Pearls of Jaina Wisdom

SR No.: 001668
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Dulichand Jain
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith
Publication Year: 1997
Total Pages: 368
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Principle, & Religion
File Size: 16 MB

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Pearls of Jaina Wisdom
ficant contribution of Jainism is its harmonious and peaceful approach to life. The central themes of the teachings of Lord Mahāvīra are non-violence, non-absolutism and non-possession. Non-violence
Non-violence is equality of all living creatures. If you feel that every soul is independent and autonomous, you will never trample on its right to live. This leads you to compassion and kindness towards all living beings and results in harmony and peace in the world. The principle of non-violence in Jainism embraces not only human beings but also animals, birds, plants, vegetables and creatures in earth, air and water. It is the holy law of compassion extended to body, mind and speech of a living being. Lord Mahāvīra says, “All living beings desire to live. They detest sorrow and death and desire a long and happy life. Hence one should not inflict pain on any creature, nor have any feeling of antipathy or enmity. One should be friendly towards all creatures.” ( Ācā. Sū., 1.2.3.4.) Nature of Violence
According to the theory of causation ( Karma ), violence leads to bondage and defilement of soul, thus delaying its liberation. The injurer soul suffers from the passions accompanying the act of causing injury and the injured one forms a sense of enmity and hatred towards the injurer. This perpetuates the cycle of birth and death by defilement of both the souls.
The rationale behind the principle of non-violence is the equality of all living beings. Lord Mahāvīra says, "Not to kill any living being is the quintessence of all wisdom. Certainly, one has to understand that non-violence and equality of all living beings are essentials of Dharma." ( Sūtra. Sū., 1.11.10 ) Positive Aspect of Non-violence
The positive side of non-violence is as important as the negative side but it is sometimes not fully appreciated. The positive aspect implies forgivness, kindess, charity and service. This has been beautifully explained in a verse by the renowned Ācārya Amitagati