Jainthology

This document is the preface and table of contents for "Jainthology: An anthology of articles selected from Jain Journal of the last 25 years," edited by Ganesh Lalwani and published by Jain Bhawan Publication in July 1991. It is presented as a Silver Jubilee Volume.

Core Message and Purpose:

The book is a compilation of 25 significant articles from the "Jain Journal" spanning 25 years. The editor, Ganesh Lalwani, aimed to showcase the depth, breadth, and enduring value of Jainism as expressed through its religion, philosophy, and culture over the past quarter-century of the journal's publication. The selection focuses on articles that are considered rare, important, valuable, and outstanding in the field of Jainistic studies.

Key Themes and Content Areas Covered by the Articles:

The anthology covers a wide spectrum of Jainism, including:

• Origins and Evolution: Articles discuss the evolution of mankind in relation to Jaina scriptures, the antiquity of Jainism, and the origins and development of the Jaina religion. This includes the concept of the "Ascent of Man" through Tirthankaras.
• Philosophy and Doctrine: Key Jaina concepts like Ahimsa (non-violence), Karma, Kevalajñana (omniscience), Syadvada, and Anekantavada are explored. The Jaina perspective on reality, the nature of karma, and the concept of liberation are also detailed.
• History and Sociology: The volume delves into the history of Jainism, its revival in the later Vedic age, social life in Gujarat and Rajasthan in the 19th century as seen through invitational scrolls, and the historical presence of Jainas as a minority group in Indian society.
• Iconography and Art: The beginnings of Jaina iconography, the worship of Tirthankaras and other Jaina deities, and the evolution of Jaina art forms are discussed.
• Comparative Studies: Several articles engage in comparative studies of Jainism with other Indian philosophical systems like Vedanta (especially Advaita and Dvaita) and Buddhism, exploring points of convergence and divergence.
• Specific Figures and Texts: The lives and doctrines of significant figures like Bhagavān Mahavira and Parsvanatha are examined. The challenging problems surrounding the Pūrvas, a lost body of Jaina literature, are also a topic.
• Specialized Fields: The anthology includes articles on less commonly discussed aspects such as Jaina penology (linking it to karma philosophy), the popularization of science in medieval India (highlighted through the work of Thakkura Pheru), and the historical significance of Jaina astronomical data in dating ancient Indian events like the Bharata War.
• Jaina Heritage and Practice: The "Holy Abodes of the Sramanas" in Tamil Nadu are explored, showcasing early Jaina settlements and epigraphic evidence. The martial aspects and spiritual integration within the Jaina community of Karnataka are also highlighted.

Editor's and Foreword Writer's Perspectives:

• Editor (Ganesh Lalwani): Emphasizes that Jainism does not believe in a Creator God and focuses on self-purification for human perfection and world peace, achieved through ethical conduct like non-violence, truthfulness, etc. The book aims to retell the story of Jainism's spiritual ascent through art and literature.
• Foreword Writer (Dr. Satya Ranjan Banerjee): Praises the unique approach of reprinting past valuable articles for the Silver Jubilee volume. He notes the high standard of the "Jain Journal" and the broad range of topics covered, designating "Jainthology" as an excellent handbook of Jainism, a valuable thesaurus, and a sourcebook for Jainistic studies that reveals an hitherto undisclosed chapter of India's cultural history.

Overall Significance:

"Jainthology" is presented as a scholarly and comprehensive compilation that celebrates the legacy of the "Jain Journal" and contributes significantly to the understanding of Jainism. It is recommended for all lovers and students of Jainism, offering valuable insights into its multifaceted dimensions across history, philosophy, art, and practice.