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Jainism / Jains and the Community

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Do Jains take part in interfaith movement?

Mahavira’s teachings of ‘acceptance of multiple views’ – pluralism, and ‘qualifying dogmatic assertions’ - relative pluralism have made Jains respectful and tolerant to other faiths. They take active part in the interfaith activities and support the movement without any reservations. Their principles of non-violence and reverence for all life; belief in equality, human responsibilities and rights; activities for animal welfare; and their concern for the environment and natural world have made Jains friendly to the other faiths.

Have Jains developed any Institutions for community welfare?

Education:
• Scholarship for Jain students
• Student hostels and colleges

Health:
• Hospital and clinics
• Guest houses in major cities for patients relatives and visitors
• Old peoples homes

Welfare:
• Community welfare funds
• Community organizations
• Animal sanctuaries and bird shelters

Compassion to Animals

Pilgrimages:
• Guest houses at practically all places of pilgrimage
• Upasharyas for monks, nuns and mediation for lay people
• Pilgrims of all generations walking

What are the views of Jains to the dilemma of the modern world?

Jain ethics are governed by their principles of ‘non-violence and reverence for all life.

They interpret dilemmas of the modern world below:

• Abortion is prohibited, as Jains believe that life starts at conception.
• Family planning: Jain texts advocate restraint in sexual activities and celibacy. Some Jains use modern methods of contraception with regret.
• Addictive drugs like alcohol, tobacco, cannabis and other hard drugs are prohibited.
• Eating out: only vegetarian food appropriate to the Jain diet.
• Euthanasia is prohibited, as it is a form of violence.
• Organ transplant is allowed, provided the donor is not harmed.
• Organ donation is allowed.

In conclusion, how does Jainism fit into the modern world?

Jainism lays stress on the individual and self-effort, equality, tolerance and respect to other faiths, philanthropy and non-violence and reverence for all life including the care for natural world, environment and animals. Its teachings are logical, scientific, and if followed properly lead to the path of peace, blissfulness and the spiritual liberation. It fits very well in the modern world and advocates a way of life that promotes the friendship to all and malice to none, and the law abiding citizens with human values.