On the Indian Sect of the Jainas By: Johann Georg Bühler (1837-1898) |
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In his remarkable work On the Indian Sect of the Jainas, Johann Georg Bühler delves deep into the intricacies of Jainism, shedding light on the beliefs, practices, and historical development of this ancient Indian religion. Bühler's comprehensive research, attention to detail, and analytical approach make this book an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Jain faith.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Bühler's ability to present complex concepts with clarity and precision. He begins by providing a historical background of Jainism, exploring its origins, development, and its relationship with other religious traditions in India. Through meticulous examination of ancient scriptures and inscriptions, Bühler offers a rich and comprehensive narrative that traces the evolution of Jain thought and its various philosophical schools.
The author's scholarship truly shines through as he explores Jain ethics, cosmology, and the intricate system of karma. Bühler meticulously analyzes Jain texts and delves into the philosophical debates within the Jain community, making the book a treasure trove of knowledge for those interested in comparative religion and philosophy.
Furthermore, Bühler's approach to the subject matter is impressively impartial. He elucidates not only the remarkable tenets and practices of Jainism but also acknowledges the challenges faced by scholars in understanding and interpreting a religion as complex as Jainism. By presenting a wide range of perspectives and citing multiple sources, he ensures a balanced and nuanced understanding of the subject matter.
The inclusion of illustrations and charts greatly enhances the reading experience, helping the reader visualize key concepts and aesthetic symbols that are integral to Jainism. The glossary at the end of the book is another valuable addition, providing definitions of specialized terms that may be unfamiliar to non-experts.
If there is one limitation to this otherwise exceptional work, it is the dense academic language employed by the author. Some readers may find the book's style and vocabulary slightly challenging, primarily if they are new to the subject. However, perseverance is rewarded with a wealth of knowledge and insights that make the effort worthwhile.
In conclusion, On the Indian Sect of the Jainas is an indispensable contribution to the field of Jainism studies. Johann Georg Bühler's meticulous research, detailed analysis, and unbiased approach make this book a must-read for scholars, students, and enthusiasts seeking a thorough understanding of Jainism. Bühler's work not only illuminates the Jain faith but also serves as a testament to the author's deep reverence for the subject and his lifelong dedication to unraveling its mysteries. BY JOHANN GEORG BÜHLER C.I.E., LLD., PH.D. Member of the Imperial Academy of Sciences, Vienna. TRANSLATED FROM THE GERMAN. EDITED with an OUTLINE of JAINA MYTHOLOGY BY JAS. BURGESS, C.I.E., LL.D., F.R.S.E. 1903. PREFACE. The late Dr. Georg Bühler's essay Ueber die Indische Secte der Jaina , read at the anniversary meeting of the Imperial Academy of Sciences of Vienna on the 26th May 1887, has been for some time out of print in the separate form. Its value as a succinct account of the ['S]râvaka sect, by a scholar conversant with them and their religious literature is well known to European scholars; but to nearly all educated natives of India works published in German and other continental languages are practically sealed books, and thus the fresh information which they are well able to contribute is not elicited. It is hoped that the translation of this small work may meet with their acceptance and that of Europeans in India and elsewhere to whom the original is either unknown or who do not find a foreign language so easy to read as their own... Continue reading book >>
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