Gleanings – ‘Jainism’

Summary

This section reproduces an extract on Jainism from Dr. Pandit Nilakantha Das’s essay on Oriya language and culture. The author explains that the term ‘Jain’ derives from ‘Jina,’ meaning ‘conqueror,’ and refers to the liberated soul who has overcome attachment and ignorance. He argues that Jainism is the only rationalistic religion among the ancient creeds of India; it is based on personal experience rather than divine revelation. The essay emphasises the dual nature of humanity—matter and spirit—and asserts that liberation is achieved when the soul subjugates matter through knowledge, faith and austerity. Nilakantha Das outlines four key principles of Jainism: (1) the individual soul is real and distinct from matter; (2) humans can perfect themselves through spiritual discipline; (3) liberation is attained only when matter is completely conquered; and (4) individuals are wholly responsible for their moral actions. He stresses that Jainism grants absolute religious independence and rejects the notion of a supreme creator or divine grace. The extract also highlights the antiquity of Jain practices, noting that Jainism flourished in the Kalinga region before the arrival of Vedic rituals. The article situates Jain concepts within the cultural history of Orissa (Odisha). It points out that many Sanskrit and Oriya words, such as ‘Purusha’ and ‘Purusottama,’ have Jain origins and that Jain rituals influenced local customs. The author argues that the Jagannath cult at Puri may have absorbed Jain elements, but he acknowledges that the tradition later became associated with Vaishnavism. By compiling these observations, the section underscores Jainism’s pervasive impact on regional language, mythology and religious practice.