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It is well-known that the Jain tradition has been extremely influential in the development of Indian thought and culture. The Jain tradition teaches that there is an interdependence of perception, knowledge, and conduct unified by an axiomatic principle of non-violence in thought, speech, and action. In this way, non-violence defines the core of the Jain tradition, which has had a profound effect on other dharmic traditions originating in India. Jain Dharma is so significant that in some ways it may be incomplete to attempt to understand other Indian traditions (such as Buddhism or Hinduism) without knowing the basics of the Jain tradition, since these other traditions developed in an ongoing dialogue with the insights and wisdom of Jain respondents and visionaries. This book enables the reader to enjoy a comprehensive journey into the intricate world of Jain thought and culture in a way that is philosophical in its compelling rationality, deeply spiritual in its revelations, yet accessible in its language. The organization of this book allows the reader to engage in an overview of the central teachings of the Jain tradition, but also to ascertain the profundity of its depths. It can be read with equal efficacy in succession from beginning to end, or pursued by individual topics of interest to the reader. Either strategy will have the same effect: a systematic understanding of what the timeless teachings of Jain thinkers have to say about the universal issues of the human condition – and how we might understand our harmonious relationship with other living entities as a powerful and effective spiritual journey.  

Contents: Preface. 1. Characteristics of Jain Dharma (Jain Dharma ka Svarupa). 2. A Glimpse into the Past (Atita ka Jhalaka). 3. Path to Salvation – Right Perception (Mukti-Marga – Samyag-Darshana). 4. Right Knowledge (Samyag-Jnana). 5. Analysis of the Universe (Vishva ka Vishleshana). 6. The Discussion of the Fundamental Truth (Tattva-Carca). 7. Fundamental Doctrines: Nayavada, Anekantavada and Syadvada. 8. Jain Psychology (Manovijnana). 9. Jain Yoga: Meditation and Union with Divinity. 10. Spiritual Progression (Adhyatmika Utkranti). 11. Doctrine of Karma (Karmavada). 12. Right Conduct and Doctrine of Ethics (Samyag-Caritra and Nitishastra). 13. The Virtues of Jain Mendicants (Nirgrantha Dharma). 14. The Lineage of Jain Dharma (Jain Dharma ki Parampara). 15. Summary of the Distinct Merits of Jain Dharma. Bibliography. Index.