Jain Concept Of Living

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain Concept of Living based on the provided text:

The book, "Jain Concept of Living" by Dr. J. D. Bhomaj, explores the fundamental principles that guide a Jain's life. It asserts that any claim of superiority must be substantiated by demonstrable proof and real experience, rejecting blind faith or superstition. The core of Jainism lies in the knowability of all reality, emphasizing that existence is synonymous with knowability.

Key Tenets of the Jain Way of Life:

• Self-Reliance and Self-Knowledge: Jains do not depend on a Creator God, supreme soul, angels, or apostles. Their focus is on the realization of the Self, which they consider the ultimate knower and knowable. Knowledge of the Self is paramount, akin to light illuminating itself before illuminating others. The Jina (conqueror) strives for this direct, continuous experience of the Self, considering even "Godhood" secondary.

• The Unique "Seed of Life": The Jain approach is described as having a unique "seed of life," leading to a distinct way of living. While individuals share common biological and mental drives (food, sleep, emotions, etc.), the inner power and inclinations of a Jain guide their behavior towards spiritual advancement. Unlike others who might follow the natural flow of life downwards, Jains strive to ascend, becoming lighter through austerity rather than indulgence.

• Individuality and Self-Development: A Jain is encouraged to exist as a single, free unit, developing their individuality through distinct virtues and characteristics. This self-development is crucial for personal achievement and societal contribution. Neglecting the self leads to regression and potentially demon-like behavior, as the mind, if not engaged in good deeds, will gravitate towards evil.

• Mastery over the Body and Senses: While acknowledging the necessity of the physical body and its needs, Jains aim to be masters of their biological and psycho-mental faculties, rather than slaves to them. The body is a tool to serve the human cause of spiritual progress, not an end in itself. This requires deliberate discipline and the regulation of activities towards spiritual goals.

• Discernment and Right Conduct: The text outlines seven classes of individuals based on their approach to life. Jains categorically reject the first four, which include those lacking self-awareness, embracing superstition passively, practicing hypocrisy, and being led astray by egoism. Jains align themselves with the remaining three: those who are aware of the right path and traverse it, those who strive hard, and those who successfully navigate the right course. This adherence to the right path is driven by discernment, the ability to differentiate between the self and the non-self, and to distinguish good from bad.

• The Three Pillars of Living: The Jain way of life is analyzed through three interconnected aspects:

  • Bio-Physical Life: Maintaining the body's health and vigor, including the senses, respiratory system, and basic drives like hunger and sleep. However, these are to be managed, not indulged in excessively.
  • Psycho-Mental Life: Controlling emotions, passions (revenge, greed, lust), and impulses. These can be channeled for wholesome living, leading to social morality and personal morale, or they can lead to destructive actions.
  • Religio-Spiritual Life: Through personal control and mental discipline, one advances towards virtuous living. This involves mastering passions, cultivating right knowledge, faith, and spiritual conduct, often through abstinence and austerity.

• The Ascending Path and Self-Realization: The essence of a Jain's life is continuous improvement and ascension. This is achieved through the power of knowledge, belief, and conduct of the soul. Self-realization, the direct experience of the soul's eternal awareness and attributes, is the ultimate goal. This stage brings discernment, allowing for a clear separation of bio-physical drives from spiritual vitality and a rational approach to all aspects of life.

• Self-Theism and Inward Peace: Jain belief is centered on the Self, leading to "Self-Theism." Their theism is established in knowing and realizing the Self within, not through external entities. This inward focus brings contentment, satiability, and peace of mind, freeing them from addiction and uncontrolled desires. They become masters of their senses and passions, directing them towards their spiritual pursuits.

• Lenity and Universalism: The realization of the Self eliminates confusion, illusion, and duality. A Jain cultivates lenity (gentleness, kindness), leading to equality, fraternity, and universal liberty. Their policy is "Live, let live, and help to live-on." They avoid harmful actions and embrace wholesome living, contributing to peace and cooperation in social life.

• The Blossoms of Jainism: Jainism, or "Jinology," is practical and universal, not merely a set of doctrines. It is based on the pure knowledge of universal substances. A Jina is invincible because they have conquered their Self. A true Jain exemplifies their philosophy in practice, exhibiting universal friendship, compassion, and a non-judgmental attitude. Their lives are characterized by peace, cooperation, and freedom from conflict and criminality, leading to infinite bliss, knowledge, and virtue. The Jain concept of living blossoms into a pure, virtuous, and eternal status for the soul, benefiting not only the individual but also others.

In essence, the Jain Concept of Living is a path of self-discovery, self-mastery, and ethical conduct, driven by the pursuit of spiritual knowledge and the ultimate realization of the soul's true nature.