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THE MESSAGE OF JAINISM
19
“Amity is said to be that mentality which makes one wish that no creature may commit sins, that no creature may endure any suffering, and that the whole universe may attain Salvation.
“ That attitude is said to be Appreciation which shows full admiration for the virtues of those who have shaken off all sins and who can penetrate through the essence of all things
“ Compassion is said to be that attitude of mind which inclines one to help all creatures who are afflicted and needy, who are beset with fear and who beg for their lives.
“Equanimity is said to be that attitude of impartiality, or rather of lenient indifference, which one should have towards those who commit cruel deeds, who openly blaspheme the Divine or the spiritual teacher, and who are given to blatant self-applause."
It is clear that all such principles, put in action, guarantee the highest amount of happiness and peace within the whole brotherhood of living creatures. They promise such a heavenly state of general bliss that one might wish them to be universally adopted and followed for the benefit of all that lives.
On the.other hand, it is true that their fulfilment must entail what appears to be a kind of sacrifice on behalf of the individual.
This apparent sacrifice is being called for in order to bring about the desired state of general well-being for the
Shree Sudharmaswami Gyanbhandar-Umara, Surat
www.umaragyanbhandar.com
