Jaina Philosophy - Book Summary

This comprehensive summary is based on the provided Jain text, "Jaina Philosophy" by Virchand R. Gandhi, edited by Kumarpal Desai. The book is a collection of speeches and writings by Virchand R. Gandhi, a prominent Jain scholar and orator who significantly contributed to introducing Jain philosophy to the Western world in the late 19th century.

Overview of the Book and Virchand R. Gandhi's Work:

Publisher's Note: The World Jain Confederation (WJC) publishes this book as part of their effort to honor the scholarly contributions of Virchand Raghavji Gandhi. The WJC aims to re-print rare books by him and promote the message of peace and harmony, particularly the core Jain principles of Ahimsa (Non-violence), Anekant (Non-absolutism/Many-sidedness), and Aparigraha (Non-attachment), which are considered highly relevant in contemporary society.
Prologue by Dr. N. P. Jain: Virchand R. Gandhi (1864-1901) is highlighted as a distinguished exponent of Jain philosophy and Indian culture in the West. His participation in the 1893 Parliament of World's Religions in Chicago was a pivotal moment, marking the first significant introduction of Jainism to a global audience. He articulated the fundamental theories and principles of Jainism, emphasizing Ahimsa, Aparigraha, and Anekant. His speeches in the USA and London left a profound impact, opening the Western world to Jainism. The WJC's re-publication of his work is motivated by the belief that his insights remain highly relevant for the 21st century.
"An Exponent of India's Priceless Cultural Heritage" by Kumarpal Desai: Gandhi is described as a multifaceted genius who deeply analyzed Jaina philosophy and Indian cultural values. He was knowledgeable not only in Jainism but also in Buddhism, Sankhya, Vedanta, and Nyaya. His lectures covered a wide range of topics, including Yoga, Botany, nutrition, Indian culture, and contemporary India, often correcting Western misconceptions about Indian traditions. The book itself is a collection of his speeches and writings, with the first compilation by Bhagu Karbhari in 1911.

Key Philosophical and Ethical Tenets of Jainism as Presented by Gandhi:

Two Ways of Looking at Things (Nayas): Jainism employs two perspectives:
- Dravyarthika Naya: The view of substance, which sees the universe as eternal, without beginning or end.
- Paryayarthika Naya: The view of modes or states, which emphasizes constant creation and destruction at every moment.
The Jaina Canon: Divided into Shruta Dharma (Philosophy) and Charitra Dharma (Ethics).
Nine Principles (Tattvas): The foundational principles of Jainism include:
- Soul (Jiva): The element that knows, thinks, and feels, characterized by right knowledge, right faith, and right conduct. Its true nature is to be liberated.
- Non-Soul (Ajiva): Anything that is not soul, including matter.
- Merit (Punya): Leads to happiness.
- Demerit (Papa): Leads to suffering.
- Bondage (Bandha): The state of the soul being bound by karma.
- Karma: The accumulated effects of actions.
- Liberation (Moksha): The state of freedom from all karma and the attainment of the soul's purest state.
Substance and its Modes: Both the substance (Dravya) and its modes (Paryaya) are considered real and inseparable. This contrasts with some other philosophies that might prioritize one over the other.
Syadvada/Anekantavada: The doctrine of manysidedness, which states that all truths are relative and dependent on the viewpoint. Gandhi vigorously defended Syadvada against criticisms, particularly from Shankaracharya, emphasizing that things are not absolutely one way or another, but rather possess being in themselves and non-being in relation to other things.
Origin of the Universe and God: Jainism does not posit a creator God in the Western sense. The universe is considered eternal and uncreated. However, Jainism acknowledges a "subtle essence" or "God" as the eternal cause of all modifications, inherent in all substances.
Reincarnation and Karma: Jainism strongly upholds the doctrine of transmigration of the soul and the law of Karma. Karma is explained as the force that binds the soul and determines its future births. The eight classes of Karma are detailed, highlighting their role in impeding knowledge and causing pleasure and pain.
Jaina Ethics (Mahavratas): The five great vows for ascetics are: non-violence (Ahimsa), truthfulness (Satya), non-stealing (Asteya), chastity/celibacy (Brahmacharya), and non-possession/non-attachment (Aparigraha). The core of Jain ethics is Daya (compassion), which is seen as the positive aspect of Ahimsa.
The Nature of a Jaina: A "Jaina" is one who has conquered their lower nature (passion, hatred) and brought the highest nature into prominence.

Key Speeches and Themes:

Jainism at Chicago (Parliament of World's Religions): Gandhi's speech emphasized the ancient origins of Jainism, its ethical similarities with Buddhism, and its distinct psychological aspects. He used the parable of the seven blind men and the elephant to illustrate the importance of viewing truths from all standpoints and avoiding dogmatism.
Philosophy and Psychology of the Jainas: Gandhi explored Jaina psychology, including the five gateways of knowledge (senses, study, Avadhi, mind-knowing, Absolute Knowledge). He highlighted the Jaina understanding of the soul as distinct from the body and mind, and the path to liberation through right knowledge, faith, and conduct.
What is Jainism?: Gandhi defined Jainism as the path of conquering passion. He clarified the Jaina view of substance and spirit as eternal and distinct, and the concept of "God" as a perfected, liberated soul.
How to Study Jaina Philosophy: Gandhi stressed the need for psychological and ethical improvement of the mind for true understanding, moving beyond purely scientific or intellectual methods.
The Occult Law of Sacrifice: Gandhi explained sacrifice not as animal sacrifice but as the giving up of lower nature and sensual pleasures for spiritual good. He outlined five types of sacrifices, emphasizing self-restraint and the pursuit of higher spiritual goals. He critiqued misinterpretations of sacrifice and advocated for self-realization over vicarious atonement.
Jainism :-1 & :-2: These chapters further elaborate on Jaina cosmology, the nature of the universe (eternal, governed by inherent laws), the concept of God (as perfected souls), the soul's journey, and the rejection of the caste system. The Jaina emphasis on equality and the inherent divinity within every soul is highlighted.
Have Christian Missions to India Been Successful?: Gandhi critically assessed the impact of Christian missions in India. He argued that they often spread ignorance, misrepresented Indian culture, and introduced vices like alcohol. He defended the inherent moral and spiritual strength of Indian traditions and challenged the notion of Christianity's exclusive claim to truth.
Symbolism: Gandhi explored the significance of various religious symbols, including the Jaina Swastika (representing a free soul and the four states of existence), the sacred thread (representing the three sets of Tirthankaras), and the Seven Blind Men and the Elephant parable (illustrating the limitations of partial knowledge). He also discussed the Hindu symbol "OM" and its Jaina interpretation.
Wonderful Feats of Memory: He cited historical and contemporary examples of extraordinary memory from Indian tradition, particularly among Jainas like Hemachandra and Shrimad Rajchandra, linking it to the Jaina understanding of the indestructibility of mental force.
Essential Philosophy of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism: Gandhi compared and contrasted the philosophical underpinnings of these major Indian religions, focusing on their views on the soul, causality, and the path to liberation. He highlighted Jainism's emphasis on the reality of both substance and mode, and its unique approach to achieving perfection.
The True Laws of Life: Gandhi discussed the difference between Western and Eastern views on life, with the East emphasizing contemplation and spiritual progress, and the West focusing on material prosperity and struggle. He stressed the importance of the four Bhavanas (attitudes): Maitri (friendship), Karuna (compassion), Mudita (sympathetic joy), and Upeksha (indifference to faults).
Karma: Gandhi provided a detailed explanation of the Jaina doctrine of Karma, tracing its meaning from Vedic sacrifices to the Jaina concept of accumulated energies that shape an embodied being's existence. He clarified that Karma is not fatalism but a law of cause and effect that individuals can influence through their actions.
The Science of Eating: Gandhi strongly advocated for vegetarianism, presenting scientific, moral, and spiritual arguments against meat-eating. He discussed the three types of food (passivity/purity, activity, grossness) and their impact on physical, mental, and moral well-being. He also touched upon the importance of mindful eating practices and the natural aversion to meat among infants.
Astral Vision: Gandhi explored the concept of astral vision and clairvoyance, explaining it as the ability of the subtle body to perceive ethereal vibrations. He discussed the role of mental purity and concentration in developing this faculty and cautioned against its misuse.
Ancient India: Gandhi discussed the rich history and civilization of ancient India, emphasizing the oral transmission of knowledge through Vedas, Buddhist scriptures, and Jaina Sutras. He highlighted the early Vedic society's agricultural focus, simple lifestyle, and the presence of early forms of social stratification, contrasting it with the later development of the caste system. He also noted the presence of human sacrifices in some early Vedic rituals.
Jainism :-2: This chapter reiterated Jainism's core tenets: the eternal nature of matter and spirit, the rejection of the caste system, and the belief that man is the noblest creature, with caste being a product of pride and vanity.
Contribution of Jainism to Philosophy, History and Progress: Gandhi detailed Jainism's significant contributions to philosophy, particularly its theory of Nayavada and Syadvada. He highlighted the Jaina emphasis on accurate historical recording and the intellectual prowess of Jaina scholars across various disciplines. He also spoke of the Jainas' influence on Indian society, their advocacy for education, and their magnificent temples.
Man's Relation to the Universe: Gandhi emphasized that man's current state is a result of past existences and evolution. He stressed the importance of distinguishing the real (spiritual) from the unreal (physical) and overcoming worldly desires to progress towards the Supreme Soul.
India's Message to America: Gandhi conveyed India's message of peace, love, and universal brotherhood. He presented India's rich philosophical heritage and invited America to explore it. He also addressed the misconceptions created by missionaries and advocated for genuine understanding and mutual respect between cultures.
Impressions of America: Gandhi shared his observations on American hospitality, its system of common schools, vast material resources, and the family structure. He offered constructive criticism, particularly on the diversity of religious expressions and the prevalence of divorce, while also acknowledging America's progress in education and industry.
Some Mistakes Corrected: Gandhi addressed prevalent Western misconceptions about India, including the claim that India had no significant history before the Mohammedan invasion. He defended the chastity and esteemed position of Indian women, the origins of the caste system (arguing it's not a purely religious or integral part of ancient Hinduism), and the moral character of Hindus, citing statistics to show lower crime rates compared to England.

Overall Message:

Virchand R. Gandhi's "Jaina Philosophy" is a profound exposition of Jainism and Indian culture. Gandhi's work reflects a deep commitment to truth, rationality, and universal brotherhood. He passionately presented Jainism as a philosophy of ethical living, spiritual development, and intellectual inquiry, aiming to foster understanding and respect among diverse cultures. His speeches and writings serve as a testament to his extraordinary intellect, eloquence, and dedication to bridging cultural divides.