FROM THE PUBLISHER

"This book presents a detailed fieldwork-based study of the ancient Indian religion of Jainism. Drawing on field research in northern Gujarat and on the study of both ancient Sanskrit and Prakrit and modern vernacular Jain religious literature, John Cort provides a rounded portrait of the religion as it is practiced today."--BOOK JACKET.

SYNOPSIS

This book offers an illuminating portrait of the ancient Indian religion of Jainism. Based on field research in northern Gujarat as well as on the study of ancient Sanskrit and modern vernacular Jain religious literature, John Cort discusses the major facets of Jain practice-the annual festivals, ascetic and dietary practices, interactions between laity and monks and nuns, and temple worship.