Quotes
"There is nothing wonderful in my saying that Jainism was in existence long before the Vedas were composed." - Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, Vice President, India
"I adore so greatly the principles of the Jain religion, that I would like to be reborn in a Jain community." - George Bernard Shaw
"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.
"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
"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 Mahavir 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
"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.