World Behind the Text

Jainism is one of the oldest religions in the world, with a rich history and culture that has evolved
over thousands of years. Behind the texts of Jainism lies a world of spirituality, philosophy, and
social activism that continues to inspire millions of people around the globe. At the heart of Jainism
is Ahimsa, or non-violence, an ethical principle and a way of life. Jains believe that all life is
sacred, so they avoid harming any living being, no matter how small. This principle has influenced
Jainism and other religions and philosophies, including Buddhism and Hinduism (Mark, 2020).

Jainism is known for its emphasis on self-discipline and self-control. Jains practice a strict
vegetarian diet and observe various fasting rituals to purify their mind and body. They also believe
in the importance of meditation and self-reflection to achieve spiritual growth. Beyond its spiritual
teachings, Jainism has a rich cultural heritage that includes art, music, and literature. Jain art,
particularly its intricate and colorful paintings, and sculptures, is renowned for its beauty and
symbolism. Jain literature, including its sacred texts like the Agamas and the Prakrit Sutras, is a
valuable source of wisdom and knowledge. Jains have also made significant contributions to social
activism and philanthropy. For instance, they have established numerous charitable organizations
that provide healthcare, education, and other services to disadvantaged communities. Jains are also
active in environmental conservation and advocate for sustainable living practices (Mark, 2020).

Despite its long history and rich cultural heritage, Jainism is a minority religion in most parts of
the world, with an estimated 6 million followers globally. However, the influence of Jainism
extends beyond its adherents, as its principles of non-violence, self-discipline, and social
responsibility continue to inspire people of all backgrounds and beliefs.
World of the Text
During the conference, the said religion was one of the main contents. Mr. Pandey started the
conference by introducing Jainism and its traditions. Jainism was introduced with an introduction
to its basic principles which are, Ahimsa, or non-violence, Anekanta, manifoldness and
Aparigraha. Personally, as an attendee of the said conference, I have been able to grasp knowledge
specifically about Ahimsa. At its core, ahimsa is about cultivating compassion and empathy
towards all living beings and recognizing that we are all interconnected. Ahimsa is not only a
personal practice but also a social and political one. It calls on individuals to live in a way that is
mindful of the impact they have on the world and to work towards creating a more peaceful and
just society.

Mr. Pandey was also able to share some food practices for Ahimsa to be recognized. One of which
is that in the practice of Ahimsa, people should not consume food that is produced by labor; this
includes honey, dairy products like milk and cheese, and even wine. This is practiced for the reason
that in Jainism, it is believed that food produced by labor involved violence in some kind. For
example, production of dairy products usually involves separation of calves from their mothers,
thus causing distress to both the calf and mother; and from what will discussed in the succeeding
sections, in Ahimsa it does not only include physical violence but also mental, emotional and
spiritual violence.

In addition, another main topic of the conference is The Cycle of Samsara discussed by Dr.
Bohanec. In Jainism, samsara is the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth that all living beings
experience as a result of their karma. According to Jainism, living beings are bound to the cycle
of samsara as long as they continue to accumulate karma through their actions, thoughts, and
emotions. The cycle of samsara in Jainism is governed by the law of cause and effect, or karma.
Every action, thought, and emotion that a living being engages in creates karma, which in turn
determines the conditions of their next life. The quality and quantity of karma that a living being
accumulates determines their future birth, the type of body they will have, and the experiences
they will have in that life.

In Jainism, the ultimate goal of life is not to achieve worldly success or pleasures, but rather to
achieve liberation from the cycle of samsara and attain spiritual enlightenment; and as discussed
by Dr. Bohanec, this is by ending desire. To end our desires, we go back to the main principles of
Jainism, mainly Ahimsa and Aparighara. Jains believe that all living beings have a soul, and
harming any living being through our actions, thoughts, or words generates negative karma and
perpetuates the cycle of samsara. Therefore, by practicing Ahimsa or non-violence and avoiding
harm to any living being, we can reduce our negative karma and purify our mind and soul, which
can help us to overcome desires. Furthermore, Jains practice Aparighra or non-attachment to
worldly possessions, relationships, and experiences, which are seen as transient and impermanent.
By cultivating a sense of detachment and letting go of our attachment to material possessions and
desires, we can reduce our cravings and attachments, and focus on our spiritual growth and
development.
Inter-textual Analysis
Non-violence is a universal concept that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.
Different religions, cultures, and philosophical traditions have unique approaches to non-violence.
Christianity, Hinduism, Jainism, and Filipino culture are examples where non-violence plays a
significant role.

In Christianity, non-violence is central to the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Sermon on the Mount
is one of the most significant texts that underscore the importance of non-violence. Jesus advocates
that people should turn the other cheek and love their enemies. This teaching of non-violence is
often considered passive, but in reality, it is a form of active resistance to violence. Jesus' non-
violent resistance to the Roman Empire is a perfect example of how non-violence can challenge
the status quo (Sermon on the Mount - New World Encyclopedia, 2023).

In Hinduism, non-violence or Ahimsa is a core principle that underpins the entire religion. Ahimsa
means non-injury or non-killing. It is closely linked to karma and the cycle of birth and rebirth.
Hinduism also advocates that non-violence should be extended to all living beings, not just
humans. This principle is reflected in the vegetarianism that many Hindus practice.

In Jainism, non-violence or Ahimsa is the most fundamental principle. It is not just the absence of
physical violence but extends to mental, emotional, and spiritual violence as well. Jains believe
that all living beings have a soul, and harming any living being, even an insect, violates Ahimsa.
This principle has led to strict vegetarianism and Jain monks wearing masks to avoid accidentally
inhaling small insects.

In Filipino culture, non-violence is embodied in "kapwa." Kapwa is the Filipino word for a shared
identity. It is based on the idea that all people share a common humanity and are interconnected.
Kapwa also emphasizes the importance of empathy and respect for others. Non-violence in
Filipino culture is not just the absence of physical violence but also the avoidance of actions or
words that can cause harm or offend others.
Exegesis

Ahimsa

Aparigraha Anekantavada

Jainism

Jainism is a religion that places great emphasis on the principle of ahimsa or non-violence, which
is the most fundamental principle in the religion. Ahimsa is not just the absence of physical
violence but also extends to mental, emotional, and spiritual violence. Jains believe that all living
beings have a soul and that harming any living being, even an insect, violates ahimsa.

The principle of ahimsa in Jainism is closely linked to karma and the cycle of birth and rebirth.
Jains believe that the accumulation of negative karma can lead to suffering in future lives, and
therefore practicing ahimsa is a way to reduce negative karma and contribute to the liberation of
the soul from the cycle of birth and death.

The concept of ahimsa in Jainism is similar to the principle of non-violence in Christianity and
Hinduism, as well as the Filipino concept of kapwa. In Christianity, Jesus Christ teaches the
importance of non-violence and active resistance to violence, while in Hinduism, ahimsa is a core
principle that extends to all living beings, not just humans. In Filipino culture, non-violence is
embodied in the concept of kapwa, which emphasizes empathy, respect, and interconnectedness.

In addition to the principle of ahimsa, Jainism also places great importance on the principles of
anekantavada and aparigraha. Anekantavada is the principle of non-absolutism or multiple
perspectives. It teaches that there are multiple viewpoints and perspectives on any given topic, and
that no one perspective is absolute or completely true. Therefore, Jains believe that it is important
to be open-minded and consider multiple perspectives before making decisions or judgments. This
principle is closely linked to the principle of ahimsa, as it encourages people to avoid imposing
their views on others and to respect diversity. Aparigraha is the principle of non-attachment or
non-possessiveness. It teaches that one should avoid attachment to material possessions and focus
on spiritual progress instead. This principle is closely linked to the concept of karma and the cycle
of birth and rebirth, as Jains believe that attachment to material possessions can lead to negative
karma and hinder spiritual progress. Therefore, Jains strive to live a simple and minimalist
lifestyle, and avoid accumulating wealth or material possessions.

In summary, Jainism emphasizes the principles of ahimsa, anekantavada, and aparigraha. Ahimsa
teaches non-violence and non-harm to all living beings, anekantavada emphasizes the importance
of multiple perspectives and open-mindedness, and aparigraha teaches non-attachment to material
possessions and a focus on spiritual progress. By incorporating these principles into daily life,
Jains strive to create a more peaceful and harmonious world while also progressing spiritually
towards liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth.
Eisegesis

Personal Growth Social Issues Stress Global Challenges

Ahimsa Satya

Aparighara Asteya

Jainism

The core concepts of Jainism have practical applications in various aspects of life, including
personal growth, social issues, and global challenges. Here are some examples of how the
principles of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-attachment can be applied
in different contexts:

In personal growth, practicing the principle of non-attachment can help in personal growth by
reducing attachment to material possessions and desires. By letting go of attachment, one can focus
on personal growth and self-improvement. Furthermore, in social issues the principle of non-
violence or Ahimsa can help in addressing social issues like gender and race inequality. By treating
everyone with respect and empathy, regardless of their gender or race, we can create a more
inclusive society. Moving on, the main principles of Jainism can also be applied into global
challenges. The principle of non-stealing or Asteya can be applied to global challenges like climate
change. By reducing consumption and living a sustainable lifestyle, we can contribute to protecting
the environment and preserving resources for future generations. In addition, in stressful situations,
the principles of Jainism can help in maintaining calm and finding inner peace. By practicing
truthfulness and non-violence, we can avoid conflict and work towards resolving the situation in a
peaceful manner.

It is important to note that applying these principles in real-life situations can be challenging and
require conscious effort. However, by incorporating these principles into our daily lives, we can
create a more peaceful and harmonious world.
References
Mark, J. J. (2020, September 21). Jainism. World History Encyclopedia.
https://www.worldhistory.org/jainism/

Sermon on the Mount - New World Encyclopedia. (2023). Newworldencyclopedia.org.

https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Sermon_on_the_Mount