores Jainism's ecological consciousness.
• Jainism and Vegetarianism: Presented not just as a dietary choice but as a way of life grounded in Ahinsa, compassion, and environmental consciousness.
• Jainism and Gender Equality: While acknowledging historical patriarchal structures and debates within texts regarding women's spiritual potential, the texts also highlight historical instances of women's significant roles in Jainism and Mahavira's progressive stance on women's religious freedom.
• Jain Art and Architecture: The book showcases the rich artistic heritage of Jainism, exemplified by the intricate carvings and architectural marvels of temples like Ranakpur and Dilwara, as well as sculptures and paintings found across India.
• Jain Acāryas: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the lives and contributions of influential Jain ācāryas who shaped Jain philosophy, logic, and literature through their extensive works.

The study notes aim to provide a holistic understanding of Jainism, connecting its ancient doctrines to contemporary issues and showcasing its relevance in the modern world. The detailed listing of faculty and their specializations, along with contact information, further emphasizes the academic rigor and accessibility of the ISJS program.This comprehensive summary highlights the key aspects of "ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 01" published by the International School for Jain Studies.

Core Purpose and Structure: The book is designed as a collection of academic papers for the ISJS program, integrated within the American University System. It aims to provide a thorough understanding of Jainism, covering its history, society, culture, philosophy, ethics, and practical applications. The content is structured into three volumes:

• Volume I: Jain History, Society, and Culture.
• Volume II: Jain Philosophy, including the Karma doctrine.
• Volume III: Selected topics and applications of Jain doctrine to resolve contemporary issues.

Foundational Principles: The book opens with the verse "Dhammo Mangalamukkiththam, Ahimsa Sanjamo Tavo" (Non-violence, self-restraint, and austerity are the highest Dharma), underscoring the central role of these principles in Jainism. The core philosophy revolves around achieving spiritual purification and liberation through individual effort.

Key Themes and Content Areas:

1. History and Society:

   • Antiquity: Jainism's ancient origins are traced through archaeological evidence (Mohanjodaro excavations) and textual references, suggesting a history predating Mahavira.
   • Tirthankaras: The lives and teachings of the Tirthankaras, particularly Rishabhnath, Parshvanatha, and Mahavira, are discussed. Mahavira is presented as a rejuvenator of ancient principles.
   • Social Structure: Jain society is described as religious, peace-loving, non-violent, valuing education, and contributing significantly to India's GDP despite being a small minority. Their extensive work in establishing schools, hospitals, and research institutes is highlighted.
   • Jain Diaspora: The migration of Jains to North America, Europe, East Africa, and other parts of the world is discussed, noting their establishment of strong community infrastructures and educational initiatives.
   • Sects: The basic division into Digambara and Svetambara sects, with further subdivisions, is mentioned.
   • Status of Women: Jainism's relatively progressive stance on women's education and religious participation is discussed, contrasting it with patriarchal norms in other traditions. The historical and contemporary roles of women, including ascetics (Sadhvis), are explored, alongside debates within Jain texts regarding women's spiritual liberation.

2. Philosophy and Doctrine:

   • Nature of Reality: Jainism posits an eternal universe with continuous change, governed by substances (dravya) that possess attributes and undergo modes. Reality is classified into sentient (jiva) and insentient (ajiva) beings.
   • Karma Doctrine: A unique contribution of Jainism, explaining how subtle matter particles (karmas) bond with the soul due to passions and activities, leading to bondage and transmigration. The path to liberation involves shedding these karmas.
   • Tattvas (Verities): The seven tattvas (jiva, ajiva, asrava, bandha, samvara, nirjara, moksa) are central to understanding the soul's journey.
   • Ahimsa (Non-violence): Defined comprehensively, encompassing thought, word, and deed, not just towards humans but all living beings, including microscopic organisms and elemental bodies. It's presented as the supreme spiritual virtue and the basis of Jain ethics.
   • Aparigraha (Non-possession): Advocated as a principle for limiting desires, possessions, and attachments, crucial for spiritual progress and addressing societal issues like consumerism and inequality.
   • Anekanta (Multiplicity of Viewpoints): The doctrine that truth is infinite and can be understood from multiple perspectives, promoting tolerance and conflict resolution.
   • Syadvada (Conditional Dialectic): The method of speech that expresses partial truths, reflecting the Anekanta principle.
   • Path to Liberation (Moksa Marga): Consists of Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct.
   • Pañca Paramesthi: The five supreme beings (Arihanta, Siddha, Acarya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu) are venerated as ideals.
   • Namokara Mahamantra: The primary mantra of salutation to the Pañca Paramesthi.

3. Practices and Rituals:

   • Worship (Puja): Discusses both material (dravya) and mental (bhava) puja, its performance by laity, similarities and differences with Hindu puja, and the concept of Jinas as ideals rather than intercessors.
   • Festivals: Explains festivals like Paryushana/Das Lakṣaṇa, Astāhnikā, Diwali, Mahavira Jayanti, and Raksha Bandhan, highlighting their spiritual significance beyond mere celebration.
   • Pilgrimages (Tirthayatra): Describes various pilgrimage sites (Siddha Kṣetra, Kalyāṇaka Kṣetra, Atiśaya Kṣetra, Kalā Kṣetra) and their importance for spiritual purification and breaking the monotony of daily life.
   • Asceticism: Details the rigorous practices of monks and nuns, including vows, carefulness, restraints, and penance, emphasizing the profound role of women ascetics in Jain tradition.

4. Art, Literature, and Architecture:

   • Jain Painting: Discusses the evolution of Jain miniature painting, its distinctive features (linear energy, angular outlines, use of gold and colors), and its presence in palm-leaf and paper manuscripts, with notable centers in Gujarat and Rajasthan.
   • Jaina Sculpture: Covers the development of Jaina iconography from early periods to medieval times, the representation of Tirthankaras (especially Mahavira, Parsvanatha, Adinatha), attendant deities (Yakshas and Yakshis), and the assimilation of Brahmanical deities with Jain interpretations. The unique figure of Bahubali/Gommatesvara is also highlighted.
   • Jaina Architecture: Explores Vastuśāstra from a Jain perspective, discussing residential architecture, the role of architects, and the symbolic significance of temple designs, including the Panca-ratha and Mandala concepts found in temples like Ranakpur and Dilwara.
   • Jaina Narrative Literature: Covers the rich tradition of stories and legends in Prakrit, Sanskrit, and other languages, including Dharmakathas, Arthakathas, Kamakathas, and allegorical works like Samayasara and Tiloyapannatti. The role of Prakrit as the language of Mahavira's teachings and its impact on Indian languages is emphasized.

5. Relevance and Applications:

   • Social Work: Highlights the significant philanthropic activities of the Jain community in education (schools, colleges, universities), healthcare (hospitals, camps, alternative medicine), support for the weaker sections (orphanages, old age homes), disaster management, ecology, and research in arts and philosophy.
   • Jainism and Modern Issues: The texts discuss how Jain principles like Ahimsa, Aparigraha, and Anekanta can be applied to address contemporary challenges such as environmental degradation, terrorism, economic imbalances, and health issues like HIV/AIDS.
   • Gender Equality: The book reflects on the historical debates and contemporary realities of gender roles and equality within Jainism, acknowledging both the patriarchal influences and the progressive elements in Jain teachings and practices, particularly regarding women ascetics and Mahavira's reforms.

Overall, "ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 01" serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the multifaceted nature of Jainism, emphasizing its ethical framework, philosophical depth, rich cultural heritage, and its enduring relevance in contemporary society.