Journey into Jainism

If there were no stories to tell man would be deprived of the fragrance of life which is the essence of it. The beauty of the flower is in its fragrance. It does not need any definition. How can one define "story"? That which assimilates with life in its own nature.

Having accepted this natural aspect, both the tradi-tions-1. Loukik (worldly) 2. Aloukik (beyond) have given it due importance and valuation. No literature of any tradition is devoid of stories. Jain literature is divided into four parts. One of them is stories. Original scriptures as well as the subsequent works are all rich in interesting stories. Samani Smit Pragya (initiated in the order as Sadhvi Vishrut Vibha on 18th Oct. '92) while travelling on her various assignments abroad has been approached by people living there with a request to write a few interesting stories in English for the young generation. That very demand turned into her inspiration. After some successful dives into the deep ocean of Jain literature, she came out with a few rare pearls.

The necessity of having Jain literature in English is felt not only in foreign countries but in India as well where the new generation is being educated through the English medium. This book will probably serve their purpose. A lot more may be expected from Sadhvi Vishrut Vibha who will incessantly be active in this field.

10/4/94 Jaipur
Acharya Mahaprajna