The Electro‑Magnetic Field in Man
By Gyan Chand Jain
Summary
In ‘The Electro‑Magnetic Field in Man’ Gyan Chand Jain discusses a modern scientific discovery—the presence of a weak but measurable electromagnetic field in living organisms—and correlates it with traditional Jain concepts of karma and the subtle bodies. Noting that awareness of bioelectricity dates back to antiquity he recalls that the physician Galen recommended electric shocks from torpedo fish to cure headaches. Modern instruments such as the electroencephalograph reveal electrical activity during muscular contraction and glandular secretion; and Russian scientist Arkadiev calculated that the human body produces approximately 10.9 watts of electricity. Jain surveys of spiritualist literature show that psychical researchers like R.M. Kasliwal interpret the Sāṃkhya concepts of prakṛti (matter) and puruṣa (spirit) in electromagnetic terms: the magnetic body corresponds to puruṣa and the electric body to prakṛti; with their interaction giving rise to personality. However; Jain argues that such physicalistic interpretations are inadequate because they reduce consciousness to energy and neglect the spiritual nature of the soul. The article explains that Jain doctrine posits three bodies: the gross (audārika) body; the subtle karmic body (kārman) and the luminous or electric body (taijas). Actions and emotions stir the karmic body; attracting karmic particles that attach to it and determine future experiences. On death; the gross body is left behind while the karmic and electric bodies transmigrate with the soul; determining the form of the next birth. Ascetics can strengthen their taijas body to perform extraordinary feats; but both subtle bodies remain attached to the soul until it attains omniscience and sheds them. The discovery that the human electromagnetic field vanishes at death supports this Jain view: the ‘field’ is not the soul but an instrument of karma. Because the electromagnetic field records the effects of mental and physical actions; its persistence explains how karmas bear fruit in later lives; thus reaffirming the law of karma. Jain then reflects on the ethical implications of this discovery. The field affects the health of the gross body and can influence others through sight and touch; therefore thoughts motives and inner purity are more significant for well‑being than overt actions. Yogis who cultivate concentration produce a strong and harmonious field; whereas indulgence in sensual pleasures weakens it. Recognising the field’s transmigratory nature underscores the importance of spiritual life; encourages revaluation of values and suggests that spirituality rather than material prosperity is the core of morality. External actions should not be neglected; but they must embody auspicious intentions. The article argues that awareness of the field supports the Jain belief that individuals are evolving immortal entities who reap the consequences of their actions across lifetimes. Modern scientists are urged to acknowledge the existence of the soul beyond the electromagnetic field and to interpret extra‑physical phenomena as such. Thus; the discovery of bioelectromagnetism provides empirical support for Jain metaphysics and invites a synthesis of science and spirituality.
Conclusion
Gyan Chand Jain concludes that the identification of an electromagnetic field in living beings; although important scientifically; does not equate the field with the soul. The Jain doctrine distinguishes the karmic and electric bodies from the permanent self and teaches that these subtle bodies carry karmic impressions across births. The field’s involvement in health and morality confirms the Jain law of karma and highlights the need for spiritual discipline. He urges modern scientists to recognise the extra‑physical nature of consciousness and to integrate empirical findings with ethical and metaphysical insights.