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Jainism for a Westerner
Greetings. I have very recently started reading the course to learn more about Jainism; It’s a belief I’ve always been drawn to. I am Western so many of the teachings are still somewhat difficult for me to understand. I would like to ask, can a Westerner practice Jainism? I have read up to Lesson 3 topic 1 but it seems to me that sometimes belittles Western Jain believers. How to understand the practical perspective of Jainism for a Westerner?
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3 Replies
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You can practice Jainism. There’s no discrimination on the grounds of being western or race, etc.
I do not believe that any western Jain has been belittled. But yes, the current modern culture (Prevalent in the first world) has been shown to be inferior. But if one looks at it, the current modern western culture is questionable at best. Even the traditional Christian values are on the brink of going extinct.
I believe that westerners can not only practice the spiritual but also the ritualistic aspects of Jainism. The only issue, if at all would be concerning the food.
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Understanding the practical perspective isn’t difficult either.
Almost everything, except for a few rituals and the perfect dietary restrictions can be easily followed.
Look at the first chapter. The bit about the soul is universal, you can live on mars and still believe in it and follow it. Your belief system is independent of our external circumstances, provided you are firm.
Even if we are talking about basic aspects of Jainism like Non-Violence, Truth, Non-Stealing, Celibacy and Hoarding. It can be followed more or less anywhere in the western world. Well…. apart from a war torn country like Ukraine. However, if you are looking at anything in particular, drop a message, the community will help you out.
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