Jaina Gazette 1927

This comprehensive summary details the contents of the "Jaina Gazette 1927," a publication reflecting the Jain community's interests and activities in India during that period. The gazette features a diverse range of articles, advertisements, and news, offering insights into the religious, social, and cultural landscape of Jainism.

Key Themes and Content:

• Jain Philosophy and Teachings: Several articles delve into core Jain principles, including:

  • The Three Jewels (Samyak Darsana, Samyak Gyana, Samyak Charitra): Explained as the path to Nirvana.
  • Tattvas (Principles): Discussions on Jiva, Ajiva, Asrava, Bandha, Samvara, Nirjara, and Moksha.
  • Ahimsa (Non-violence): Explored from metaphysical and practical perspectives, emphasizing its centrality to Jainism and its role in promoting peace.
  • The Theory of Time in Jain Philosophy: An in-depth analysis of Kala as a real substance and its role in modifications.
  • Das Lakshana Dharma (Ten Ways of Dharma): A detailed exposition of virtues like forbearance, mildness, truthfulness, cleanliness, sense-control, penance, charity, non-attachment, and celibacy.
  • Syadvada and Anekantavada: The doctrines of multiplicity of viewpoints and relative truth are presented as keys to perfect knowledge and tolerance.
  • The Attributes of the Soul: Discussions on the soul's inherent divinity, its obscured state due to karma, and the path to liberation.

• Jaina History and Culture: The gazette highlights historical aspects of Jainism:

  • Periods in Jain History: An overview from prehistoric times to the modern era, detailing the religion's evolution.
  • Mudbidri - An Ancient Jain City: A descriptive account of its history, architectural marvels (temples, tombs, manastambhas), and decline.
  • Jaina Remains in the Government Museum, Madras: A catalog of Jain artifacts, including images of Tirthankaras and inscriptions.
  • The Story of Rama in Buddhistic and Jaina Versions: A comparative study of religious narratives.
  • Kumarapala Chaulukya: A biographical sketch of the Jain Emperor of Western India, his conversion, and reign.
  • The Advent of Jain Sadhus in Lucknow: An account of the rigorous practices of Jain ascetics.
  • The Site of Kausambi: Discussions on the historical location of the ancient city and its significance in Jain tradition.
  • Gotras Among the Jainas: A list of gotras, possibly from a Dravidian manuscript, indicating genealogical lineages within the Jain community.

• Community Affairs and Social Issues:

  • The Jaina Education Fund Association: Reports on efforts to promote education, preserve Jain literature, and establish educational institutions.
  • The South Indian Humanitarian League: Highlighting its mission to propagate Ahimsa, vegetarianism, and non-violence.
  • Jaina Gatherings at Lucknow: News from the annual sessions of the All-India Digambara Jain Parishad and Jiva Daya Sabha.
  • Public Holidays for Jains: A representation to the government for recognizing Jain festivals as public holidays.
  • The Rikhabdeo Tragedy: An account of communal violence between Digambara and Svetambara Jains, sparking debate on sectarian issues and the role of funds.
  • The Jaina Political Conference: An appeal for the community to engage in political discourse and advocate for their rights.
  • The Need for Higher Education: An emphasis on the importance of education for the community's progress and self-preservation.
  • Man and the Way: A reflection by Mrs. Rhys Davids on universal human ideals beyond sectarian differences.
  • What is India?: A stark portrayal of India's economic and social conditions, highlighting poverty and low life expectancy, and questioning the nation's happiness.

• Promotional Content: The gazette includes numerous advertisements for:

  • Publications: Books on Jainism, comparative religion, philosophy, and humanitarianism.
  • Medicines and Health Products: Various remedies for ailments, often with testimonials.
  • Educational Institutions: The India School of Accountancy, and the Jain High School, Panipat.
  • Personal Items: Watches, talismans, and charms.
  • General Advertisements: Encouraging support for home industries and various commercial products.

• Personal Correspondence: Letters from J. L. Jaini to C. S. Mallinath provide insights into editorial matters, community concerns, and personal reflections on Jainism.

The "Jaina Gazette 1927" serves as a valuable historical document, showcasing the intellectual pursuits, social concerns, and religious steadfastness of the Jain community in early 20th-century India. It reveals a community striving for education, spiritual growth, and a greater presence in public life, while grappling with internal divisions and external challenges.