Jain Aachar Mimansa

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Aachar Mimansa" by Sagarmal Jain, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Jain Aachar Mimansa (Jain Ethical Discourse/Philosophy) Author: Dr. Sagarmal Jain Publisher: Prachya Vidyapith Shajapur

Overall Theme: The book, "Jain Aachar Mimansa," delves deeply into the ethical principles and philosophical underpinnings of Jainism. It aims to explain the Jain perspective on morality, ethical decision-making, and the historical development of these concepts within the Jain tradition, often comparing them with other Indian and Western philosophical schools.

Key Concepts and Sections:

1. Introduction to Ethics and Morality:

   • The book begins by establishing the fundamental difference between humans and animals, highlighting human beings' capacity for rational thought and conscious decision-making, which forms the basis of ethical conduct.
   • It emphasizes that ethics (Nitishastra) provides the framework for discerning right from wrong and guides life towards its ultimate goals.
   • Jain ethics is presented as a system that addresses contemporary moral problems by offering a unique perspective derived from its ancient traditions.

2. Ethical Judgment: Determinism vs. Relativism (Nishchay vs. Vyavahar/Nirapeksha vs. Sapeksha):

   • A significant portion of the initial chapters explores the Jain understanding of ethical judgments, whether they are absolute (Nishchay) or relative (Vyavahar).
   • Jainism is highlighted for its integration of both "Nishchaya Naya" (ultimate truth/essence) and "Vyavahara Naya" (practical truth/convention). Nishchaya Naya defines the ultimate goal (e.g., liberation), while Vyavahara Naya outlines the practical path through conduct to achieve it.
   • The book argues that while the ultimate moral goal is absolute, the specific actions or external behaviors (Achar) are considered relative, influenced by time, place, and individual circumstances (Desh-Kaal-Paristhiti).
   • This concept is further elaborated through "Utsarga Marga" (general path) and "Apavada Marga" (exceptionary path), where Utsarga is the common ethical rule, and Apavada allows for exceptions based on specific situations.
   • The text critically analyzes moral relativism, highlighting its potential pitfalls: overlooking unity in diversity, overemphasizing means over ends, neglecting the internal aspect of actions, undermining free will, and leading to subjectivism.
   • Conversely, absolute moral principles are also discussed, with the acknowledgment that only fundamental rules are absolute, while specific applications can be relative.

3. Basis of Morality: Motive vs. Consequence (Hetu vs. Phal):

   • The book delves into the debate of whether morality is determined by the intention (Motive/Hetu) behind an action or its outcome (Result/Phal).
   • Jainism, it is argued, gives significant importance to the intention (Hetu). Actions are judged as pure or impure based on the underlying motive. The external outcome is not the sole determinant.
   • A detailed critique of "Phalvad" (consequentialism) is presented, citing Jain Acharyas like Kundakunda, Samantabhadra, and Vidyanandi who emphasized the purity of intention over the mere happiness or suffering caused by an action.
   • It's noted that while intention is primary, Jain thought is not entirely one-sided, as the external behavior and its impact are also considered in practice.

4. Theological and Philosophical Underpinnings of Jain Ethics:

   • Tatva Mimansa (Metaphysics/Ontology): Jainism's ontological principles, particularly the concept of "Ananta Dharmatmak Vastu" (an object with infinite attributes), are linked to its ethical framework, especially the principle of Anekantavada (non-absolutism/multi-faceted reality). Anekantavada, when applied to ethics, leads to understanding different perspectives and avoiding rigid judgments, thus fostering conceptual non-violence.
   • Dharma Mimansa (Philosophy of Religion/Dharma): The book connects ethics with the broader concept of Dharma in Jainism. Dharma is understood as the intrinsic nature of an entity (Vastusvabhava Dharma). The ultimate Dharma or goal is the attainment of the soul's natural state of purity, equanimity, and omniscience (Moksha/Nirvana).
   • Charitra Mimansa (Conduct/Action): The practical aspect of Jain ethics is explored through the conduct (Charitra) expected from individuals. This includes the principles of "Samattva" (equanimity) as the moral standard, which manifests as non-violence (Ahimsa), non-attachment (Aparigraha), non-possessiveness, and non-bias (Anekantavada).

5. Comparison with Other Philosophies:

   • Throughout the text, Jain ethical concepts are compared and contrasted with various Western philosophical traditions (e.g., ethical skepticism, rationalism, utilitarianism, existentialism, Marxism, humanism, value theory) and other Indian philosophies (e.g., Buddhism, Vedanta, Nyaya, Mimamsa).
   • The book highlights similarities and differences, often asserting the unique comprehensiveness of the Jain approach.

6. The Role of Conduct (Achar):

   • The text emphasizes the practical application of ethical principles, detailing the ethical codes for both ascetics (Shramans) and householders (Shravakas).
   • Shraman Achar: This section details the rigorous disciplines for monks and nuns, including the five Mahavratas (great vows) of Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya, and Aparigraha, their strict adherence (Nishchaya vs. Vyavahara), and the concept of 'Kalpa' (rules of conduct). It also discusses the 22 Parishahs (hardships to be endured) and the meticulous adherence to 'Gupti' (restraint) and 'Samiti' (carefulness) in all actions.
   • Shravak Achar (Householder's Ethics): The book outlines the responsibilities and ethical guidelines for lay followers. This includes the twelve vows of a Shravak, starting with the five Anuvratas (minor vows) which are less strict versions of the Mahavratas, followed by three Guna Vratas (quality vows) and four Shiksha Vratas (training vows). The importance of these vows for social harmony and individual spiritual progress is highlighted.
   • The book discusses the concept of 'Purusharthas' (goals of human life) – Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha – and how they are understood and integrated within the Jain framework, with Moksha being the ultimate goal, and Dharma guiding Artha and Kama towards it.

7. Ethical Standards and Norms:

   • The text examines various ethical standards proposed across different philosophical traditions and compares them with Jain norms.
   • It discusses the concept of the "Golden Mean" (Arastu's Sthitaprajna) and its resonance with Jain principles of moderation and non-extremism.
   • The importance of intention, control over passions (Kashayas), and the pursuit of the soul's inherent nature (Swadharma) are consistently emphasized.

8. Social and Ethical Relevance:

   • The book argues for the enduring relevance of Jain ethical principles in modern society, particularly concerning issues like economic inequality, social justice, environmental consciousness (through Ahimsa), and personal discipline.
   • It addresses the contemporary challenges to religious and ethical values, urging for a revival of true spiritual practice over mere ritualism and external show.
   • A critical analysis of the current state of the Jain community is presented, highlighting the need for adherence to core principles and the responsibility of both ascetics and householders in preserving Jain tradition.

Key Takeaways:

• Holistic Approach: Jain ethics is presented as a comprehensive system that integrates metaphysical principles, religious goals, and practical conduct.
• Emphasis on Intention: The book strongly advocates for the primacy of intention in ethical evaluation, while not discarding the importance of outward actions.
• Balance of Absolute and Relative: Jain ethics navigates the tension between absolute moral truths and the practical necessity of relative application based on circumstances.
• Personal Responsibility: The core of Jain ethics lies in personal responsibility for one's actions and their consequences, driven by self-awareness and self-control.
• Relevance and Critique: The book is not just descriptive but also offers a critical evaluation of various ethical theories, positioning Jainism as a balanced and profound system.
• Critique of Modern Trends: Dr. Jain also critiques contemporary deviations from core Jain principles, such as the dilution of monastic discipline and the rise of superficial religiosity, emphasizing the need for a return to authentic practice.

In essence, "Jain Aachar Mimansa" is a scholarly and in-depth exploration of Jain ethical philosophy, tracing its roots, principles, and comparative relevance, intended to enlighten and guide both practitioners and scholars of Jainism.