An Introduction to Jain Philosophy

by Parveen Jain, Cogen Bohanec (Editor), Jeffery Long (Preface)

Bringing to light an important dharmic tradition that is highly relevant to the modern age, An Introduction to Jain Philosophy provides Western readers with the most accessible and enlightening overview of this spiritual philosophy yet. Although in practice for millennia and having been extremely influential in the development of Indian thought and culture, the Jain tradition has remained relatively underrepresented outside of India. An Introduction to Jain Philosophy is a significant attempt to address that. Drawing on an extraordinary collection of writings and discourses by the Jain monk Ācārya Sushil Kumar and on his own self-studies as a lifelong practitioner, author Parveen Jain distills the fundamental tenets of Jain philosophy for both academic and non-academic audiences. With relevance to today's political conflicts and our own search for meaning and purpose in our lives, An Introduction to Jain Philosophy holds the timeless teachings of what Jain thinkers have to say about the universal issues of the human condition -- and how we might understand and enhance our relationship with other living beings as a powerful and effective spiritual journey.

Genres: Philosophy

385 pages, Paperback

Published November 4, 2021

Reviews

[Christian Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

Context: I’m someone who hasn’t had exposure to Jainism beyond knowing that non-violence is the basis of the belief system

This book provides a great overview of the beliefs of Jainism without being bogged down by terminology like so many similar books can be. Instances of Sanskrit are translated in-line, which is helpful, and concepts with multiple parts are arranged into lists that are easy to digest