An examination of Jain principles and practices through the critical eyes of a scientist.
Jainism and the New Spirituality Dr. Vastupal Parikh, Ph.D.
The 2nd edition of Professor Parikh's popular book is revised and expanded to add some new topics requested by our readers. This 216 page edition, illustrated with color photographs, is divided into five sections.
The first three sections provide an easily understandable overview of the Jain Principles and Practices for those trying to understand this ancient faith. This simple review also serves as background information for those who are concerned or active in resolving current global problems such as violence, war, terrorism, environmental degradation, poverty, globalization, and social justice.
Section four reflects on the relevance of the Jain values to the 21st century scientific mindset with topics like New Spirituality, Nonviolence, Global Peace, Vegetarianism, Scientific Progress, Environment, and Activist Movements.
Section five explores the History of Jainism and Jain Literature. The chapter on Pre-Mahavir History rests on the author's painstaking study of ancient Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain literature, and several archeological findings of the past thirty years. The conclusions derived from this research contradict much of the misinformation and confirms some Jain assertions of their history. The next chapter on Post-Mahavir History details the developments that resulted in schisms, sects, and reform movements.
First published in 2002, the book received rave reviews in Toronto Star, India Abroad, Jain Spirit, Gujarat Samachar, Janmabhoomi, Divya Bhaskar and many readers. Several readers and organizations in Canada, USA, Kenya and Singapore have purchased multiple copies for distribution to their friends, families and members. JAINA awarded the text its prestigious "Exceptional Contribution Towards the Promotion of Jainism" award at its 2003 Biennial Convention in Cincinnati. The Gujarat and Hindi translations of the book were published in 2005.
“A sumptuous, 224-page exploration of an ancient and relatively little-known faith...surprisingly relevant for the 21st century.”
—Ron Csillag, Toronto Star, Aug 10, 2002
Product Details
Paperback
226 pages
Year
2002
Language
English
ISBN-10
0968986307
PRoduct Dimensions
9.1 x 7.7 x 0.7 inches
