$JES 911 Essence of World Religions Reference Book

Author(s): Pravin K Shah
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

Page 27

Essence of World Religions
voluntary act and is permitted only when a person is not capable of doing any austerities (removal of his own karma - Nirjarä) due to terminal illness / old age.
The principles of Jainism if properly understood in their right perspective and faithfully adhered to, have great relevance for modern times. These principles can bring contentment, inner happiness and joy in the present life through spiritual development based on freedom from passions and kindness towards all beings. Non-violence (Ahimsa) which strengthens the autonomy of life everywhere, non-absolutism (Anekäntaväda) which strengthens autonomy of thoughts & speech, and non-possessiveness (Aparigraha) which strengthens our satisfaction and compassionate activities are the three realistic principles, which strengthen our belief that every living being has a right to selfexistence. All life is interdependent (Parasparograho Jiwanam). These principles translate into three practices: one should not kill, one should not trample others' thoughts, and one should not trample nature.
If truly adopted these three ideas then there will be: no acts of war, no economic exploitation, and no environmental and ecological destruction.
In summary to live a proper ethical life and to protect the environment Jainism advocates:
•
·
Establish universal friendship and peace through nonviolence
Practice compassionate living by respecting the lives of other beings and the environment we live in
Establish true social equality based on nonacquisitiveness and non-possession
Reconcile differences between diverse religious faiths, political parties, and communal and racial factions through the philosophies of pluralism or non-absolutism
Promote ecological conservation through the values of an austere life-style, non-possessiveness, and self-restraint Practice Vegetarian / Vegan lifestyle by avoiding all animal base foods and products. This includes all dairy products such as milk, cheese, butter, Ghee, and ice
27