The Philosophy of the Jainas

Summary

The Philosophy of the Jainas Summary: Elizabeth Sharpe’s reprinted essay offers a concise introduction to Jain metaphysics and ethics. She explains that Jain philosophy is dualistic: reality consists of two co‑existent, uncreated categories—jiva (conscious, immortal souls) and ajiva (inanimate matter). Souls are infinite in number and inherently all‑knowing but are bound by karma‑matter that accumulates through thought, word and deed; liberation results from stopping the influx of new karmas and shedding existing karmas through austerities and right conduct. Sharpe outlines the seven and nine tattvas (fundamentals) used to analyse reality: jiva, ajiva, asrava (karmic influx), bandha (bondage), samvara (stoppage), nirjara (dissociation) and moksha (liberation); some authors add punya (merit) and papa (demerit). She emphasises that right faith, right knowledge and right conduct form the three jewels guiding liberation and that Jain ethics are grounded in ahimsa (non‑violence), anekantavada (the doctrine of non‑one‑sidedness) and aparigraha (non‑possession). The essay compares Jain doctrine with Buddhist and Hindu philosophies, noting that while all stress karma and rebirth, Jainism uniquely posits individual souls that are inherently perfect and emphasises self‑reliance for liberation. Sharpe also discusses lay ethics, including five minor vows and the encouragement of charity, truthfulness and chastity. The article concludes by highlighting Mahavira’s historicity and the importance of meditation and restraint.