Vardhaman Book On Jainism

The provided text is a collection of excerpts and advertisements from a book titled "Vardhaman: A Book on Jainism" by Jayshree Menon, published by Bennett Coleman & Co Ltd. The book, released to mark the 2600th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Mahavir, aims to present the insights of Mahavir and the Tirthankaras for the benefit of humankind.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the key themes and content covered in the provided pages:

Core Tenets of Jainism:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence): This is presented as the foundational principle of Jainism, emphasizing compassion and non-injury towards all living beings, even the smallest forms.
• Jiva (Soul): Jainism believes in an immortal and eternal soul within all living beings, which is subject to the effects of karma.
• Karma and Rebirth: The cycle of rebirth (samsara) is driven by karma, and suffering ceases only with liberation (moksha).
• Moksha (Liberation): The ultimate goal of a Jain is to break the cycle of rebirth and achieve a state of liberation.
• Anekantvada: The principle of "many-sidedness" or "non-absolutism" is highlighted, suggesting that truth is complex and can be viewed from multiple perspectives.
• Non-Possession (Aparigraha) and Asceticism: These are presented as virtues to conquer desires and break free from worldly attachments.
• Poverty, Humility, Purity, Truthfulness, Self-Discipline, Tolerance: These are the virtues Jains are asked to practice.

Key Figures and Concepts:

• Bhagwan Mahavir: The 24th Tirthankara and the founder of Jainism, described as a prince who attained enlightenment after years of asceticism and preached the principles of Jainism. His life story, including his birth, asceticism, enlightenment, and teachings, is recounted.
• Tirthankaras: The 24 Tirthankaras are mentioned as trailblazers or liberated souls who broke out of the cycle of rebirth. The front and back covers of the book visually represent these concepts with symbols like the lotus and the cosmic man.
• Sects: The distinction between the Shvetambaras (white-clad) and Digambaras (sky-clad) is noted.
• Holy Scriptures: The 12 Angas and the secondary canon followed by Digambaras are mentioned.
• Navkar Mantra: Presented as a sacred mantra that destroys sins and is the most auspicious of all auspicious things. Its significance and the divine colors associated with each part are explained.
• Ashta Mangala: The eight auspicious symbols of Jainism are presented, with their spiritual significance and customary use in temples.
• Prakrit: The importance of the Prakrit language, associated with Jain scriptures, is highlighted in the context of Acharya Vidyanand's work.
• Preksha Dhyana: A Jain meditation technique aimed at achieving peace, relaxation, and self-awareness. Its various types (Svasa Preksha, Sharira Preksha, Chetanya Kendra Preksha) and step-by-step method are detailed, emphasizing its benefits for mind, body, and soul.
• Cosmology: The Jain belief in an eternal and immense universe with various realms of Gods, humans, and suffering beings is described.
• Vegetarianism: Strict vegetarianism is highlighted as a core practice stemming from ahimsa, with detailed explanations from a nutritional and scientific perspective by Dr. Vijaya Venkat and Dr. Ramanlal Shah. Restrictions on certain foods like onions, garlic, roots, honey, and meat are explained.

Profiles of Jain Acharyas and Prominent Jains:

The book features profiles of several spiritual leaders and prominent individuals who embody Jain principles:

• Acharya Mahapragya: The 80-year-old spiritual head of the Terapanth sect, noted for his extensive writings, rediscovery of Preksha Dhyana, and his views on modern issues.
• Acharya Shiv Muni: An academic and spiritual leader with a Ph.D. and D.Litt., who emphasizes meditation and living in the present moment.
• Acharya Vidyanand: Recognized for his contributions to forging a new identity for Prakrit and his extensive propagation of Jainism.
• Acharya Vijay Indradinna Maharaj: A respected saint of the Shwetambar tradition, known for his work in uplifting the poor through hostels, schools, and homes.
• Ben Maharaj (Maharaj Vavhamyashriji): Hailed as the Jain version of Mother Teresa, known for her compassion, service, and extensive writings.
• Acharya Chandanaji: The first woman Acharya in Jainism, who has revitalized Jainism by making its tenets more appealing to the younger generation and emphasizing proactive service.
• Deepchand Gardi: A philanthropist and modern-day saint, known for his immense charitable contributions, believing service to humanity is service to God.
• D.R. Mehta: Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Board of India, who also heads the Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti, providing artificial limbs to the poor and handicapped, viewing service to man as worship of God.
• Sharayu Daftary: A prominent businesswoman, editor of Jain Bodhak, and former President of the Indian Merchants Chamber, embodying Jain principles of ahimsa, truthfulness, and detachment in her life and career.
• Rajashri D Veerendra Heggade: Guardian of Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala, revered for his charitable and social deeds, promoting religious tolerance and providing free food, medicine, and education.
• Mafatlal (Mafatkaka) Mehta: A diamond merchant who practices compassion (karuna) through extensive charity work, emphasizing service to the poor.
• Surendra Mehta: A diamond merchant and staunch advocate of Jainism and vegetarianism, known for his ethical business practices and philanthropy.
• Bhavarlal Hiralal Jain: A pioneer of drip irrigation in India and founder of Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd., committed to improving agriculture and uplifting rural India.
• Vijay Darda: Rajya Sabha MP and Chairman of Lokmat Times, who balances his political and publishing careers while adhering to Jain principles.
• Dr. Mahendra K Pandya: President of Jaina, dedicated to uniting Jains in North America and Canada and promoting Jainism through charitable activities and publications.
• Saryu Doshi: A respected art historian, former editor of Marg magazine, and honorary director of the National Gallery of Modern Art, known for her research on Jain miniatures and her personal adherence to Jain values.

Other Content:

• The Jain Vishva Bharati Institute: Described as a unique deemed university dedicated to spiritual and academic pursuits, rooted in Jain philosophy.
• Weddings on Earth, Blessed in Heaven: Details the unique Jain wedding rituals, emphasizing the absence of Brahmin priests and the focus on God as the witness.
• Advertisements: Numerous advertisements for various companies are interspersed throughout the book, ranging from granite and automobiles to tea, electronics, and financial services, often with an underlying message related to quality, tradition, or well-being.

In essence, "Vardhaman: A Book on Jainism" appears to be a comprehensive overview of Jainism, highlighting its philosophical underpinnings, historical context, and practical application through the lives of prominent individuals and spiritual leaders, all presented in commemoration of a significant Jain anniversary.