________________
AHIMSA TEACHING
Mahavir emphasized on the fact that as pain is disliked by us so it is disliked by all beings. The whole edifice of the ahimsa way of life rests on this basic concept. We should try to understand the importance of this statement. Mahavir is going deeply into the realm of thoughts, feelings and sentiments. It is a clear indication that himsa and ahimsa are essentially connected with feelings. In order to accept and follow ahimsa we should try to tackle himsa at the level of feelings and from there proceed to influence every field of life.
Violence is born when we respond to stimuli gained through sense organs. Other than the autonomic physiological response, this response depends on our psychological built-up. This, in turn, depends on various factors --- karma, inheritance, basic programming (till seven years of age), social learning, etc.
To block, oppose, impede, obstruct is himsa in its ideal definition. And to refrain completely from doing so is ahimsa. But practically this is not achievable unless there is absolute isolation, isolation not just physically but mentally as well. It is something like absolute zero in physical terms. It is, but is not achievable. The concepts of Maha-vrat and Anu-vrat in Jainism signify the process of gradual development of purity of thought and conduct. Any transformation, progress or development necessarily has levels of accomplishment and they can be attained through level-specific practice and perseverance. This calls for concerted and continued efforts, and not just ritual indoctrination or acceptance of some sets of vows. The purpose of defining the ideal is to derive practical or approachable rules and codes for different levels
148
AHIMSA: THE SCIENCE OF PEACE Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
