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Jainism: The World of Conquerors

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At Last! Here is a comprehensive, accurate and up-to-date survey of the Jain community and its ancient faith, written by a well-known practising Jain. In two substantial volumes, totalling around 700 pages, Dr Natubhai Shah has produced what will surely be the definitive guide to Jainism for a long time to come. There is nothing to match it in any European language. These two volumes should be in every important reference library and in every academic library where world religions are studied. Scholars will want their own copy for constant reference (and enjoyment, for this is a very enjoyable work). The author draws on his own experience as a Jain by birth, upbringing and sincere belief, as well as on his extensive studies in English and Indian languages, to present a full picture which is unrivalled in the available literature. He discusses the history of Jainism, the Jain community and popular religion, the modern situation and current trends. In the second volume he ranges widely over the Jain view of the universe, philosophy, logic and science. He outlines the corpus of sacred scriptures and describes the Jain heritage in art and architecture: Jain temples are amongst the finest in India. He ends his work by placing Jainism in the context of the world's spiritual quest. The two volumes are handsomely produced, with well-chosen illustrations. They are well-indexed, with bibliographies of works in English and Indian languages and an extensive glossary of Sanskrit and Prakrit terms.