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13 - BASIC PRINCIPLES OF ETHICAL CODES OF CONDUCT
13 - Basic Principles of Ethical Codes of
Conduct
A. Three Cardinal Principles of Conduct Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantaväda (multiplicity of views) and Aparigraha (non-possession and non-possessiveness) are three cardinal principles of conduct of Jainism.
Ahimsa (Compassion/Non-violence) In a positive sense, Ahimsa means caring for and sharing with all living beings as well as tending to, protecting and serving them. It entails universal friendliness (Maitri), universal forgiveness (Kshamä), and universal fearlessness (Abhay). The basic tenet of Jainism is "Ahimsa Parmo Dharmah." From an ethical point of view, Dharma means duty. Hence, the tenet indicates - Compassion is the supreme duty of an individual. From a religious philosophical point of view, Dharma means the true nature of a substance. Hence, compassion is the true nature of a human soul. In addition, the Jain dictum "Parasparopagraho Jivänäm” indicates, "Living beings (Souls) render service to one another." Hence the Jain motto should be "Live and Help Others to Live." This is called Compassionate Living. Ahimsa is the principle that Jains teach and strive to practice, not only towards human beings, but also towards all other living beings including the environment. The scriptures tell us: "Do not injure, abuse, oppress, enslave, insult, torment, torture, or kill any living being including plants and vegetables, or pollute water, air, and earth.” The teaching of Ahimsa refers not only to the avoidance of physical acts of violence, but also to the avoidance of violence in the hearts and minds of human beings. Ahimsa also refers to an active concern and compassion for fellow humans and other living beings.
Jain Ahimsa is not due to weakness (Kavartä) or escapism. Many laypeople have fought for the protection of people and their kingdoms.
JAINISM AND SPIRITUAL AWAKENING
