Jaina Ethics (Review)
Summary
Dayanand Bhargava’s *Jaina Ethics* (1968) explores Jain ethical systems within a broader spiritual and metaphysical framework, emphasizing their enduring relevance amid modern societal shifts. Originally a doctoral dissertation, the book expands into a comprehensive analysis, bridging ethics with metaphysical concepts and spiritual development. While ethics is central to chapters on householder and monastic conduct, as well as penances, the text also delves into themes like the "three jewels" (right faith, knowledge, and conduct) and stages of spiritual progress. The author adopts a comparative approach, linking Jain ethics to Western and Indian philosophical traditions, though critics note potential overreliance on external validation. The review highlights the unique dual ethical codes for Jaina laypeople and monks, arguing against the author’s claim that monastic life is prioritized. It also critiques the concluding chapter’s political framing of spiritual ethics and suggests deeper engagement with contemporary Jaina practices, particularly among lay business communities. Despite minor structural and emphasis issues, the work is praised for its rigorous research, detailed footnotes, and valuable index. Overall, *Jaina Ethics* offers a scholarly yet accessible resource on Jainism’s ethical and spiritual dimensions, with potential to enhance its academic standing through focused thematic prioritization.
Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.
Conclusion
Overall the review portrays Dayanand Bhargava’s “Jaina Ethics†as a welcome overview of Jaina moral philosophy. It emphasises that Jaina ethics is rooted in metaphysical doctrines such as karma and rebirth. While the book has minor issues of translation and could engage more with modern ethical discussions, it successfully synthesises primary sources and highlights the practical significance of the five vows. The reviewer hopes that future works will extend this analysis and apply Jaina ethical insights to contemporary problems, making the tradition relevant to a wider audience.