Relevance Of Jain Religion In Modern World:- By Dr. Kumarpal Desai
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RELEVANCE OF JAIN RELIGION IN MODERN WORLD
By Dr. Kumarpal Desai Jainism is one of the oldest living religious of the world. Jinas are called so because they have won victory over passions of attachment, aversion, etc. that defile the soul. As a result, they have attained omniscience and supreme bliss. They are enlightened human teachers. They are also called Tirthankaras (Ford-makers). Self-help and self-reliance constitute the basic motto of Jain religion. According to the Jain religion, 'Atma' is the creator of weal and woe. In a book entitled "Dharmabindu Prakaran" Haribhadrasuri has enjoined upon the Jain Shravak to make his living in a judicious way. The Sadhu way of life is the climax of the self-reliant life style of the Jaina. The Jain Shravakas also always remained trustworthy and honest and never Ibetrayed anybody. The names of Vastupal- Tejpal, Vimalshah and Udayan Mantri have become immortal for their royal devotion and religious steadfastness. The ancient Acharyas themselves conducted a drive so as to keep the Jain gentleman away from seven vices that is alchoholism, non-vegetarianism, gambling, hunting, theft and keeping harlots. Ultimately this has come to stay as the symbolic life style of Jainas through the centuries. For world peace Ahimsa becomes an absolute necessacity. It must be practised throughout the world in every city, village and town. Man must be made conscious of the supreme value of his soul and the utter uselessness of destructive weapons and armaments. We should unite at this crucial juncture of world history and carryon ceaseless efforts to save humanity from extinction. It is essential that we try our best to revitalize our religious and moral principles and unite to ensure peace and harmony. In order to discourage violence. Bhagwan Mahavir proclaimed that the entire human race is one. Jainism claims: "Call every man happy who lives his life following truthfully the principles of Jainism." The message of Jainism has even a greater relevance today. By following this path, it will be possible for us to make a meaningful use of the wonderful inventions of science and technology and make them truely blissful and create global society free from hunger and hate -at peace with itself and with its environment. Thus there will be a heaven on this earth. What more does a human being want? ------------------------------------------------ |
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