$JES 901 Jainism and Spiritual Awakening E9

Author(s): JAINA Education Committee
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

Page 90

15 - JAIN WAY OF LIFE AND ETHICAL LIVING AND ENVIRONMENT
15 - Jain Way of Life and Ethical Living and
Environment
A. Jain Ethics Jainism states that; Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Vegetation which constitute the five basic elements of our environment, possess life. They possess one sense, which is the sense of touch. Animals and human beings possess all five senses and a mind. The five senses are: touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing.
Human beings are also blessed with advanced developed thinking as compared to animals. Therefore, humans possess the following advantages, disadvantages, and responsibilities
Humans possess free will, they are capable of doing meditation, and to witness their own thoughts and actions (knower and observer) and hence, they can remove the Karma before their maturity (Sakäm Nirjarä) and can attain liberation.
If Humans use their free-will and power in the destruction of others, they can suffer in hell and go back into lowest form of life which is known as Nigod and may suffer there indefinitely.
Humans have the responsibility to achieve oneness and harmony amongst all living beings, including the environment, through compassionate living and disciplined behavior.
Lord Mahävir's entire life was full of compassion and was an example of how to live in perfect harmony with nature and provide utmost respect for the environment.
Lord Mahävir made the following profound statements of all times:
“All life is bound together by mutual support and interdependence." This is an ancient Jain scriptural aphorism of Tattvärtha sutra.
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