Sallekhana is Not Suicide

SR No.: 001568
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: T K Tukol
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad
Publication Year: 1976
Total Pages: 124
Language: English
Classification: Book_English & Religion
File Size: 8 MB

Page 81

SECTION V
SUICIDE
Suicide is killing oneself by means employed by oneself. The corresponding word in Samskrit is Atmaghäta or Atmahatya ( self-destruction ). The natural instinct of all living beings is self-preservation by protecting oneself against all odds and attacks which are likely to cause injury to the body. Every living being has a fondness for its body and takes care of it by adopting such methods or modes as are necessary to keep it in sound health, free from illness or any form of suffering.
Religion regards the human body as a receptacle of the soul. Man is enjoined by religion and nature to keep it in a sound condition. A sound body is the index of sound health. Man cannot live in happiness if he is not in sound health. He cannot aslo practice his religion with concentration and devotion unless his body is fit to allow him his peace of mind. Mental peace and bodily heatlh are wedded together; one cannot be divorced from the other. That is why every religion lays down certain rules of conduct which are intended to keep the body and mind in good health.
Life is complex and the problems of life are vast. A smooth life needs an ability to solve with ease and skill all the difficulties that often arise in everybody's life. Such ability can be acquired by hard and intelligent study and observation. It has to be used with honesty and grit. He who faces life boldly and with requisite understanding shall alone achieve success. What is necessary is that we should learn to live with courage and honour. Most of our difficulties or misfortunes are of our own making, directly or indirectly. People come to grief because of their weaknesses, physical and mental.