Śrīmad Rājcandra’s Spiritual Biophilia from a Jain Perspective

The concept of biophilia—the innate human affinity for nature—is expanded by adding a mystical dimension termed spiritual biophilia, drawn from the writings of modern Jain Ācārya Śrīmad Rājcandra. The paper argues that spiritual experiences can deepen ecological connections and promote ethical stewardship of the environment. By integrating insights from ecology, mysticism, and Jain philosophy, it advocates for a holistic nurturing of both the planet and the human spirit. Śrīmad’s works support the biophilia hypothesis and link it to mystical experiences from a Jain perspective, potentially encouraging interfaith dialogue and sustainable living. The study suggests that spiritual biophilia can enrich environmental education, policy, and personal commitment to preserving the natural world.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This interdisciplinary study expands the concept of biophilia by integrating a mystical dimension—spiritual biophilia—through an in depth exploration of biophilic themes in the works of modern Jain Ācārya Śrīmad Rājcandra. This paper aims to expand the concept of biophilia by incorporating a mystical aspect—spiritual biophilia—to emphasize the holistic nurturing of both the planet and the human spirit, promoting ecological ethics in the form of understanding a human spiritual connection to nature in contemporary society. By combining insights from ecology, mysticism, and Jain philosophy, this research aims to foster a deeper appreciation of nature’s inherent value and promote ecological ethics. Śrīmad’s writings and mystical insights provide valuable perspectives on how spiritual experiences can deepen connections to ecological preservation, foster interfaith dialogues on global environmental issues, and enrich contemporary environmental humanities through a biophilia lens. His insights support the biophilia hypothesis and its link to mystical experiences from a Jain perspective, potentially encouraging ethical stewardship and environmental care. The paper discusses key principles of biophilia and their significance to environmental ethics, focusing on mutual respect and ethical considerations for all living entities. It explores spiritual biophilia in Śrīmad Rājcandra’s writings and engages with traditional texts from his lineage that align with the biophilia hypothesis, advocating for sustainable living and environmental stewardship. By integrating a Jain perspective, this study seeks to enhance the biophilia hypothesis with spiritual and moral dimensions, promoting a deeper appreciation of nature’s inherent value with broader implications for environmental education, policy, community engagement, and personal commitment to connecting with and preserving the natural world by considering the spiritual dimensions of human-nature relationships.