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3. Parigrahapariman - The vow of curbing the acquisitive and possessive instinct.
Thus, in the present day worldwide context, his teachings have significant relevance for controlling the unbridled march of consumerism and increasing attachment to limitless material comforts. These are core elements for strengthening the ethical content and direction of life and promoting peaceful existence with others imbued with the spirit of mutual trust and healthy interdependence.
After 30 years of continuous and unremitting effort to propagate Ahimsa, Anekant, Syadvad and Aparigraha, at the age of 72, Mahavir had his last meditation at Pavapuri on the banks of a serene and tranquil lake in utterly peaceful natural surroundings. He attained Nirvana most peacefully and blissfully in the early hours of the fifteenth day of the dark fortnight of Kartik month in 527 B.C. His Nirvana has since been traditionally celebrated by Jains now for over 25 centuries as Diwali or the festival of light.
Mahavir never wanted to be worshipped; he wanted to be followed. Let us, therefore, follow his teachings and endeavour to realize them within our respective capacities to become nobler human beings, more responsible ecology-conscious world citizens and increasingly detached souls.
Jain Education International
Ahimsa: The Ultimate Winner
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