ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 03

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 03," based on the content you've shared:

Overview of the Publication:

"ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 03" is the third volume in a series of study notes compiled by the International School for Jain Studies (ISJS). This particular volume, presented as "Select Papers on Jainism," focuses on Jain history, culture, society, philosophy, and way of life. It is specifically designed for the ISJS program, which is integrated within the American University System, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of Jainism for scholars from diverse international backgrounds. The publication represents version 5.0 and was updated on November 13, 2012.

Key Themes and Content:

The Study Notes are structured into modules covering a wide range of Jain teachings and their contemporary relevance:

• Volume I: Jain History, Society and Culture

  • Covers the historical background of Jainism, including its pre-historic origins, the Tirthankaras (with emphasis on Rishabhadeva, Parshvanatha, and Mahavira), the society during Mahavira's time, and the evolution of Jain sects.
  • Explores Jain society in India and the diaspora, the status of women in Jain society, and the practical application of Jain doctrine.
  • Discusses Jain culture, including its definition, non-material aspects like Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantavada (non-absolutism), and Aparigraha (non-possession).
  • Delves into religious rituals, festivals, pilgrimage sites, Jain arts (sculpture, painting), temple architecture, and iconography.
  • Details the historical development and classification of Jain literature, including canonical texts (Agamas), philosophical works, and Puranas.
  • Highlights the contributions of Jain Acharyas, scholars, and laity to Indian culture.

• Volume II: Jain Philosophy (Metaphysics & Ontology, Epistemology, Karma Doctrine, Ethics, Scriptures)

  • Metaphysics & Ontology: Examines the nature of reality, the concept of substance (dravya), modes, attributes, and the category of existents (astikayas). It details concepts of matter (pudgala) and soul (jiva), the seven verities (tattvas), and the path of spiritual purification leading to Moksha (liberation).
  • Epistemology: Discusses the origin and growth of Jain theory of knowledge, types of knowledge, and methods of acquisition, including the Pramana and Naya doctrines.
  • Karma Doctrine & Spiritual Purification: Focuses on causality, self-effort, and the intricate workings of the Karma doctrine, including karmic particles, their properties, bondage, and the stages of spiritual purification (Gunasthanas).
  • Ethics: Outlines the basis of Jain ethics, primarily Ahimsa, and the conduct expected of monks (major vows, restraint) and laity (minor vows, stages of spiritual advancement).
  • Scriptures: Lists several key Jain scriptures, including Uttaradhyayana Sutra, Ratnakaranda Shravakachara, Saman Suttam, Acharanga Sutra, Samayasara, Bhagwati Sutra, Tattvartha Sutra, Pancastikaya, and Bhagvati Aradhana.

• Volume III: Selected Topics and Application of Jain Doctrine to Resolve Modern Day Issues

  • This volume focuses on applying Jain principles to contemporary challenges.
  • Special Topics: Includes discussions on the relevance of Sallekhana (voluntary peaceful death) today, its comparison with euthanasia, and its empirical data. It also covers Leshya (aura/psychic disposition) and its transformation, with potential scientific correlations to bio-photons and aura.
  • Applications of Ahimsa: Explores the comprehensive concept of Ahimsa and its application in real life, human rights and Jain Dharma, Ahimsa in education to enhance wellness in schools, and Jain diet.
  • Jain Philosophy in Modern Context: Discusses Anekantavada (multiplicity of viewpoints) in social life, its metaphysical and spiritual perspectives, and its role in fostering tolerance, love, and friendship. It also delves into Jain economics philosophy and its relevance to modern times, emphasizing concepts like Aparigraha (non-possession) and limiting desires.
  • Spirituality and Organization Excellence: Examines the Jain view on spirituality and organizational excellence, drawing parallels between Jain organizational structures and modern management principles.
  • Bio-Ethics: Analyzes bio-medical ethics in Jain texts, including perspectives on abortion, artificial procreation, contraception, euthanasia, organ donation, gene therapy, cloning, and end-of-life care like Sallekhana.
  • Jain Theism and Guņānuvāda: Explores the nature of divinity in Jainism, challenging the label of "atheism" and proposing "gunanutheism" (worship of divine qualities) as a more accurate descriptor.
  • Idealism and Realism: Compares Idealism and Realism in Western and Indian philosophies, including Jain theories of reality.
  • Discipline: Details the discipline required for spiritual, social, and family welfare in Jainism, outlining the Mahavratas, Guptis, and Samitis for ascetics, and the Anuvratas and other vows for householders.
  • Human Rights and Jain Dharma: Analyzes how Jain principles like Ahimsa, Anekantavada, and non-possession align with and provide a foundation for human rights, both historically and in contemporary Indian constitutional law.

Core Jain Principles Highlighted:

The study notes consistently emphasize several foundational Jain principles:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence): The paramount principle, extended beyond mere physical non-harm to encompass non-violence in thought, speech, and action, and applied to all living beings, including plants and micro-organisms.
• Anekantavada (Non-absolutism/Multiplicity of Viewpoints): The understanding that reality is multifaceted and can be perceived from multiple perspectives, promoting tolerance and reducing conflict.
• Aparigraha (Non-possession/Non-attachment): The principle of limiting desires and possessions to foster detachment, reduce worldly entanglement, and promote equitable distribution.
• Karma Doctrine: The belief that actions (karma) have consequences that shape an individual's present and future lives, emphasizing personal responsibility and the potential for spiritual purification.
• Sallekhana: A voluntary, peaceful, and systematic process of preparing for death with equanimity, distinct from euthanasia, and seen as a means of spiritual liberation.
• Guņānuvāda: The concept of worshipping and emulating the divine qualities of perfected souls (Arhats and Siddhas) to foster them within oneself.
• Self-Control (Samyama): Essential for managing passions (kashayas) and controlling the mind, speech, and body to minimize karmic influx.
• Equanimity (Samata): A state of mental balance and impartiality towards all beings, a key aspect of Ahimsa.

Educational Approach:

The ISJS program aims to provide a "one-stop reference" for participants, serving as a guide for further research. The curriculum is continuously updated based on feedback from visiting scholars, with papers offering references for deeper study. The publication reflects a blend of academic rigor and practical application, integrating Jain teachings with modern scientific and social contexts.

In essence, "ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 03" is a comprehensive academic resource that delves into the multifaceted aspects of Jainism, from its historical roots and philosophical underpinnings to its ethical framework and practical applications in addressing contemporary global issues.