Christianity And Jainism: An Interfaith Dialogue
Prof. Padmanabh S. Jain
English
2009
220 x 140 mm
32 pages
ISBN 978-81-88769-42-1
Paperback
Rs. 30
'Christianity and Jainism: An Interfaith Dialogue' is a great conversation between Professor Padmanabh S. Jaini and Sir Mark Tully of the BBC broadcast on the BBC in the program 'Something Spiritual'.
Amongst the topics covered are the attributes of the soul, Jain views on abstinence, and the importance of jijnasa - the search for truth. This search is common to all traditions, sometimes termed as mysticism, sometimes as a union with god.
Prof. Jaini explains this in the context of the particular doctrinal epistemology of Jainism which does not see god as the creator, operator or destroyer. He further explains the understanding of bondage, salvation and process of attaining salvation. With his secular approach and broad mind he is showing tremendous respect for all traditions and faiths.
The ascetic path, in particular the Jain, is seen in the light of Indian and Western attitudes to asceticism. Taking the middle path as being more practicable is discussed along with the concomitant danger of losing one's way with too much.
Secular topics such as consumerism and its inherent problems are also discussed, along with a discernible influence of Western values in the minds of the Indian educated.
One of the highlights of the book are the contrasting views of Jainism and Christianity on the concept of Divine Grace. The Jain view on divine grace is explained from the religious and scriptural perspective as well as the layman's perspective.
Prof. Jaini further explains how Jain laity has traditionally addressed the ontological views on (the absence of) divine grace.
Prof. Jaini ends by explaining the Jain perception of the worldly soul as being like "a piece of gold lying deep within the ore" and that by applying "the right cleanser", the soul can be purified.
This is a deeply insightful conversation, between two articulate and knowledgeable men who re-examine their own faith while studying another faith.
Yashodhar Modi
HINDI GRANTH KARYALAY Publishers
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