Jivo Ane Jiva Do - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Jivo Ane Jiva Do" by Shekharchandra Jain, based on the provided pages:

Overall Theme: The Primacy of Non-Violence (Ahimsa) and Vegetarianism in Jainism and Beyond

The book, "Jivo Ane Jiva Do" (Live and Let Live), authored by Dr. Shekhar Chandra Jain and published by Manharlal Maganlal Shah, strongly advocates for non-violence as the fundamental principle of Jainism and indeed, most religions. It emphasizes that true non-violence extends beyond physical actions to encompass mental and verbal harm. The core message is that living beings desire happiness and the avoidance of suffering, and humans, as intelligent beings, should not inflict pain and death for the gratification of their senses.

Key Arguments and Themes Presented:

Ahimsa as the Heart of Jainism: The text reiterates that Ahimsa (non-violence) is not just a tenet but the very lifeblood of Jainism. Lord Mahavir's tireless efforts to spread this message are highlighted, emphasizing his recognition of mental and verbal violence as equally significant as physical violence.
The "Live and Let Live" Principle: This guiding principle is central, urging humans to allow other creatures to live peacefully without causing them harm.
Natural Vegetarianism of Humans: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to proving that humans are naturally vegetarian. It draws on historical and scientific evidence:
- Ancient Traditions: References are made to ancient tribes and ascetics living on roots and fruits, suggesting a natural inclination towards vegetarianism.
- Physiological Differences: The text details physiological distinctions between humans and carnivorous animals. These include the length of the intestines, the size of the liver, the shape of teeth, the method of drinking water, the presence of sweat glands, and the nature of nails, all of which are presented as evidence that the human body is designed for a vegetarian diet.
- Scientific Studies: The book cites studies by Western scholars and physicians (like Dr. A. Vatchman and Dr. D.S. Vernstein) that support the idea that humans are anatomically suited for a vegetarian diet.
Critique of Non-Vegetarianism and its Consequences:
- Sensory Indulgence: The text criticizes the modern tendency to consume meat driven by taste, fashion, and ignorance, labeling it as slavery to the senses and a product of Western materialism.
- Ethical Concerns: It argues that killing innocent animals for pleasure is a grave ethical transgression, and the consequences of such violence will be borne by the perpetrator.
- Health Detriments: The book extensively discusses the health risks associated with meat consumption, citing scientific findings that link it to various diseases like cancer, heart problems, high blood pressure, arthritis, and digestive issues. It also points out the deficiency of certain nutrients in meat and the harmful effects of toxins and uric acid present in it.
- Impact of Fashion: The violence involved in the production of beauty products and leather goods is also condemned, linking it to the broader issue of meat consumption.
The Superiority of Vegetarianism:
- Health Benefits: Vegetarianism is presented as the best medicine for longevity and health, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins. The text highlights the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables.
- Mental and Spiritual Purity: The book asserts that a vegetarian diet fosters purity of thought, morality, and enhances intellect and spiritual development. It quotes the saying, "As one eats food, so becomes the mind."
- Economic and Social Advantages: Vegetarianism is also presented as more economical and socially responsible, especially in contexts where basic sustenance is a challenge.
The Problem with Eggs: A significant portion (Pages 22-32) is dedicated to refuting the idea that eggs are a healthy or non-violent food.
- Health Hazards: The text cites medical opinions that eggs contribute to cholesterol, heart disease, blood pressure issues, and digestive problems due to their composition and the presence of substances like "avidene."
- Ethical and Violent Production: It argues that the egg industry involves immense violence, forcing hens to lay an unnatural number of eggs in artificial environments, and the use of animal by-products in their feed. The killing of unproductive hens is also highlighted.
- The "Fertile" vs. "Unfertile" Dilemma: The text points out the difficulty in distinguishing between fertile and unfertilized eggs, suggesting that consuming unfertilized eggs can lead to the consumption of fertile ones, thereby contributing to violence and desensitization.
- Comparison with Milk: Milk is consistently presented as a pure, sattvic, and nurturing food, in stark contrast to eggs, which are characterized as tamasic, impure, and violent. The cultural significance of the cow in India as a maternal figure is also emphasized.
Global Vegetarian Movement: The book notes the growing global trend towards vegetarianism, supported by international vegetarian societies and the increasing awareness of its benefits.
Inspiration from Great Personalities: The text draws strength from the examples of influential figures across various religions and philosophies who advocated for vegetarianism, including Lord Mahavir, Lord Buddha, Mahatma Gandhi, Leo Tolstoy, Rabindranath Tagore, and many wrestlers and spiritual leaders.
Jain Principles of Restraint: The Jain concept of "sanyam" (restraint) is explained, encompassing both "prani sanyam" (restraint towards living beings) and "indriya sanyam" (control over senses). The strict adherence to these principles is shown to naturally lead to vegetarianism.

In essence, "Jivo Ane Jiva Do" is a powerful Jain treatise that blends religious philosophy with scientific reasoning and ethical arguments to champion vegetarianism and the principle of non-violence as the path to a healthier, more compassionate, and spiritually enriched life. The book aims to educate readers, particularly the younger generation, about the inherent benefits of a vegetarian diet and the ethical imperative to minimize harm to all living beings.