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The Acārānga consists of a good number of poetic verses along with prose, as Dr. Schubring has pointed out in the text edited by him. Subject Matter
The main contents of Ācārānga are as follows: -
1. Concept of soul.
2. Non-violent activity of ascetics mainly the life-style, precepts-man
nerisms, education-language, etc.
3. Narration of authentic ascetic life of Lord Mahavira.
Concept of Non-violence
The very first chapter of Ācārānga starts with the concept of soul and with super commentary on the concept of non-violence in relation to mobile and subtle immobile living beings. In this paper we shall try to find the message of peace and non-violence, particularly embedded in the first chapter of Ācārānga.. The concept of non-violence is so much highlighted in this chapter that it is included in the fundamental philosophy and ethical practices of Jainism. Truly speaking, Peace and Non-violence are no more subjects of philosophy; they are essentially human conduct. We find in Ācārānga the detailed study of the non-violent conduct of ascetics it is the main theme of Ācārānga. Mahavira (5) says, “All creatures desire to live and none wants to die. Consider all living-beings are just like you, you should not kill them nor get them killed by others.” This wisdom and understanding causes to observe abstinence from violence. The absence of violence in personal and social life leads to peace.
The secret of Non-violence (Ahimsā) "says the Daśavaikālikasūtra (6.8)" is self-restraint in regard to all living.-beings, which was realized by
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