Jainism (Chapter 4)
Jainism: Chapter 4
Jainism is a very old religion and related to Hinduism yet very distinct. This religion has no one supreme being, yet there are gods and demons both subject to the same types of experiences of passions that human have. This makes them just as vulnerable to weaknesses, but they, too, can achieve liberation. Like Hinduism, Jainism reflects and acts upon karma, an immensely important concept.
The life of Jains, particularly monks and nuns have been described as quite harsh. However, further understanding of elements of faith (tenets) can illustrate how this is a vital part of Jains in their journey to ultimate purification or freeing the soul. And even among Jains, not everyone is able to adhere to the strictest of principles of Ahisma, Aparigraha, and Anekantwad. Still, every Jain has a change at freeing the soul by taking reduced or limited vows (see the top of page 127 in your text). For Jains, while there are layers of faithful, such as monks, nuns, and laypeople, the caste system is not recognized within the principles of faith. Interestingly enough, the few professions considered acceptable for Jain laymen actually allow for some Jains to become extremely wealthy as they become recognized figures of trustworthiness. And, often times, wealth Jains will often do philanthropic deeds and/or renounce their wealth at some point to go into contemplative mediations and pursue purification of the soul at a higher level.
Since I was unable to find a PDF file of the chapter from an older edition, I am providing a powerpoint. The slides do not replace the reading of the chapter, and, at some, point, you will have to get access to the textbook in order to complete the assignment, if you still do not have access. Michael Wood’s The Story of India makes references to the Jains. The links for the first two (of six total) episodes is under the Hinduism, part I assignment.
Discussion Post: After having read and learned about Hinduism and Jainism now, compare and contrast the concept of karma for both religions. Is it important that there are these differences, in terms of overall developments of religious practices and philosophies? And, overall, do you see Jainism as a counter to Hinduism or as another perspective to the other (the universe, creation, gods, morality roles of human in the world, etc…)? Explain.