•  
  •  
  •  
  •  
 

Silk In Jain Temple? - No Way

 

By Mr. Pavan Zaveri

 

Jainism teaches us that Ahimsa is one of the foremost principles to believe in. But to us living in this Western society, difficulties do arise in adhering to some Jain principles. However, certain simple points are often taken unchallenged from Jainism, such as vegetarianism.

Unfortunately, some of the other practices that Jains maintain, clearly violate Jain principles and, moreover, are sometimes as eating as meat. These include the use of leather and silk products.

Many adults, however, say that avoiding silk and leather is simply too difficult here in North America. At the Jain Center of North Texas, the youth felt rather differently on the issue. In 1992, the Jain Youth Group of North Texas, in one of its regular parent-youth discussions, brought up the issue of using leather and silk, especially at the Jain Center. The young felt very strongly about this, and to conclude the discussion, urged each and every Jain to reduce the use and purchase of leather and silk, and furthermore to completely ban wearing such products at the Jain Center. Some parents agreed to change ways; however, no sense of necessity was observed.

In the summer of 1993, the Jain Society of north Texas celebrated its Murti Sthapana Mahotsav opening an addition to the center exclusively for the idols. At the time, many spoke  to preserve the sanctity of the new establishment housing the murtis. No animal products ought to be taken within that area for any reason. However at the time, in the joy of the occassion, such " details" were overlooked to allow "all" to participate in the ceremonies.

Finally, now a sign is put up clearly prohibiting silk and leather products form being worn or kept in the temple area. Only commendations have been received for the sign, and not a single complaint. Though time took its toll, the Jain Society of North Texas has now realized the necessity and ease of preserving the purity of the Jain temple by keeping all animal products away from it, including leather belts, watchstraps, and wallets, silk sarees, shirts, and ties. Through the initial efforts of the Jain youth in Dallas, the parents have come to realize that to maintain the Jain heritage in America, such measures against leather and silk are necessary, and moreover, rather simple.

 

-----------------------------------------------------

Mail to : Ahimsa Foundation
www.jainsamaj.org
R10111