Jain Journal 1999 10

SR No.: 520136
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication
Publication Year: 1999
Total Pages: 66
Language: English
Classification: Magazine, India_Jain Journal, & India
File Size: 4 MB

Page 17

MESSAGE OF LORD MAHĀVĪRA
DULI CHAND JAIN
Jaina tradition
Jainism is one of the oldest religious traditions of the world. A great generation of Tīrthankaras, Acāryas, saints and scholars belonged to this tradition. Lord Mahāvīra was the twentyforth Tirthankara of the present era. He was not the founder of Jainism, but was a propounder of this great religion. He realised his true self and attained omniscience by practicing rigorous austerities and penances. A glimpse into his life shows that he was an embodiment of non-violence and compassion. Although Mahāvīra (599 B.C. to 527 B.C.) preached 2500 years ago, his preachings are relevant even today and bear special significance for the spiritual advancement of mankind. His message is full of pragmatic optimism, self-reliance, self-discipline and selfpurification to develop inherent and infinite potentialities of human self.
Contribution of Jaina Faith to Indian thought
The contribution of Jaina faith to Indian thought and life has been very significant. Actually, vegetarianism, as a habit prevailing throughout the Indian continent, practised by a large majority, is an evidence of Jaina influence. Indian art, literature, architecture, painting and sculpture as also every other aspect of life have been greatly influenced by Jaina thoughts. Jains are noted for the catholicity of their outlook and broad-mindedness. The other significant contribution of Jainism is its harmonious and peaceful approach to life. The central themes of the teachings of Lord Mahāvīra are non-violence, nonabsolutism 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.