It is a tragic misunderstanding to think that Jainism is an offshoot of Hinduism. The reference about Rsabha Deva, the first Tirthanker is found in the Vedas. Jainism and Buddhism are two streams of rebellion thought against the Vedic ritualism involving animal sacrifice and the Varnasharam and cast system based on birth. The emphasis on ethical conduct specially non-violence (Ahimsa) and non-possession (Aparigraha) are precious gift of the Jainism to the whole world. 'Anekanta' is the application of Ahimsa in the intellectual field while's 'Syadvada' is a form of non-violence in speech expensive, time consuming and depending upon black money.
Jainism can legitimately be called as a "World religion" because of its adherence to non-violence in thought, world and deed without any reservation. |
