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JAINA ETHICS
Jainism prohibits killing either in the name of gods by way
of sacrifice or for guests as a mark of respect. One should not kill animals like lions, tigers, snakes etc., on the ground that they harm others. It has to be conceded that these animals do not harm those who do not put them in fear or hold out threats of harm. In the world of animals there is no wanton killing. In fact, as compared with men, animals behave more kindly and live together. Killing horrifies because all beings wish to live and not to be slain. It is now found that even wild birds and animals have a purpose to serve and that is why a movement for protection of wild life is being undertaken by Governments and humanitarian organizations. Killing beings in misery or suffering, on the ground that they will be free from pain and agony is violence. In. such cases, one should give medical assistance or nursing. Happiness and misery are the fruits of one's own Karmas previously acquired. Acts of killing are positively harmful as they cause greater pain to the animals concerned than mere suffering due to disease or injury. There will be greater bondage of evil Karmas to the killer. Killing is a great sin because all beings wish to live and never wish to be slain. Compassion is the beneficent mother
of all beings.
Samantabhadra has laid down that there are five transgressions (aticãras) of the vow of Ahimsa. They are: chedana, bandhana, piḍana, atibhārārōpaṇa and āhāravāraṇā.10 These affect the purity of the vow in as much as each of these five acts brings suffering to the beings like servants and animals. Chedana means cutting of ear. nose or any other limb with any sharp instrument like a sword, axe or sickle. It is applied to purposeless cutting of trees or barks of trees. This is a merciless act due to carelessness or as a matter of punishment. Bandhana is keeping men or beasts in captivity, the tying of cattle, horses, dogs 'and other beasts of domestic use. The principle to be followed is that tying should be with consideration (sāpekṣa). It applies to keeping birds like parrots, pet birds etc in cages. Keeping persons accused of offences in chains or tied hands and foot by ropes more than what is necessary to prevent them from running away is a trans
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