Essays in Jaina Philosophy and Religion

The present collection of Essays in Jaina Philosophy and Religion contains contributions of world-acclaimed scholars in Jaina Studies. Each of the four main sections of the present volume pertains to an important aspect within Jaina Studies: Philosophy, with emphasis on epistemology and the theory of the multiplexity of reality (anekanta-vada); the origins and historical development of Jainism with special consideration of its relation to Buddhism and Ajivikism; Jaina system of ethics and conduct, including rituals, social life, monastic rules and regulations; and Jaina mediaeval literature as an expression of mysticism and sectarian background giving rise to the four spokes, Chaturnayachakram of ‘The Wheel of Modes of Considering Jainism’. As a thorough and critical research work in the field of Jaina studies as such and likewise and adequate exploration of the history and background of the exchange of ideas between the Jainas and other systems of thought in India, the book will prove to be a rare document. Some of the papers included were the presented by the authors at the International Seminar ‘Aspects of Jainism’, held at Warsaw University, Poland, 8-9 Sept., 2000. The Seminar was one of the most important Indological events in Poland and the first opportunity in the history of polish Indology for scholars to meet and debate on issues pertaining to the field of Jaina and related studies. The honorary president of the Seminar was Muni Jambuvijayaji, the advisor and consultant was Professor Albrecht Wezler, and the Seminar was organized by Professor Marek Mejor and Piotr Balcerowicz.