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01 INTRODUCTION TO JAINISM
philosophies. This concept is called Anekäntaväda (nonabsolutism).
In summary, according to Jainism, the ultimate goal of the soul is to achieve liberation through understanding, realization of reality and self-effort. This is accomplished through the supreme ideals of nonviolence, kindness, reverence for all forms of life, nonpossessiveness, conquering all passions such as attachments and aversions, and through the philosophy of non-absolutism (Anekäntaväda). Above all, these ideals translate into a religion of universal love and compassion not only towards human beings but also towards all forms of life and environment.
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JAINISM AND SPIRITUAL AWAKENING
