Bhagvana Mahavira

Author(s): Tulsi Acharya
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati

Page 71

Transvaluation
63
the flashes of the light of the philosophy taught by Bhagavān Mahāvīra.
In the context of spirituality, Bhagavān Mahāvīra said, "It is better for me if I govern myself through religious discipline and penance rather than be governed by others through force."
The principles of Bhagavān Mahāvīra have a great relevance today. The concept of freedom was developed in the modern period as a practical ideal, Revolution took place against colonialism. In every country, there was a movement to achieve freedom. A major part of the world is free today. Even totalitarianism of today cannot exist without putting on the mask of democracy. Today, even inequality can survive only in the garb of equality. There has never before been such a powerful public opinion in favour of co-existence, human equality, disarmament and anti-militarism. Today no particular name is associated with the origin of these ideals. There have been many great men in the history of the world who have preached these very ideals or identical ideals. But investigation will reveal how vitally the experiences and philosophy of Bhagavão Mahāvīra have contributed to the development of these ideas and ideals.
Inspired by Bhagavān Mahāvira thousands of people attained knowledge and virtue. These people practised and preached the great principles taught by him. They served as the rays of the sun to remove ignorance and lethargy. One of them was Abhayakumāra, the son of king Sreņika, and the Chief Minister of Magadha. He did a lot of work in strengthening the movement for transvaluation advocated by Bhagavān Mahāvīra.
A wood-cutter was initiated as a monk in the Order of Bhagavān Mahāvīra. Prior to his initiation, he used to live in Rājagpha, and sell wood there. Once while he was passing by the Secretariat after initiation, Abhayakumāra saw him,