Jeffery D. Long, "Jainism: An Introduction" (I. B. Tauris, 2009)
Aug 11, 2021
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Jeffery D. Long, author of 'Jainism: An Introduction', discusses the mysterious philosophy of Jainism, its origins, vegetarianism, asceticism, layperson life, Jain philosophy of relativity, and its implications for the contemporary world. The podcast explores the authentic and engaging presentation of Jainism, suitable for specialists and non-specialists alike.
Gandhi's deep connection to Jainism influenced his advocacy for nonviolence and philosophical diversity.
Jainism's impact on Western thought led to principles of nonviolence and ecological responsibility.
Adopting Jain principles like vegetarianism and simplicity can collectively lead to a more sustainable world.
Deep dives
Influence of Jainism on Gandhi and Modern Leaders
Gandhi was deeply influenced by Jainism, embracing core beliefs like Anikantavad and Sadhavad. Growing up in Gujarat, surrounded by Jainism, he took vows before a Jain monk before studying law in England. Shrimad Rajchandra, a Jain mentor to Gandhi, embodied key Jain principles, shaping Gandhi's advocacy for nonviolence. Gandhi's emphasis on practical Anikantavad reflected his approach to interactions, seeing others' perspectives with patience and respect.
Jainism and Intellectual Nonviolence
Jainism's emphasis on intellectual nonviolence, rooted in Shadwad and Anekantvad, resonated with Gandhi's approach to philosophical diversity. While Gandhi drew inspiration from various sources, including Leo Tolstoy and the Bhagavad Gita, Shrimad Rajchandra's influence on him was profound. Gandhi's integration of Anikantavad and Sadhavad in his editorials and practical life exemplified his commitment to seeing multiple perspectives with patience and understanding.
Jain Influence on Americans and Environmentalism
Jainism's impact on Western thought, like the counterculture movement in the 1960s, introduced principles of nonviolence and ecological responsibility. While ancient Jains focused on personal detachment, their environmental footprint aligns with modern ecological practices. By practicing non-consumption and non-interference with nature, Jains inadvertently paved a path for ecological conservation. Implementing Jain principles, like minimalism and non-harm, can significantly reduce one's environmental impact.
Promoting Jain Values for a Sustainable World
Encouraging individuals to adopt even a fraction of Jain values can collectively contribute to a more sustainable world. Embracing vegetarianism, reducing consumption, and conserving resources align with Jain principles of non-violence and environmental respect. While not everyone may adopt Jainism fully, integrating small yet impactful changes can collectively lead to a more sustainable and harmonious existence.
Call to Implement Jain Teachings in Daily Life
Highlighting the relevance of Jain teachings in modern times, integrating concepts like non-violence, environmental conservation, and simplicity into daily practices can lead to a more harmonious existence. While perfection may be unattainable, incremental changes reflecting Jain principles can collectively contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate world.
Emphasis on Broadening Jain Influence Globally
Expanding the reach of Jain principles beyond individual practices to a global scale can foster environmental conservation, non-violence, and ethical living. Encouraging individuals worldwide to embrace Jain ideals, such as minimalism, non-harm, and non-violence, can collectively lead to positive impacts on sustainability and societal harmony.
Jainism evokes images of monks wearing face-masks to protect insects and mico-organisms from being inhaled. Or of Jains sweeping the ground in front of them to ensure that living creatures are not inadvertently crushed: a practice of non-violence so radical as to defy easy comprehension. Yet for all its apparent exoticism, Jainism is still little understood in the West. What is this mysterious philosophy which originated in the 6th century BCE, whose absolute requirement is vegetarianism, and which now commands a following of four million adherents both in its native India and diaspora communities across the globe?
In Jainism: An Introduction (I. B. Tauris, 2009), Long makes an ancient tradition fully intelligible to the modern reader. Plunging back more than two and a half millennia, to the plains of northern India and the life of a prince who - much like the Buddha - gave up a life of luxury to pursue enlightenment, Long traces the history of the Jain community from founding sage Mahavira to the present day.
He explores asceticism, worship, the life of the Jain layperson, relations between Jainism and other Indic traditions, the Jain philosophy of relativity, and the implications of Jain ideals for the contemporary world. The book presents Jainism in a way that is authentic and engaging to specialists and non-specialists alike.
Dr. Pankaj Jain is a Professor of Philosophy and Religious Studies at FLAME University, where he is heading the Indic Studies Initiative in the FLAME School of Liberal Education.
