Ahimsa the Ultimate Winner

SR No.: 001630
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: N P Jain
Publisher: Prakrit Bharti Academy
Publication Year: 2004
Total Pages: 298
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Religion, & Ahimsa
File Size: 18 MB

Page 192

important is that from the beginning and throughout long years of history, Jain religion has stressed the cardinal importance of not only believing in but also practicing AHIMSA (non-violence). Reverence for all forms of life as well as harmonious peaceful coexistence with nature and its elements has been basic to Jain Philosophy.It is indeed not only interesting but highly symbolic that each one of the 24 Tirthankaras of Jain religion has been identified with the sign of a particular animals, bird, flower or planet. Thus the first Tirthankar Bhagavan Rishabhanaath has the symbol of a bull and association with “Vat-vriksha" - huge tree meditating under which he attained Nirvana. The 8th Tirthankar Bhagavan Chandraprabhu has the symbol of "moon” and association with “Naga-Vriksha” tree. The 16th Tirthankar Bhagavan Shantinaath has the sign ofa deer and association with Nandi tree. The 23rd Tirthankar Parshavanaath has the symbol of a serpent; Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankar is associated with Lion and Sagvan' tree.
The remarkable relevance of the principles of Jain religion to present day problems of environment needs wider universal appreciation and understanding. The Jain maxim “Parasparopagraho Jeevanam” reflects ecological balance and spiritual equality amongst all living elements of the Universe. All living organisms, howsoever big or small, irrespective of the degree of their sensory perceptions, are bound together by mutual support and interdependence. The world is in peril today because human beings have seriously and adversely disturbed this judiciously balanced relationship.Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankar (Pathfinder) of the Jain religion said centuries ago:
“One who disregards the existence of the earth, water, fire, air and vegetation disregards one's own existence
which is entwined with them". He also observed:
“The instinct of Self-preservation is universal. Every animate being wants to live and avoid death. Nobody likes suffering. Therefore, do not inflict suffering on
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