________________
Truth is infinite. Only omniscient lords can know it all. We try to know it in parts by looking at it from different viewpoints. Doctrine of Anekanta or multiplicity of viewpoints is essential to resolve conflicts and to know the
whole truth. ► Human beings practice institution of vows including fasting
in various degrees, repentance, meditation and self study to progress on the path of self realization.
The Jain way of life is said to be based on Ahimsa (non violence), Anekanta (multiplicity of viewpoint or many sided truth) and Aparigraha (limiting possessions) with Ahimsa as the most important principles. The practitioner needs to be ever observant and careful in all the activities so as to minimize Himsa. One need not be born in a Jain family to practise these values.
Romain Rolland said “The sages, who discovered the law of Nonviolence in the midst of violence, were greater geniuses than Newton, greater warriors than Wellington. Nonviolence is the law of our species as violence is the law of the brute."90
Samantbhadra in 3rd century A.D. said: O Lord (Mahavira)! Your Tirth is all inclusive, is based on relativity of viewpoints and eliminates all pains regardless of their gender, race or realms of their existence (hell / heaven / human or sub human). Hence it is Sarvodaya tirth or enlightenment of all."
Notes and References
The discovery of the Indus Civilization seems to have thrown a new light on the antiquity of Jainism. The evidence suggests that Jainism as even known among the people of the pre Indus Valley around 3000-3500 B.C. Buddhist and Vedic literature also strongly suggest that Jainism existed when they were present and even before. Pt. Daulatramji, Chahadhālā, Trans. Dr. Kirit P. Gosalia, (Aligarh: Teerthdham Mangalayatan, 2007), pp 1.1-1.3 Tīna bhuvana mem sāra, vītarāgavijñānatā. Sivasvarūpasivakāra, namahumtriyoga samhārikem.1.
Gandhi & Jainism
Pg.261
