ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 03

Author(s): International School for Jain Studies
Publisher: International School for Jain Studies

Page 27

11. The concept of euthanasia is only about dying well while that of Sallekhanā
Samadhimaraṇa is also about living well. “One who lives a pious life, dies a peaceful
death", it proclaims. 12. The practice of euthanasia is fraught with legal complications while that of Sallekhana
Samadhimaraṇa is not. 13. Killing how-so-ever painlessly is a violent activity so euthanasia may look merciful at the
surface but it is violent in nature. Sallekhana-Samadhimarana, on the other hand, is non
violent from the beginning to the end. 14. The practice of euthanasia does nothing to improve the quality of life of the subject by
way of de-addiction, psychological strengthening, prayers etc while these are a part of the practice of Sallekhana-Samadhimaraṇa.
This comparison clearly shows that there is nothing in common between the practices of euthanasia and Sallekhana-Samādhimarana except that both may be voluntary. No spiritual benefit can ensue from the practice of euthanasia.
4.0 Conclusion From the presentation made, the following conclusions can be drawn:
1. Sallekhana is the most sought after peaceful death, which can relieve the human being
from the fear and misery of death. 2. Sallekhana is relevant in all ages and in all times. It is very much relevant in today's
society as well. 3. Euthanasia is a form of voluntary death that may be resorted to relieve the terminally ill
and miserably suffering human beings from their painful life but it does not compare well with Sallekhanā, which is death in a state of equanimity and peace of mind. Euthanasia has its merits and drawbacks.
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STUDY NOTES version 5.0