Jain Darshan Astik Darshan

This document, titled "Jain Darshan: Astik Darshan" (Jain Philosophy: Theistic Philosophy) by Amarmuni, addresses the misconception that Jainism is an atheistic religion. The author argues strongly that Jainism is, in fact, a theistic (astik) religion, and labels used by others are based on misinterpretations and sectarian bias.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the key points presented in the text:

1. The Problem of Sectarianism and Mislabeling:

• The text begins by highlighting how religious sectarianism leads to the condemnation of other faiths and the propagation of hatred.
• It criticizes the tendency for individuals to blindly label opposing religious groups based on their own prejudices, without considering the truth or consequences of their statements.
• The author specifically addresses the accusation that Jainism is a "nastik" (atheistic/non-believer) religion, calling this assertion "completely inconsistent," "illogical," and "false."

2. The Historical Origin of the "Nastik" Label:

• The author explains that the accusation of Jainism being "nastik" stems from the historical opposition by certain Brahmins to Lord Mahavir's rejection of Vedic rituals and animal sacrifices (Yajna).
• When Lord Mahavir challenged the practice of animal sacrifice, he also questioned the authority of the Vedas, which supported these rituals.
• This led to the argument by some Brahmins that anyone who does not accept or criticizes the Vedas is a "nastik" ("nastiko ved-nindakah" - one who criticizes the Vedas is an atheist).
• The author criticizes this approach, stating that responding to logical arguments with abuse and prejudice is a sign of stubbornness and sectarian bias, not a true test of truth.

3. Rebuttal of the "Nastik" Accusation Based on Vedas:

• The text clarifies that Jainism does not oppose the Vedas out of animosity or ill will.
• The "opposition" to the Vedas is due to their endorsement of violent rituals like "ajamedha" and "ashvamedha" (animal sacrifices).
• Jainism, being a proponent of compassion and non-violence (ahimsa), cannot tolerate the slaughter of innocent animals in the name of religion.
• The author suggests that if Vedic followers can call Jains "nastik" for not accepting the Vedas, then Jains could also call Vedic followers "nastik" for criticizing Jain scriptures. However, the author discourages this retaliatory labeling, emphasizing that it's not a sound argument.
• The fundamental point is that a religion cannot be deemed "nastik" simply for not accepting another religion's scriptures, as this would lead to all religions being labeled as such due to their differing practices and beliefs.

4. Jainism's Concept of God (Parmatma):

• Another reason often cited for calling Jainism "nastik" is the belief that it doesn't recognize God. The author refutes this by explaining Jainism's concept of "Parmatma."
• Jainism defines "Parmatma" as a soul that is completely free from attachment and aversion (raag-dwesh), liberated from the cycle of birth and death (janm-maran), possesses omniscience (kevalgyan) and omni-vision (kevaldarshan), and is devoid of a physical body, senses, karma, and the fruits of karma. Such a liberated soul is considered eternal, intelligent, and free.
• Jainism believes that every soul has the potential to attain this state of "Parmatma" through the practice of detachment (veetaraag-bhaav).

5. Rebuttal of the "No God" Accusation:

• The author addresses the argument that Jains are "nastik" because they don't believe in God in the same way as Vedic followers.
• The text points out that even within Vedic traditions, there are diverse interpretations of God's nature (e.g., Sanatan Dharma vs. Arya Samaj).
• It asks, if simply believing in God makes one theistic, then Jainism, which believes in the "Parmatma" according to its own definition, is also theistic, perhaps even "Param Astik" (supremely theistic).
• The author argues that defining one's own concept of God and rejecting another's is not a basis for calling the other "nastik"; it's merely a difference of opinion or sectarian prejudice.

6. Jainism's View on the Creator of the Universe:

• Some scholars claim Jains are "nastik" because they don't consider God the creator of the universe.
• The author argues that a "Parmatma" who is free from attachment and aversion (veetaraag) would not create a universe filled with suffering and contradictions.
• Furthermore, a bodiless entity cannot create anything. Therefore, the concept of God as the creator of the universe is not logically supported in Jainism.
• The author uses an analogy: if someone were to say that a human without wings is "nastik," it would be absurd. Similarly, not adhering to a particular concept of God's role as a creator doesn't make a religion "nastik."

7. Defining "Astik" and "Nastik" Philosophically:

• The text delves into the philosophical definition of "astik" and "nastik" by referencing Sanskrit grammar.
• It cites Maharshi Panini's Ashtadhyayi (Sutra 4.1.60: "Astinasti dishtam matih") and Bhattōji Dikshit's commentary in Siddhanta Kaumudi.
• According to this grammatical interpretation, an "astik" is one who believes in the existence of the afterlife (paralok), and a "nastik" is one who does not.
• The author contrasts this grammatical definition with the accusations. Jainism believes in the soul (atma), the liberated soul (Parmatma), the soul's potential, the afterlife, reincarnation, karma, bondage, and liberation. All these are fundamental tenets of a theistic belief system.

8. Conclusion:

• The text concludes by reiterating that Jainism is a profoundly theistic philosophy.
• It emphasizes the core Jain principles of non-violence, compassion, truthfulness, self-control, and the pursuit of liberation, exemplified by figures like Lord Mahavir.
• The author firmly asserts that any religion characterized by such values and a belief in the spiritual potential of the soul cannot be called "nastik."
• To label Jainism as "nastik" is to ignore its philosophical depth and resort to baseless accusations, which would ultimately lead to no religion being considered theistic.

In essence, "Jain Darshan: Astik Darshan" is a powerful defense of Jainism against the accusation of atheism, tracing the historical roots of this misconception and providing a clear explanation of Jain beliefs regarding God and the universe, grounded in both scripture and logic.