Service Of Jainism To India - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on the "Service of Jainism to India":

The book "Service of Jainism to India," authored by J.S. Shah and U.H. Jain, highlights Jainism's profound and multifaceted contributions to Indian society and thought. It emphasizes that Jainism is a religion of diverse and prolific activities, particularly in the literary realm. Jain scholars and philosophers produced extensive and learned works across numerous disciplines, including Philosophy, Logic, Grammar, Mathematics, Prosody, Comparative Religion, History, Biography, Astronomy, Lexicography, and Medicine. These scholarly contributions have garnered admiration even in the Western world, as evidenced by the valuable collections found in ancient libraries across India.

Key Contributions and Characteristics of Jainism:

Universal Brotherhood and Inclusivity: A central tenet of Jainism is its claim to universal brotherhood, welcoming individuals of all castes and creeds. Its primary goal is to lead all beings to salvation, encompassing both Aryans and Non-Aryans. Jainism is presented as a force that liberated the masses from the oppressive "tyrannical yoke" of a privileged priesthood in ancient times. Unlike some contemporary religions, it did not restrict access to sacred texts or religious truths to the high-born. Instead, it boldly proclaimed Jainism as the common property of all, regardless of social standing, and asserted everyone's right to knowledge revealed by the Tirthankaras. This inclusive approach has provided solace and aided the evolution of millions.
Absolute Tolerance and Non-Persecution: Jainism's defining characteristic is its spirit of absolute tolerance and non-persecution. Jains have never forced their religion upon others. They have openly shared their religious treasures with the masses. Crucially, even when Jainism became a state religion under influential rulers like Chandragupta, Samprati, and Kumarpal, it did not exploit its patronages to persecute followers of other religions, a stark contrast to some of its "hostile sects."
The Teachings of Lord Mahavira: The text extensively discusses the enduring influence of Lord Mahavira, who illumined India's religious landscape over two and a half millennia ago. His teachings have not waned but are, in fact, increasing in popularity. The secret to his everlasting appeal lies in his towering personality, his resilience in the face of hardships, his wisdom gained from experience, and his zeal as a reformer and missionary.
Social Reform and Equality: Lord Mahavira worked in a "chaotic background" where Brahmanical ritualism was resurging, and ideas of birth-based superiority were gaining prominence. He courageously challenged the caste system, declaring that "It is the Karman and not the birth that determines the social status of a person." This revolutionary idea was welcomed by receptive ideological elements within Brahmanism, as evidenced by the fact that Mahavira's chief disciples (ganadharas) were Brahmins. Mahavira's teachings led Shudras out of subjugation and elevated them. He asserted that individuals of any caste could practice religion and that a monk should not be conceited about appearance, caste, knowledge, penance, or celibacy. This represented a significant social revolution.
Liberation from Mental Slavery and Gender Equality: Mahavira liberated people from the bonds of a specific class of people, from violence, and from mental slavery. He revolutionized the concepts of high and low and challenged the societal convention that women were dependent on men throughout their lives. He proclaimed that distinctions of caste or gender should not obstruct the development of the soul, emphasizing the equality of all souls. He made Chandanbala his first nun to exemplify this principle.
Emphasis on Self-Effort and Inner Qualities: Jainism teaches that individuals should overcome dependence on fate or divine grace and instead focus on self-effort. Mahavira's teachings suggest that one's own humanity, truth, and love make them great, not birth, family, or caste. The goal of Jainism is the purification of the soul and the manifestation of its natural virtues like omniscience and bliss.
Ahimsa (Non-violence) as a Way of Life: The text highlights Ahimsa as a fundamental principle. It presents Jainism as a testament to an ecologically responsible way of life that is "abundantly non-violent in thought, action and deed."
Anekantavada (Theory of Relativity) and Syadvada (Harmless Speech): Mahavira introduced the doctrine of Anekantavada to promote tolerance in thought and Syadvada to promote harmless speech. These doctrines underscore the importance of possessing different perspectives and speaking without causing harm.
Non-acquisition (Aparigraha) and Karma: The essence of Jainism is also rooted in non-acquisition and the principle of Karma, emphasizing that actions determine one's destiny.
Eternal and Universal Nature of Dharma: The book clarifies that "Dharma" in Jainism refers to the essential nature of an object or an individual, not a cult or creed. Mahavira defined Dharma as "Vatthu Sahavo Dhammo" – the real nature of an object. The soul's essential nature is self-realization and spiritual elevation. Jain Dharma is described as an independent, unique, and systematized religion that is not founded by any single seer but has existed from time immemorial. It is a "living dharma" meant for all, irrespective of their background.
Jainism as a Non-Vedic Tradition: Jainism is classified as a non-Vedic religious tradition, alongside Buddhism. Both traditions believe in the soul, the afterlife, and emancipation. Jain philosophy is considered logical, practical, scientific, and suitable for modern needs.
Contribution to Indian Culture: Through its doctrines, architecture, and fine arts, Jainism has made a significant contribution to the development of Indian culture and civilization.

In summary, "Service of Jainism to India" portrays Jainism as a profoundly influential religion that has enriched India intellectually, socially, and spiritually. Its emphasis on universalism, tolerance, social equality, self-effort, and ethical conduct, particularly through the teachings of Lord Mahavira, has left an indelible mark on Indian history and continues to offer a path for spiritual growth and harmonious living.