I am Mahavira

Author(s): N L Jain
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith

Page 57

I AM MAHĀVĪRA
non-stealing (honesty), celibacy and non-attachment towards possessions (limitation of possessions). These forms are called vows to be practiced by every laity. They have some negative names but their meanings and senses are highly positive and beneficial to the society. For example, "non-violence' means cultivation of the qualities of love, affection and brotherhood. It involves respect for all kinds of life and the concept of "Live and help others to live."
All the scriptures sermonize the importance and practice of non-violence. However, the society will never be happy merely by sermons. It becomes happy by actually practicing the sermons. Mere thought of non-violence will not make the society happy. It will be so on its practice in life. That is why, the ancient sages have said. "The non-violence is the best religion".
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