Values In Jainism For Modern World

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The book "Values in Jainism for the Modern World" by Hemant Shah, excerpted from "Gems of Jainism," aims to explore the relevance of Jain religious values in contemporary society. The author structures the discussion into three parts, beginning with a general understanding of religion, then delving into Jainism's core tenets and values, and finally applying these to the challenges of the modern world.

Part I: Understanding Religion

The author begins by posing fundamental questions about the universe's creation, highlighting that while science offers one approach (external study), religion provides another (internal study). Religion is defined as an in-depth study of humanity, a bond between humans and nature, fostering harmonious relationships, and a "life transforming" force. It's emphasized that religion's essence lies not in dogmas or rituals but in its perennial values and their practice, which lead to happiness. Religion aims at establishing unity and inclusivity, intensifying all human activities. A distinction is drawn between Western and Eastern approaches to religion, with the East prioritizing inward life, intuition, and realization over intellectual understanding and critical analysis.

According to Jainism, religion is inseparable from life; it's a "way of life" and the ultimate path to transform the soul. It's not merely about philosophy or discussion but about practice and observance in daily activities of mind, speech, and body (known as Achara). The core of Jain religion is achieving equanimity (Samai) in dealings with others, fostered by qualities like friendliness, compassion, and neutrality. Jain religious practice involves aspects like recitation, concentration, doubtlessness, equanimity, and devotion, which can be secular, not necessarily tied to a deity. The Jain conception of Aradhana (worship/practice) includes faith, holy communion, eulogy, renunciation, sincerity, love, and devotion. Ultimately, Jain religion is described as devotional, purposeful, and goal-oriented, with the ultimate goal being the liberation of the soul.

Part II: Understanding Jainism

This section introduces Jainism as both a philosophical system and one of the oldest living religions. Jainism is a path followed by Jinas (conquerors of self) and is not founded by Lord Mahavira, but has an antiquity that predates the Vedic period. Jain philosophy fundamentally categorizes the universe into Jiva (Soul) and Ajiva (Non-soul). The universe is considered eternal and real. Key discussions in Jain metaphysics include substance and attributes, the Law of Karma, the Seven Principles (Tattvas), the Nine Padārthas (Catagories), and the evolution of the soul.

Jainism posits that the soul, in its pure state, is infinitely blissful, powerful, and omniscient – essentially, the qualities of God. The ultimate goal of Jainism is liberation, which means purifying the soul by removing karmic impurities that bind it. The Law of Karma is central, describing how subtle karmic matter forms a bond that prevents the soul from reaching its natural state. Jainism provides a detailed understanding of karma, its types, and its influence. The philosophy also emphasizes Anekantavada (non-absolutism) and Syadvada (theory of conditional predication) in epistemology and logic, as well as ethics focused on the soul's state.

Liberation is achieved through Nirjara (annihilation of accumulated karma) and checking the inflow of new karma, accomplished through external and internal austeries and penance. Consequently, deeds done through mind, speech, and body are crucial. The five great vows of Jainism – non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), non-possession (aparigraha), and celibacy (brahmacarya) – are presented as the expression of Jain axiology (study of values) and are considered moral and eternal values that transform life. Ahimsa is highlighted as the central doctrine, encompassing non-violence in action, thought, and speech.

Part III: Values in Jainism

This part focuses on the practical application of Jain values in the modern world. Jainism's core concern is the purification of human life and the upliftment of humanity. The Five Great Vows (Pancha Maha-Vrata) are elaborated:

• Non-violence (Ahimsa): The most central value, it means abstaining from causing harm to any living being, in thought, word, or deed. It also implies avoiding mutual jealousies and hatred. Jainism's emphasis on Ahimsa contributes to tolerance.
• Truthfulness (Satya): It extends beyond abstaining from falsehood to perceiving the world in its natural form. Truth should be upheld through noble speech and a peaceful mind, avoiding harmful truths.
• Non-stealing (Asteya): This encompasses avoiding all forms of dishonesty and conceit, contributing to social equality.
• Non-possession (Aparigraha): This value addresses the endless cycle of craving, greed, and attachment. It promotes simplicity of life, harmony, and peaceful coexistence, serving as a solution to socio-economic inequality, injustice, and hatred. While strictly for ascetics, its principles are beneficial for all.
• Celibacy (Brahmacarya): Considered vital for right character and liberation, it relates to the equality of men and women and the transcendence of passions, leading to purification.

These values, when practiced with faith and sincerity, are believed to transform life. Jainism also recognizes the importance of confession for purifying the mind, body, and soul.

Jaina Values and the Modern World

The author starkly contrasts the Jain values with the current state of the modern world, characterized by social inequality, economic disparity, moral crisis, political insecurity, materialism, sensual pleasures, hatred, killing, perverted religiosity, false patriotism, and pollution. The modern education system is criticized for its commercial motives, lacking a focus on life or values. The world is described as chaotic due to religious fanaticism, violence, and the pursuit of power and money.

In this bleak scenario, Jain values are presented as a "ray of hope" and a "torch" to guide humanity from ignorance to knowledge. These values offer a path to economic equality (through non-possession), an end to violence (through truth and non-violence), and self-mastery. The philosophy of the soul and the doctrine of Karma can foster equality and self-determination. Peace, unity, brotherhood, and social justice are achievable through the practice of these values.

Specifically, Ahimsa and Anekantavada are highlighted as foundational to Jain spiritual heritage. Ahimsa is essential for peaceful coexistence, while Anekantavada promotes better understanding and tolerance. Love, compassion, and friendship are presented as antidotes to the prevalent hatred and exploitation. The book concludes by reiterating the timeless relevance of Jain values, emphasizing that they are universally applicable, promote peace, understanding, broadmindedness, and the conquest of one's own vices, ultimately leading to liberation. The author stresses that Jainism offers a complete vision of life, not compartmentalized, and its values remain relevant for all times.