Portrait Of Jain Religion - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "A Portrait of Jain Religion" by Dr. Narendra P. Jain, based on the provided pages:

Overview and Publisher's Note:

The book "A Portrait of Jain Religion" aims to present Jainism in a modern idiom, bridging the gap between religious and rational thought. The publisher highlights the contemporary relevance of Jain principles in addressing issues like escalating violence, intolerance, and wasteful consumption. Jainism offers solutions through its emphasis on Ahimsa (non-violence), Aparigraha (non-possession), and Anekantavada (the doctrine of manifold aspects). The publisher commends Dr. Jain's expertise as a diplomat, economist, environmentalist, and Jain scholar.

Key Themes and Chapters:

The book is structured into sections covering the essence and history of Jainism, its spiritual path, the teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir, and the importance of its core principles.

1. What is Religion?

Religion is defined as a harmoniously blended system of thought, perception, and conduct focused on the search for truth and self-realization.
It reconnects individuals to their spiritual nature, providing lasting happiness beyond material pursuits.
Religions, despite varied forms, share universal tenets of ethical conduct and are often founded by spiritual masters who have attained self-realization.

2. Understanding Jain Religion:

Jainism is rooted in the intrinsic nature of the soul ("Vastu Swabhavo Dharma").
The universe is composed of six eternal elements: souls (Jivas) and five non-living elements (Ajivas) – matter, space, time, the medium of motion, and the medium of rest.
Time is considered eternal and cyclical, with periods of ascent and descent.
The soul, by nature pure, becomes entangled with karmic particles due to passions, leading to transmigration.
The Jain path to liberation involves Samvar (stoppage of karmic influx), Nirjara (exhaustion of karmas), and Moksha (liberation).
The Tirthankaras are spiritual path-finders who have conquered themselves and attained enlightenment.
The Namokar Mantra is a central prayer saluting the five supreme spiritual beings (Panch Parmeshthi).
The core principles of Jainism are Ahimsa, Aparigraha, and Anekant, promoting peace, interdependence, and tolerance.

3. Historical Background of Jain Religion:

Jainism is one of the oldest living world religions, predating Vedic and Aryan cultures.
Archaeological findings from the Indus Valley civilization suggest an early adherence to Jain principles.
The 24 Tirthankaras, including Rishabhnath (Adinath) as the founder and Mahavir as the 24th, have shaped the religion.
Jainism, though primarily confined to India, has influenced Indian culture significantly.
Mahatma Gandhi was deeply inspired by Jain principles, particularly Ahimsa, from his Jain guru Srimad Rajchandra.
The spread of Jainism globally began with the migration of Jain businessmen and professionals in the 20th century.

4. The Role of Tirthankaras:

Tirthankaras are "Path-finders" who achieve omniscient knowledge and guide humanity.
They are also called Arihants or Jinas, having destroyed the four "Ghati" (destructive) karmas.
Upon attaining Nirvana, they become Siddhas – liberated, formless souls.
The teachings of Tirthankaras are transmitted through the "Shrut" (oral tradition) and organized into a four-fold order (Sangha).
The division into Digambar and Shwetambar sects occurred later, with differences in practices but unanimity on core principles.
Tirthankaras are venerated through temple worship and the celebration of five major life events (Kalyanaks).

5. Namokar Mantra:

The Namokar Mantra is the essence of Tirthankara's teachings, a salutation to the Panch Parmeshthi (Arihants, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Ascetics).
It's chanted for spiritual upliftment and protection, embodying the path of self-realization.
The mantra's structure and the attributes of the Panch Parmeshthi (totaling 108) are significant.

6. The Legacy of Bhagwan Mahavir:

Bhagwan Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara, is a central figure, emphasizing Ahimsa, Aparigraha, and Anekant.
He advocated an integrated approach of right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct for true happiness.
Mahavir's life, from his royal upbringing to his intense asceticism and enlightenment, serves as a model.
He emphasized conquering the self through self-control and penance.
His teachings promote equality of all souls and interdependence among living beings.
Mahavir's legacy includes a systematic approach to Jain doctrines, a reformist orientation, and emphasis on democratic principles within the faith.
He championed the emancipation of women and was a proponent of universal ethical conduct.

7. Jain Scriptures:

Jain scriptures, primarily the Anga-Agamas, were codified by Mahavir's disciples.
These scriptures, originally in Prakrit, cover philosophy, rituals, and conduct.
Both Digambar and Shwetambar traditions have their own scriptural canons and commentaries.
Key texts like Tattvartha Sutra, Shatkhandagama, and works by Acharya Kundakunda are highly regarded.
The evolution and preservation of Jain literature reflect the dynamic nature of the tradition.

8. The Fundamental Approach of Jain Religion:

Jainism is an eternal religion based on the cyclical nature of time.
It is a non-theistic religion, with no creator God. The universe operates by its own laws.
The Jain emblem symbolizes the four innate qualities of the soul and the four destinations of transmigration.
The six fundamental entities (Dravyas) are eternal and constantly transforming.
The nine Tatvas (fundamentals) explain the theory of karma and the path to liberation: Jiva, Ajiva, Asrava, Bandh, Punya, Pap, Samvar, Nirjara, and Moksha.
The Jain theory of Karma explains the bondage of the soul to material particles through passions.
Samvar (stoppage of karmic influx) and Nirjara (eradication of karmas) are crucial for spiritual progress.
The concept of equality of all souls is central, regardless of life form.
The 12 Bhavanas (meditative reflections) offer a framework for understanding the transient nature of life and the path to liberation.

9. The Three Jewels of Jainism:

The "Ratnatraya" (Three Jewels) – Samyak Darshana (Right Perception), Samyak Gyan (Right Knowledge), and Samyak Charitra (Right Conduct) – are the foundation of Jain philosophy and the path to liberation (Moksha).
Samyak Darshana involves shedding false beliefs and understanding the true nature of reality.
Samyak Gyan is rational knowledge free from doubt and prejudice, recognizing the multi-faceted nature of truth (Anekant).
Samyak Charitra is the practical application of ethical conduct, encompassing vows and disciplines.

10. The Ladder of Jain Spiritual Journey:

The Jain spiritual ladder, represented by 14 Gunasthanas (stages), is a progressive journey of self-purification and liberation from karmic bondage.
The first five stages are applicable to lay people, while the remaining seven are for ascetics, leading to omniscience and eventual Siddhahood.
The path for lay persons involves vows like Anuvrata (minor vows) and Guna Vratas (merit vows), emphasizing restraint and ethical conduct.
For ascetics, the practice is more rigorous, involving Mahavratas (major vows) and strict adherence to rules of conduct in all aspects of life.

11. Paryushan Parva:

Paryushan is the most significant annual Jain festival, a time for spiritual upliftment, penance, and introspection.
It involves self-criticism, seeking forgiveness, and observing religious principles with intensified dedication.
The Shwetambar Paryushan (8 days) and Digambar Paryushan (10 days, also called Daslakshan Parva) both culminate in a Day of Forgiveness (Samvatsari/Kshamavani).
The ten cardinal virtues emphasized during Digambar Paryushan are: Forgiveness, Humility, Straightforwardness, Purity, Truth, Self-restraint, Penance, Renunciation, Non-possession, and Celibacy.

12. Ahimsa - The Supreme Religion:

Ahimsa is the cornerstone of Jainism, considered the Supreme Religion.
It is understood not merely as non-violence but as reverence for all life and mutual supportiveness ("Parasparopagraho Jeevanam").
The three pillars – Ahimsa, Anekant, and Aparigraha – integrate the concept of non-violence.
Ahimsa encompasses non-violence in thought, speech, and action, extending to all living beings and nature.
It involves minimizing violence in all aspects of life, from diet to daily activities.

13. Aparigraha (Non-Possession and Non-Attachment):

Aparigraha is integrally linked to Ahimsa, as attachment and possessiveness are seen as the root of violence.
It encourages living by need, not greed, and emphasizes caring and sharing.
For ascetics, Aparigraha is practiced rigorously, involving renunciation of possessions and worldly ties.
For lay persons, it means limiting desires, controlling consumption, and developing detachment.

14. Anekant (Relativity in Thinking):

Anekantavada, the doctrine of manifold aspects, emphasizes the multi-dimensional nature of truth.
It promotes an open-minded, liberal interpretation of facts and situations, fostering tolerance and synthesis.
Anekant rejects absolutism and dogmatism, encouraging understanding of different viewpoints.
It is crucial for resolving conflicts and promoting peace, harmony, and compassion in society.

15. Vegetarianism - The Jain Tradition:

Vegetarianism is a vital element of Jain ethics and the practice of Ahimsa.
It is rooted in compassion for all living beings and the understanding that violence towards others is violence towards oneself.
Jainism advocates for a simple, restrained diet, avoiding harm to sentient beings.
The text highlights the ethical, health, and environmental benefits of vegetarianism, noting its increasing acceptance globally.

16. Conclusion: Song of the Soul (Meri Bhavna):

The book concludes with "Meri Bhavna," a popular Jain prayer poem that encapsulates the spiritual aspirations and ethical principles of Jainism.
It expresses yearnings for self-purification, righteous conduct, compassion, truthfulness, and universal well-being.

In essence, "A Portrait of Jain Religion" presents Jainism as a comprehensive, rational, and ethical path to spiritual liberation, deeply rooted in the principles of non-violence, self-restraint, and respect for all life. The book emphasizes the practical application of these principles for individual well-being and global harmony.