Lighthouse

This document is a detailed exploration of various questions and criticisms often leveled against Jainism and its practices, presented as a "Lighthouse" to guide readers through perceived misunderstandings. Authored by Panyas Udayvallabh Vijay and published by Pragna Prabodh Parivar, it is the English translation of "Vicharoni Divadandi." The book aims to provide logical and Shastra-based answers to intellectual queries that might challenge Jain beliefs and practices.

The core of the book addresses several key areas:

1. The Purpose and Value of Temples:

• Does God Suit in Temples? The author argues that while God is within, temples serve as a place to assimilate with the divine and are designed with specific architecture to resonate with spiritual energies. They are seen as artistic expressions of faith, preserving ancient art forms, and are not a "waste" but a vital part of human spiritual needs.
• Social Output of a Temple: Beyond spiritual fulfillment, temples are presented as significant job creators, particularly for skilled laborers in traditional crafts. They also stimulate ancillary businesses related to worship and religious events, forming an economic ecosystem that supports many. The book counters the notion that temple funds could be better spent on social welfare by highlighting the employment generation and community support that temple construction and maintenance provide.
• Use of Offerings and Idol Worship: The book delves into the logic behind idol worship, explaining it as a means for spiritual progression (from form to formlessness) and a way to focus the mind and senses. The offerings are seen as expressions of love and devotion, not a necessity for God, and are compared to expressions of love in everyday life. The author addresses the "why money alone?" question regarding uchhamani (donations) by explaining the practicality, transparency, and benefits of using money for temple maintenance and projects, while also acknowledging the value of other forms of devotion like austerity.

2. Societal Criticisms and Jain Principles:

• Wastefulness of Temple Funds vs. Humanitarian Causes: The book strongly defends temple expenditures by comparing them to other societal expenses and emphasizing the indirect economic and social benefits. It also highlights the extensive philanthropic activities undertaken by Jain organizations and individuals, often done discreetly, supporting the poor, education, and animal welfare.
• Non-Violence (Ahimsa): The propagation of non-violence is discussed, differentiating between observing it and imposing it. The author clarifies the legal and societal reasons behind the prohibition of cow slaughter in India, emphasizing that it's not solely driven by Jain sentiment but also by economic and constitutional considerations. The book refutes the idea that Jainism promotes intolerance and highlights instances of real intolerance against animal welfare activists.
• Religion and Enjoyment: The book addresses whether religion is opposed to enjoyment. It argues that while true happiness comes from spiritual attainment, certain celebrations and practices, like bursting crackers or excessive water usage during Holi, cause harm to humans, animals, and the environment. The author promotes conscious living and avoiding actions that inflict suffering on others, even for momentary pleasure. The book also defends the tradition of festivals like Holi, kite flying, and dance parties, framing restrictions not as an opposition to happiness but as guidance for a more meaningful and less harmful form of enjoyment and spiritual growth.
• Non-Vegetarianism: The book presents a reasoned argument against non-vegetarianism, based on biological and environmental factors, and its impact on health and resource utilization. It criticizes the idea of equating milk consumption with non-vegetarianism, arguing that milk is a natural and beneficial product for humans. The author highlights the extensive wastage of food grains and water in modern society and contrasts it with Jain practices of restraint and minimal waste.

3. Jain Monasticism (Deeksha):

• Sainthood and Global Welfare: The book explains that the lifestyle of Jain monks and nuns, while focused on their own spiritual emancipation, incidentally contributes significantly to global well-being. Their renunciation of vehicles and electricity significantly reduces carbon emissions, and practices like Samayik (meditation) are presented as more impactful environmental practices than token gestures like Earth Hour. The preachings of Jain ascetics are also credited with promoting peace, harmony, and preventing societal conflicts, contributing to welfare in a profound way.

4. Animal Welfare:

• Cruelty to Animals and Jivdaya: The book discusses the use of animals for labor (bullock carts, horse carts) and argues that when done within reasonable limits and with care, it is not cruelty but a symbiotic relationship that provides livelihood and economic utility. It criticizes the idea that not using animals is inherently compassionate, as it can lead to them being discarded for slaughter. The author differentiates between superficial and real violence (Hetu Hinsa, Swaroop Hinsa, Anubandh Hinsa) and advocates for saving animals through their integration into human society.

Overall Theme:

The "Lighthouse" aims to equip readers with the knowledge and arguments to defend Jain principles and practices against contemporary criticisms. It emphasizes the logical basis, ethical considerations, and long-term societal benefits of Jain traditions, urging readers to look beyond superficial interpretations and appreciate the deeper spiritual and ethical foundations of the faith. The author seeks to foster pride in Jainism and strengthen the reader's resolve in their spiritual journey.