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"In conclusion let me assert my conviction that Jainism is an original system,
quite distinct and independent from all others; and that therefore it is of
great importance for the study of philosophical thoughts and religious life in
ancient India."
Dr. Herman Jacobi
"What would be the condition of the Indian Sanskrit literature if the
contribution of the Jains were removed? The more I study Jain literature the
more happy and wonder struck I am."
Dr. Hertel, Germany
"Jainism is of a very high order. Its important teachings are based upon
science. The more the scientific knowledge advances the more that Jain teachings
will be proven."
L. P. Tessetori, Italy
"I adore so greatly the principles of the Jain religion, that I would like to be
reborn in a Jain community."
George Bernard Shaw
"Lofty ideas and high ascetic practices are found in Jainism. It is impossible
to know the beginning of Jainism."
Major General Forlong
"The Jains have written great masterpieces only for the benefit of the world."
Dr. Hertel, Germany
"I say with conviction that the doctrine for which the name of Lord Mahavira is
glorified nowadays is the doctrine of Ahimsa. If anyone has practiced to the
fullest extent and has propagated most the doctrine of Ahimsa, it was Lord
Mahavira."
Mahatma Gandhi
"Mahavira proclaimed in India that religion is a reality and not a mere social
convention. It is really true that salvation can not be had by merely observing
external ceremonies. Religion cannot make any difference between man and man."
Dr. Rabindranath Tagore
"We learn from scriptures (Sashtras) and commentaries that Jainism is existing
from beginningless time. This fact is indisputable and free from difference of
opinion. There is much historical evidence on this point."
Lokamanya Bala Gangadhar Tilak
"Jainism has contributed to the world the sublime doctrine of Ahimsa. No other
religion has emphasized the importance of Ahimsa and carried its practice to the
extent that Jainism has done. Jainism deserves to become the universal religion
because of its Ahimsa doctrine."
Justice Ranglekar, Bombay High Court
"The Jain Sadhu leads a life which is praised by all. He practices the vratas
and rites strictly and shows to the world the way one has to go in order to
realize the atma (soul). Even the life of a Jain householder is so faultless
that India should be proud of him."
Dr. Satischandra Vidhya Bhushan
"The right of welcoming the delegates of the universal peace organization
belongs to the Jains only. Because Ahimsa alone contributes to the establishment
of universal peace. Tirthankaras, the propounders of Jainism, preached to the
world the Ahimsa doctrine. Therefore, who else except the followers of Bhagavan
Parsvanath and Mahavira can preach universal peace?"
Dr. Radha Vinodpal
"There is nothing wonderful in my saying that Jainism was in existence long
before the Vedas were composed."
Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, Vice President, India
"Truly speaking, Jainism is an independent and original religion, for it is
neither Hinduism nor Vedic religion, but of course it is an aspect of Indian
life, culture, and philosophy."
Shri Jawaharlal Nehru, Prime Minister, India
"I am not Rama. I have no desire for material things. Like Jains I want to
establish peace within myself."
Yoga Vasishta, Chapter 15, Sloka 8 the saying of Rama
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