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Mahävir-swämi proclaimed a profound truth for all times to come when he said, "One who neglects or disregards the existence of earth, air, fire, water and vegetation, disregards his own existence which is entwined with them". Not only did he preach on environmental and ecological issues, but his entire life was also an example of how to live in perfect harmony with the environment.
The ancient Jain scriptural aphorism "Parasparopagraho Jivänäm" (All life is bound together by mutual support and interdependence) is refreshingly contemporary in its premise and in its promise; and forms the basis of the modern day science of ecology.
6.2 Environment
It is logical that for our own well being, we need to respect our environment and look after it.
What does Jainism teach about ecology?
According to Jain scriptures, there are millions of living beings going through the cycle of birth, life, death, and rebirth, just like us and deserved to be treated with respect.
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Ahimsä (non-violence): Ahimsä means more than not hurting others, it means not intending to cause harm, physical, mental or spiritual, to any part of nature. Jainism believes that the five basic elements (earth, water, fire, air, and vegetation) of the universe make our environment possess life. They have their own physical body. They possess only one sense (touch) while insects, birds, fish, animals and humans
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ENVIRONMENT
possess two to five senses (touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing). In addition, human beings are also blessed with advanced developed thinking. Therefore, they are responsible for achieving oneness and harmony with all life by being careful, compassionate, loving and nonviolent.
Compassion: This is the positive aspect of non-violence: to practice an attitude of compassion towards all life. Jains pray that forgiveness and friendliness may reign throughout the world and that all living beings may cherish each other.
Interdependence: This ancient Jain principle teaches that all of nature is bound together, and says that if one does not care for nature one does not care for oneself.
Non possessiveness/Self-restraint: An
Did you know?
All life is bound together by mutual
support and interdependence.
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