Ourselves

Summary

The lead article “Ourselves” opens the thirty‑first volume of The Jaina Gazette by reflecting on the law of change that governs everything and yet affirms the permanence of matter and spirit. The editors remind readers that the universe is eternal, uncreate and indestructible. Matter undergoes ceaseless change in form but remains constant in quantity, while the soul is inherently omniscient and blissful. Against this background of cosmological permanence, the journal itself has moved to a new place of publication in Malhipur‑Saharanpur but its purpose remains unaltered. Entering its thirty‑first year, the paper continues to serve as the monthly organ of the All‑India Jaina Association, and its editors affirm that the Gazette’s policy of awakening the Jain community to its best interests is fixed and unchangeable. They explain that the paper exists to rouse Jains from proud isolation and to remind them that other communities have advanced in trade, commerce, education and other areas while Jains have lagged behind. The article therefore calls on readers to co‑operate, contribute and organise for collective advancement. Men of conviction, workers, money and organisation are needed to revitalise the community. The editorial criticises wasteful spending on fairs, feastings and “tamashas” and the tendency of wealthy members to spend lavishly on temporary spectacles while ignoring long‑term needs. Instead, it urges that charitable donations be directed to enduring educational, social and religious causes where they will bear fruit. The editors promise to act as “beacon‑lights” pointing out the right direction and offering guidance on how best to use resources. They emphasise that awakening the community cannot be the task of a few individuals alone; every Jain must recognise the necessity of economising limited resources and working collectively for the dissemination of Jain principles and the betterment of society. The editors also describe minor changes in the editorial staff and assure readers that the paper will avoid offending any section of the community while remaining resolute in opposing anything that blocks true progress. They stress that their policy is to live and not stagnate; to co‑operate rather than isolate; and to conserve slender resources. The Gazette will continuously remind Jains to practise prudent charity, use sound discretion in giving and support institutions that propagate Jainism and improve lives.