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Jainism and World Peace
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simple meaning of equanimity is to remain peaceful, to have patience. But the deeper meaning is to have even mindedness with regard to entire existence and to maintain calm and equilibrium, stability and impartiality of mind in any kind of circumstances whether favourable or adverse. 'samoya e sarnano hoi'- means that you can be Sramana only when you can observe equanimity. To be able to ramain in true equanimity is the sign of ultimate inclusions, bravery and fortitude. Lord Mahāvira observed equanimity during his intire life and then attained the state of Mahāvira i.e. great conqueror. The virtue of equanimity consists of three invaluable parts viz. Samyak Darśana(right vision), Samyak jñāna(right knowledge) and Samyak Caritra ( right conduct).
Practical approach towards world peace
For the manifestation of equanimity, peace and amity Bhagavāna Mahāvīra has shown three means of non-violence :
A. Equipoise, B. Love and Friendship - good will and
C. Service - attendance.
A. Equipoise
Think of all creatures like yourself. This is the basis of social awareness and self-liberation. Regarding the same, Bhagavāna Mahāvīra has clearly stated that - savve pāņā piyāuy........, savvesim jiviyaṁ piya.
-- Ācārānga - 2/3/4. i.e. "All the creatures love their lives. All like happiness and dislike unhappiness. No one likes to be slaughtered. All the creatures want to live and not to die. All seek harmony and peace. So no creature should be treated with violence. Because -
tumaṁsi nāma saccheva jaṁ hamtavvam tti mannasi tumarsi nāma saccheva jaṁ ajjhāveyavvam tti mannasi
tumassi nāma saccheva jar pariyāveyavvaṁ tti mannasi The one, whom you want to kill is you only. The one, whom you want to rule is you only.
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