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Chapter
9
SOME INSPIRATIONAL EXAMPLES, STORIES AND CASE HISTORIES
11 is not so bad and ugly within the Jain community. There always have been, and still remain, many
excellent shravaks and shravikas (lay men and women) who are role models and who observe and strive to practice ahimsa in their day to day lives.
From my limited observations, I present below a sampling of such people. I am sure there are thousands such exemplary people in each community. It would also be appreciated if readers will provide more examples to be included in future editions of this book.
MAHATMA GANDHI, WHOSE WHOLE LIFE WAS A BOOK ON AHIMSA
The terms "ahimsa” and “Mahatma Gandhi” have become synonymous world over. It was Gandhi who inspired many and made “ahimsa” a household word throughout the world. Gandhi-ji was inspired and influenced by the teachings and philosophy of Jainism and his contacts with many Jains, beginning with childhood and throughout his life. One Jain merchant, Srimad Rajchandra, known as Raichand-bhai became his spiritual mentor.
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An Ahimsa Crisis: You Decide
