Jaina-Dharma (Review)

The review of Amulya Chandra Sen’s Jaina‑Dharma presents the book as a concise yet authoritative introduction to Jainism. Part of the Visvavidya‑samgraha series, the monograph distils the essential information about the lives and teachings of the Jain Tīrthaṅkaras Mahavira and Pārśvanātha. Sen, an accomplished scholar in Jain studies, narrates the biographies of these teachers, their spiritual quest, the emphasis on non‑violence, truthfulness, non‑possession and the path to liberation. The reviewer emphasises that the book should not be seen as merely a summary of existing scholarship; Sen critically revises earlier interpretations when necessary. For instance, he scrutinises dates attributed to Mahavira and Pārśvanātha, clarifies doctrinal differences between the Svetambara and Digambara schools and analyses the development of Jain metaphysics. Sen also highlights the social impact of Jainism on Indian society, from its role in promoting vegetarianism and animal welfare to its contributions to education and commerce. He explains how Jain principles of non‑violence influenced kings and shaped legal codes in medieval India. The book includes discussions on Jain cosmology, the concept of karma, the structure of the universe with its three realms and the cycle of births and deaths. Sen summarises ethical prescriptions such as the five vows for monks and laypeople and describes rituals, festivals and pilgrimage traditions. The review concludes that the monograph is written in clear language and is accessible to general readers as well as scholars. It serves as a useful primer for anyone interested in understanding Jain history, philosophy and practice.

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