Medieval Jainism - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Medieval Jainism: Culture and Environment," based on the provided pages:

Overall Focus:

"Medieval Jainism: Culture and Environment" is a collection of scholarly papers that explore the multifaceted contributions of Jainism to Indian culture and its significant role in environmental protection, particularly during the medieval period. The book highlights how Jain principles, such as Ahimsa (non-violence), vegetarianism, simple living, and charity, have shaped societal values and fostered a harmonious relationship with nature.

Structure of the Book:

The book is divided into three main parts:

Culture: This section delves into various aspects of Jain society, their artistic achievements, and the historical significance of Jain inscriptions.
Literature: This part focuses on the cultural value of Jain literature and the importance of Jain Grantha-Bhandaras (libraries) in preserving knowledge and contributing to the development of literature.
Environment: This section emphasizes the Jain way of life and its direct relevance to environmental protection, exploring concepts like vegetarianism, conservation of vegetation, and the pathological impact of certain professions on the environment.

Key Themes and Contributions:

Environmental Protection through Jain Ethics: A central argument of the book is that the ethical values and principles of Jainism offer a viable path to saving a deteriorating environment. The emphasis on Ahimsa, vegetarianism, simple living, and charity is presented as crucial for human survival and the preservation of national culture and environment.
Cultural Contributions:
- Social Equality: Jainism is credited with promoting social equality by recognizing individuals based on their activities rather than birth, and by admitting women and Shudras into its religious order with equal opportunities.
- Emancipation of Women: Jain thinkers are recognized for raising the status of women, removing restrictions, and providing equal opportunities in religious practices.
- Religious Tolerance: The Jain doctrine of Anekantavada (multiplicity of viewpoints) is highlighted as fostering broad-mindedness and religious tolerance, influencing Indian culture positively.
- Art and Architecture: The book showcases the significant contributions of Jain art and architecture in regions like Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, detailing the construction of numerous temples, sculptures, and decorative art forms. Specific examples include the Jain temples of Jaisalmer, Mount Abu, and Ranakpur.
- Literature and Scholarship: Jain scholars and saints made immense contributions to literature in Prakrit, Sanskrit, and other Indian languages. The preservation of knowledge through Jain Grantha-Bhandaras is emphasized as a crucial aspect of cultural heritage. These libraries served as centers for learning and preserved ancient manuscripts, including those by non-Jain scholars.
- Social Welfare: Jainism encouraged social welfare activities, including the establishment of alm-houses, rest-houses, dispensaries, and educational institutions. The concept of Aparigraha (non-possession) and Dana (charity) fueled these humanitarian efforts.
- Folktales: Jain narrative literature in Prakrit is rich with folktales that absorbed themes from Brahmanical and other Indian sources, contributing significantly to the tapestry of Indian storytelling and world literature.
Environmental Philosophy:
- Vegetarianism: The book strongly advocates for vegetarianism as a fundamental principle directly linked to Ahimsa, Samyama (self-control), and Tapas (austerity). It explains how vegetarianism minimizes harm to living beings, promotes a balanced mind, and contributes to spiritual evolution.
- Conservation of Vegetation: Jain philosophy views vegetation as an integral part of life, essential for oxygen production, climate regulation, and soil conservation. The text highlights Jain teachings that emphasize the sanctity of plants and the sin associated with unnecessary destruction of vegetation. The concept of Ahimsa extends to all living beings, including plants, and dictates a careful approach to their utilization.
- Pathological Impact of Professions: The book connects professions prohibited by Jain Acharyas with environmental pollution and associated health hazards. It illustrates how activities like charcoal burning, working with metals, and animal husbandry, when practiced without regard for environmental impact, can lead to various diseases.
- Balanced Relationship: The overarching theme emphasizes the need for a harmonious coexistence between humans, animals, and the environment, advocating for a balanced approach that respects all forms of life.

Key Figures and Concepts:

Tirthankaras: Revered spiritual guides whose teachings form the foundation of Jainism.
Ahimsa (Non-violence): The paramount principle guiding Jain ethics and practices, extending to all living beings.
Anekantavada (Multiplicity of Viewpoints): A philosophical concept promoting tolerance and understanding of diverse perspectives.
Aparigraha (Non-possession): A principle encouraging detachment from material possessions, linked to charity and social welfare.
Grantha-Bhandaras (Libraries): Crucial repositories of Jain literature and knowledge.
Vegetarianism: Presented as a core tenet of Jainism with significant environmental and ethical implications.

In essence, "Medieval Jainism: Culture and Environment" argues that the ancient wisdom and practices of Jainism offer profound insights and practical solutions for contemporary challenges related to cultural preservation and environmental sustainability. The book presents a strong case for integrating Jain principles into modern life to foster a more ethical, balanced, and ecologically conscious society.