Essence of Jainism

SR No.: 001537
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Sukhlal Sanghavi
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad
Publication Year: 1988
Total Pages: 228
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Philosophy, & Religion
File Size: 12 MB

Page 121

Non-violence
97
people in matters of social and religious festivals. On this was raised the palace of the career of the future generations of the Nirgrantha tradition.
Other Propagators of Non-violence
Samprati, the grandson of Asoka, further enriched the heritage of the culture of non-violence under the patronage of Arya Suhasti. Not only within the countries under his domination, but even in the lands outside the boundaries of his kingdom, whero there was no trace whatsoever of a non-violent way of life, Samprati propagated this spirit of non-violence. It is no doubt true that many have contributed to turn to flood, this stream of the spirit of non-violence; it was yet the only aim of the Nirgrantha Anagaras. In cast or west, north of south, wherever they moved in the country, they propagated this spirit of non-violence. They preached the giving up of all addictions that had their roots in violence and that way experienced a fulfilment of the Nirgrantha dharma. Just as Sankarāchārya established four mathas in the four corners of the country and raised the victory-pole of the doctrine of nonduality of Brahma-Brahmädvaita, similarly did Mahāvira raise the victory-poles of the spirit of non-violence and non-dualism in all the four corners of this vast country. Lokmanya Tilak has stated that the spirit of non-violence in Gujarat is a contribution only of the Jainas. History also tells us that at least some influence of the Nirgrantha tradition can be traced in the religious activities that were no-violence-oriented as undertaken by the Vaişnava and many other Vedic traditions. As we discuss and analyse thoroughly each worldly dealing of these Vedic cults, any thinker will come to know easily that the activities of these cults are definitely coloured by the spirit of non-violence of the Nirgranthas. Even to-day, no supporter and upholder of sacrificial ceremonies based on violence to life, has the courage to inspire the sacrificer to slaughter animals.
Ācbarya Hemacandra had brought king Siddharaja of Gujarat under the sway of the spirit of non-violence to a great extent.
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