Jainism and Science

184. Jainism is perhaps one of the most scientific religions in world and therefore it is still relivant to the society and the world. I do not find any contradiction between Jainism and science. It throws ample light on the real nature of substance or matter as propounded by Jain thinkers. Jain metaphysics approves of the scientific axiom that nothing is destructible. That means nothing can be created out of nothing, or out of something, which does not at all exist in one form or the other. The Jain doctrine is pertinent when it advocates that the universe is uncreated, real, eternal, and infinite with no beginning and end. The modern science has confirmed that this universe has automatic working process and the matter is never destroyed; it only undergoes changes into different states or modes. This is the law of nature.

185. The Jain thinkers expressed their views that plants and vegetables, earth, water, fire and air have souls and are endowed with only one sense organ of touch. Sir Jagdish Chand Basu had clearly proved in early 19th century in ” Private life of Plant” through his scientific experiments beyond doubt that plants and all green vegetation also have life like human beings, and also experience feelings of joy, sorrow, anger, and fear like us. Webster and other scientists have already supported this view. Later on, Basu also proved the view of Jainism that there is life and growth in stones, which is also approved by scientists. The Sammurchana Jivas of Jainism are called abiogenists in science.

186. The Jain doctrine of Karma is fully substantiated by the obvious disparities among living creatures. This doctrine makes the transmigration of souls a proven fact, and establishes their continuity and immortality. The Karma doctrine of Jainism also does away with the necessity of any outside agency, an invisible all pervading, omnipotent and omniscient supreme being, creator, destroyer, preserver and dispenser of justice, for the purpose of punishing or rewarding living beings. Scientists also feel no need of any unknown hand to interfere with the automatic working of the universe.

187. The world-renowned great scientist Einstein in his work “The Theory of Relativity” has already supported the Anekantavada theory of Jainism.188. Scientists also support the theory of Lokakasa and Alokakasa of Jainism. Likewise, scientists on the basis of sound implements like gramophone, Radio and T.V., Casettes etc, prove its theory of sound or word as concrete. Like the Jainism, the European mathematicians Cantor Piano and Frege have accepted the reality of space and time.

189. Modern scientists had to assume an invisible element called “Ether” as the medium to transmit sounds and words across thousands of miles. This is the theory of Dharma and Adharma in Jainism, which has been propounded by Jain thinkers long ago.

190. The most remarkable contribution of Jainism relates to their analysis of atomic linking or the mutual attraction of atoms in the formation of molecules.

191. The principle of vegetarian diet (Sakahara) and vegetables and food habits is also totally supported by medical doctors. Jainism ordains its followers to drink water after proper distillation with the view to avoid the killing of germs of water. Through microscopes scientists have found innumerous tiny germs invisible to the naked eye moving to and fro in water. Jainism lays stress on taking meals before sunset in defense of the vow of non-violence. The modern science also tells that after sunset many tiny living beings come into existence in the atmosphere. These beings enter our food and drinks, and thereby enter our digestive systems. The physicians and Ayurvedic literature also supported Jain’s viewpoint on day dining.

192. Likewise, the principles of psychology, sociology, anthropology, biology, chemistry, mathematics and other branches of science may also be supported by Jain theories.