“The noble principles of life and spiritualism expounded in the philosophy and practice of Jainism have influenced generations of people worldwide. Its principled stand against a hierarchical caste system inspires us to fight for equality for all even today,” said Dr Singh in his address after releasing a Jain manuscript catalogue collection here. The catalogue has been prepared by scholars of the Institute of Jainology and is housed in the British Library in London.
He said the rational basis of Jainism had contributed to scientific temper and the fight against superstition and blind belief.
Recalling Mahatma Gandhi’s remarks, the Prime Minister said Jainism represented the highest flight of logic, taking nothing for granted and endeavouring to prove metaphysical truth by challenging the intellect.
He also quoted Nehru’s observation from the Discovery of India that it was Jainism that helped us better appreciate the rights of all living beings.
The Prime Minister said the ancient Jain document had been of help to scholars in the recreation of history. He however added that manuscripts and other documentary material as a result of their fragile nature had not been utilised as much as other historical material.
