Conversations, Sweet in Jaina Truth

Summary

Leona Smith Kremser’s narrative poem unfolds as a dialogue between Lord Nemi (the twenty‑second Tīrthaṅkara) and the animals destined for slaughter for his wedding feast. The poem opens with a benediction to the ‘praiseworthy’ Lord Nemi, who shared the truth of immortality with the food‑animal community. When Nemi emerges from inward silence he sees animals awaiting death; moved by compassion, he addresses them as humble ones and urges them to listen. The animals speak of their fear and longing for life, while Nemi offers them a vision of liberation through the Jaina path. The poem alternates between solo voices and chorus, creating a musical structure that mirrors call‑and‑response liturgy. It emphasises the equality of souls, reminding readers that even animals have consciousness and are entitled to compassion. Throughout the narrative, Kremser interweaves doctrinal points – the vow of ahiṃsā, the immortality of the soul, the karmic consequences of violence – with lyrical imagery. She quotes scriptural maxims, describes the Lord’s spiritual love and narrates the eventual withdrawal of his teaching presence when the animals attain self‑realisation. The poem ends by situating this episode in Bharatavarsha (ancient India), linking mythic narrative to historical time and reinforcing the idea that renunciation can occur in any era. By recounting this story, the author aims to teach that even a flesh‑eater can begin to erase karma by taking vows of non‑violence and practicing compassion. The combination of narrative, doctrinal exposition and lyrical refrain makes the poem both instructive and emotionally resonant. It serves as a reminder that ethical insight can arise from witnessing suffering and that genuine religion speaks equally to humans and non‑human beings. Kremser’s treatment of Nemi emphasises his role as teacher of animals and highlights the inclusivity of Jain compassion.