Jainism And Its History

This document provides a comprehensive overview of Jainism and its history, authored by Dr. Sagarmal Jain and edited by Dr. Dileep Dhing, and published by the Research Foundation for Jainology. The book delves into various aspects of Jainism, tracing its historical development, philosophical underpinnings, and cultural impact.

The book is structured into several chapters:

Chapter I: History of Jainism This chapter covers the ancient Śramana or Arhat tradition, highlighting Jainism's deep antiquity, possibly predating the Vedic period. It explores the relationship between Jainism and Hinduism, and Jainism and Buddhism, emphasizing their shared Śramanic roots and subsequent mutual influences. The evolution of the Tirthankara concept is discussed, along with the historical development of the Nirgrantha tradition. The teachings of Pārśvanātha and Mahāvīra are examined, noting the distinctiveness of Pārśvanatha's sect and the eventual divisions within the Nirgrantha Sangha. The impact of Vedic traditions on Jainism, including the adoption of idol worship and ritualism, is analyzed. The chapter also touches upon religious revolutions prior to the Lokashah period, the emergence of non-believers in idol worship, and the influence of Tantra and Bhakti-mārga on Jainism, as well as the contributions of Jainas to art and literature during the medieval period.

Chapter II: History of Jaina Literature This chapter discusses the Jaina literary tradition, primarily in Prakrit and Sanskrit. It covers the primary canons (Angas) and secondary canons (Upangas), the age of Āgamas, and their commentaries. It details important philosophical works, literature on religious practices and ethics, Jaina narrative literature, and secular literature produced by Jainas. The challenges of manuscript preservation, the loss of certain texts like Drstivāda, and the role of oral tradition are also addressed.

Chapter III: Jaina Metaphysics This chapter focuses on the historical development of Jaina metaphysical concepts. It explains the doctrine of Pañcāstikāya (five eternal substances) and its evolution into the theory of six substances (Saddravya) with the inclusion of time. The concept of Sadjivānikāya (six-fold living beings) is also discussed, highlighting Jainism's unique classification of beings, including subtle elements like earth, water, air, and fire as sentient. The chapter also delves into the development of Jaina epistemology, including the theory of five-fold knowledge (Mati, Śruta, Avadhi, Manah-paryaya, and Kevala) and the concept of Pramana (means of valid knowledge).

Chapter IV: Jaina Epistemology This chapter further elaborates on the development of Jaina theory of knowledge, particularly the five types of knowledge. It discusses the relationship between faith, knowledge, and conduct, and the Jaina definition of Pramana. A significant portion is dedicated to the development and critical presentation of Anekāntavāda (non-absolutism or multiplicity of viewpoints) and the doctrine of Syadvāda (conditional predication), emphasizing their role in fostering tolerance.

Chapter V: Doctrine of Bondage & Moksha This chapter outlines the main objective of early Jainism, which is to achieve liberation (Moksha) from the cycle of birth and death. It explains the root cause of suffering as attachment, desire, and delusion, and the concept of Karma as the binding force. The early Jaina doctrine of Karma, its eight types, and the distinction between destructive (Ghati) and non-destructive (Aghati) Karmas are detailed.

Chapter VI: Jaina Sadhana This chapter discusses the historical development of Jaina Sadhana (spiritual practice). It highlights the relevance of Jaina practices in the modern age and presents the Jaina path to liberation, which comprises Right Faith (Samyak-Darśana), Right Knowledge (Samyak-Jñāna), and Right Conduct (Samyak-Caritra). The chapter details the code of conduct for householders and monks, including the twelve vows, their transgressions, essential daily duties, and the fourteen stages of spiritual development (Gunasthāna). Jaina Yoga and the spiritual nature of Jaina festivities are also explored.

Chapter VII: Applied Jainism This chapter focuses on the practical application of Jaina principles in everyday life. It elaborates on the concept of Non-Violence (Ahimsa) in Jainism, its rational foundation, meaning, positive aspects, and its relation to war and disarmament. The principle of Non-Possession (Aparigraha) is presented as a humane solution to economic inequality and consumer culture. The chapter also addresses problems like mental tension, the survival of the human race, and ecological imbalance, offering Jaina perspectives and solutions.

Chapter VIII: Instilling Cultural Values This chapter discusses the importance of instilling cultural values in children, emphasizing the need for a clear understanding of what constitutes genuine cultural values. It critiques the current educational system's focus on materialism and superficial etiquette, advocating for character building rooted in moral and spiritual values. The role of parents in character building is highlighted, along with practical advice for parents and guardians. The chapter also explains the significance of Sāmāyika (equanimity) and Dhyāna (meditation) in spiritual practice.

Chapter IX: Religious Harmony and Fellowship of Faiths This chapter addresses the critical need for religious harmony and tolerance in the present world. It defines true religion as based on equanimity and non-violence, and emphasizes humanity as the binding force. The chapter critiques blind faith as the root of intolerance and highlights non-absolutism (Anekāntavāda) as the basis for tolerance. It advocates for equal regard to all religions and explores the Jaina perspective on achieving fellowship of faiths.

Chapter X: Jaina Concept of Peace This chapter defines peace both internally (mental tranquility) and externally (social harmony). It identifies attachment and desire as the primary causes of mental tension and advocates for detachment. The chapter discusses how non-possession can help resolve economic inequality and how non-violence is a means to establish peace. It underscores the importance of mutual cooperation and a broad outlook for achieving peace in society and preserving the human race.

Publisher's Note and Editorial: The publisher's note highlights the rich history of Jain religion, philosophy, metaphysics, and principles. The editorial emphasizes the unique philosophy and principles of Jainism, such as Jiva, Ajiva, Moksa, Karmavada, Anekanta, and Jaina Acar, which contribute to its independence and originality. It also acknowledges the author's erudition and the book's contribution to Jainological research.

Overall Contribution: "Jainism and Its History" by Dr. Sagarmal Jain offers an in-depth exploration of Jainism from historical, philosophical, literary, and practical perspectives. It meticulously traces the evolution of Jaina doctrines, practices, and literature, while also offering contemporary insights into how Jaina principles can address modern-day challenges. The book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in understanding the rich tapestry of Jainism.