Way of Life as advocated by Jainism and its Relevance Today

Abstract : Modern man lives in a soul-less civilization of materialism and consumerism. This materialistic turn has also gradually resulted in man losing faith in ‘religion as the harbinger of individual and social harmony’. Now, a question arises to me and that relates to whether man lives for bread alone or if there is something more to him. My enquiry into this question helped me to understand that we lack not the proper philosophy of life, but the lack of practice of the norms laid down by philosophy. Here, it is important to realize the Jaina emphasis on upayoga (utility) than upabhoga (consumption). We are also reminded of the practices suggested by Jainism, including ahimsa (or non-injury to other lives), which reawakens the people to the innate dignity of all life. The above-mentioned principle is the basis of equality and a pre-requisite of global harmony. The method that enables us to tread from mere search to realization is commonly called ‘YOGA’. The Jainas understood ‘yoga’ in terms of ‘cāritra’ or right conduct which is one of the important teachings of Jainism, namely ‘triratnas’ (three jewels involving right vision, right knowledge and right conduct) It is nevertheless true that these austerities alone help man in release in the philosophical angle. But practice of these three jewels nevertheless aids man in having a balanced attitude and approach to life that will guard him from unwanted desires or attachment to possessions.