________________
If Ahimsa is interpreted only as a narrowly confined religious doctrine or practice, it will not be able to tackle the escalating violence syndrome. That is how even after the end of a war, cold war continues and keeps alive the violent emotions. Riots may appear to be controlled by tough police action and patrolling, but the hostile feeling persists and raises its ugly head again at the least provocation. This is because violence has not been tackled at its roots in the minds and hearts of people.
Ahimsa carries in itself the feeling of compassion, the courage of tolerance, the patience of synthesis, the earnestness of cooperation and the stimulant of goodwill and fellow feeling. The policy of non-violence incorporates the concept of adjustment and accommodation and respect for different viewpoints. A nation cannot develop with a rod in hand and with violent show of power or strength. Change of heart is the basic starting point for controlling and overcoming violent action and thought and laying the foundations for harmonious progress. Civilization and cultures have flourished in times of peace when the balance has titled more on the side of non-violence than violence.
It is through change of mindset the one could be persuaded to reject hatred and embrace love, to give up exploitation and work for justice, and to foster equality in place of social and economic disparities. So long as the individual, society, political system, and economic and social structure are not influenced by the culture of non-violence, violence would continue to poison the society with bitterness and divisive tendencies. It is paradoxical that one can be easily trained to be violent; there are no arrangements for being trained to be non-violent. There is not enough awareness about the long-term efficacy of non-violent approach or the need to be properly trained to practice nonviolence in day-to-day life. Through techniques of Preksha Dhyan and meditation, negative emotions can be eliminated. A more positive outlook on life helps better concentration, relaxation and visualization.
Ahimsa: The Ultimate Winner
*
(246)
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
