The Jaina Path of Purification

Jaini, Padmanabh S.

ISBN 10: 8120807006 / ISBN 13: 9788120807006

Published by Motilal Banarsidass, Delhi, 1990. xvi, 374 pp., 2001

About this Item

Original cloth with dustjacket. Dustjacket a bit discoloured / damaged at edges, else a good copy. Text in German. Please see description or ask for photos.

Seller Inventory # 235097809

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Jaina Path of Purification
• Publisher: Motilal Banarsidass, Delhi, 1990. xvi, 374 pp.
• Publication Date: 2001
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 8120807006
• ISBN 13: 9788120807006
• Binding: Hardcover
• Dust Jacket Condition: Dust Jacket Included

About this title

Synopsis

The religious tradition of the Jainas, unique in many respects, presents a fascinating array of doctrinal and social structures that stem from the anti-vedic movements of ancient times. Drawing extensively on primary sources, Professor Jaini provides a comprehensive introduction to the Jaina experience. Beginning with the Life of Mahavira the author elucidates the essentials of Jaina cosmology and philosophy as well as of the "path of purification" through which the soul may escape from its Karmic defilements and attain eternal salvation. This path constitutes the integral element within the broader frame-work of Jaina literature, lay ritual and the socio-historical factors, which enabled Jainism to survive and prosper to the present day. In particular, the author has examined the cardinal doctrine of ahimsa (non-harming), both in its impact upon Jaina religious consciousness and as a standard in applying its sacred principles to the conduct of every day life.

About the Author

PADMANABH S. JAINI is Professor of Buddhist Studies at the University of California at Berkeley.Previously he has taught at the school of oriental and African studies, London and the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.