Book Title: Jain Studies and Science
Author(s): Mahaveer Raj Gelada
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati

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Page 242
________________ 228 / JAIN STUDIES AND SCIENCE tolerance for others' religion, faith and philosophy or viewpoints; there is lack of harmony; there is lack of respect for moral, ethical and cultural values and there is lack of sensitivity to poverty and inequality. Womanfolk is not given its rightful place. There are various social problems like lack of employment opportunities and the resultant rise in crime and other social evils like addiction to drugs etc. Thus there are various forms of violence spreading in the country. While science and technology and economic growth would help in solving some of these problems, it is possible to manage these complex forces to the benefit of humanity only when the dimension of spirituality is embedded in human knowledge and efforts. DIMENSIONS OF SPIRITUALITY Every religion has a central component - spirituality driven by compassion and love. Rationality and logic are intrinsic to science and spirituality. A spiritual experience is the goal of a deeply religious person, whereas a major discovery or an invention is the goal of a scientific mind. If both the aspects are unified and amalgamated in our own patterns, we can transcend to that level of thinking, in which inity is a cohesive concept. Then the enlightenment of citizenship will take place. For this environment, the two major components - Science and Spirituality have to interact. A peace prayer can be the foundation for both. PEACE PRAYER "Oh Almighty, create thoughts and actions, in the minds of the people of the nation, so that they live united. Oh Almighty, bless the people, to undertake a path of life with righteousness, as righteousness gives the strength of character. Help all religious leaders of the country, to give strength to the people to combat the divisive forces. Guide the people to develop an attitude, to appreciate different viewpoints and ways of lives, and to transform enmity among individuals, organizations and nations, into friendliness and harmony. Jain Education International For Personal & Private Use Only www.jainelibrary.org

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