World Of Philosophy - Book Summary

This comprehensive summary outlines the key themes and contributions presented in "World of Philosophy: A Harmony," a felicitation volume honoring Acharya Prof. Dr. Yajneshwar S. Shastri. The book showcases a wide range of philosophical thought, primarily focusing on Indian philosophy, with contributions from scholars across various disciplines.

Core Theme: The volume celebrates the academic leadership, scholarly contributions, and personal influence of Dr. Yajneshwar Shastri. It highlights his interdisciplinary approach, bridging Jainism, Hinduism, and Buddhism, and his efforts to find common ground and promote understanding between these traditions. The overarching sentiment is one of deep respect and admiration for his dedication to knowledge, values, peace, and humanity.

Key Aspects of Dr. Shastri's Work and Influence:

Cross-Cultural and Interdisciplinary Scholarship: Dr. Shastri is recognized for his profound scholarship in Indian philosophy, religion, and Sanskrit. He has extensively researched and translated core texts from Jainism, Hinduism, and Buddhism, with a particular emphasis on finding commonalities and fostering dialogue. His work on Umasvati's Prashamarati Prakarana and Buddhist texts like the Mahayanasutralankara are specifically mentioned.
Promoting Jainism: His work has significantly contributed to a deeper understanding and appreciation of Jainism, particularly its ethical framework informed by its cosmology and worldview. His engagement with texts like the Prashamarati Prakarana is highlighted as crucial in this regard.
Bridging Traditions: A central theme is Dr. Shastri's ability to find common ground even in areas of theological dispute, reflecting the spirit of great thinkers like Haribhadra Suri. He highlights the shared philosophical stance of Jainism and Buddhism in not positing a creator God, emphasizing the importance of inner peace and self-reliance in Jainism and the centrality of the mind in Buddhism.
Understanding of the Self: His multi-year study of the Isa Upanishad and its commentaries has advanced the understanding of the Self (Jiva in Jainism, Atman in Hinduism).
Academic and Community Leadership: Dr. Shastri is lauded for his academic leadership at Gujarat University, where he inspired countless faculty and students. His frequent visits and lectures in the United States have also significantly impacted academic communities and individuals, fostering cross-cultural understanding and inspiring new generations of scholars.
Personal Qualities: Dr. Shastri is consistently described as a man of knowledge, love, humanity, satisfaction, peace, and exemplary conduct. His dedication to his students and colleagues, his warmth, and his commitment to values are frequently praised. His family life is also presented as an embodiment of harmony and affection.

Content of the Felicitation Volume:

Diverse Contributions: The volume contains a substantial number of scholarly papers (seventy-three) contributed by scholars from India and abroad, covering a wide spectrum of subjects. These range from the Vedas to contemporary management concepts, Gandhian philosophy, environmentalism, Tantra, mysticism, and specific studies on Jainism, Buddhism, and various schools of Vedanta, including Sufism.
Key Themes Explored in Chapters: Several chapters are highlighted, showcasing the diverse philosophical explorations within the volume:
- Mahatma Gandhi and his relevance for the 21st century: Discussing his ideas on non-violence, self-rule, sustainable economics, and his critique of modern civilization and its impact on ecology and health.
- Upanishadic Philosophy: Meditations on the Isha Upanishad, exploring its first movement and its reconciliation of opposites, as well as the spiritual landscape of the Upanisads.
- Jainism: Topics include Jainism and vegetarianism, its philosophical concepts, and the social significance of forgiveness in Jain traditions.
- Comparative Religions and Spirituality: Examining Lataif (Sufi subtle centers), Chakras (Hindu energy centers), and Leshyas (Jain mental tendencies), and their cross-cultural parallels. The paper "Mariyamman: Does She Remove the Stings?" explores the multifaceted role of a South Indian village goddess and her impact on women's empowerment and interpretation.
- Peace and Ecology: Papers on "Green Yoga," the Gandhian concept of peace through justice, and the fusion of cultural horizons in multiculturalism.
- Metaphysics and Epistemology: Discussions on "Aham Brahmasmi" from a logical foundation and value implication perspective, and critiques of Advaita Vedanta from a Visiṣṭādvaita perspective.
- Philosophy of Personality Development: An exploration of Indian perspectives on personality development through principles like Sraddha, Swa-vimarsha, Shrama, and Sadgati, framed within the Ashrama system.
- Truth and its Nature: Examining Absolutism versus Relativism in Western philosophy, and the Indian concepts of Advaita and Anekantavada, with a special focus on Gandhian Truth.

Overall Significance: "World of Philosophy: A Harmony" stands as a testament to the profound impact of Dr. Yajneshwar Shastri on the academic and spiritual landscape. The volume not only honors his multifaceted contributions but also serves as a platform for contemporary philosophical dialogue, demonstrating the enduring relevance of Indian philosophical traditions in addressing global challenges related to peace, ecology, ethics, and human understanding. The diverse range of topics and contributors underscores the visionary and unifying spirit that Dr. Shastri embodies.