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WALKING THEIR TALK
Dr. Atul K. Shah
Editor of Jain Spirit Magazine, writes about the Jain view of Sustainability
In the huge cacophony of environmentalism that exists today, it is easy to become suspicious of the real motives of modern environmentalists. Traditions that exist today have stood the test of time and somehow sustained themselves. They provide us with an interesting case study of how this was achieved and what is the underlying survival instinct. When examining sustainability, it is therefore important to look at ancient traditions and their values. In this essay, we focus on one such community and culture: the Jains.
For thousands of years, the Jains have been living a simple life with a strict vegetarian diet, a deep respect and love for nature and an aspiration towards wisdom, enlightenment and liberation. Their life has not succumbed to greed or materialism, but instead focussed on charity and selflessness. Mahatma Gandhi, one of the greatest leaders of the twentieth century, drew upon Jainism for his thinking and practice of non-violence. In Jainism, there is a constant ambition to elevate life from everyday mundane routines and obligations to spiritual worship and wisdom, art and aesthetics and finally, liberation. For many, business has been their primary source of livelihood, but instead of using it to build their empire or their ego, they have raised social welfare, given valuable community leadership and built lasting social and cultural institutions. This small but vibrant global community has leaders in many busi- ness fields all over the world, from media to agriculture, from management consulting to law and accountancy, from diamond trading to steel. When Jains talk or discuss issues of sustainability, they come from a profound culture and history and these values are often reflected in their practical actions much before any statements or declarations. The world knows little about the Jains because the Jains prefer introspection and constant self-improvement, they are too aware of their own imperfections and prefer quietness to publicity. It is easier to change oneself, but much more difficult to change the world.
Historical evidence suggests that Jainism was practiced in India since at least three thousand years ago, it could have been around for much longer than that. Mahavir was the latest in a series of twenty-four prophets or ford-makers (Tirthankaras) who guided civilisation on the path of self-realisation with minimal violence and maximum compassion. He was born in 599 B.C. and lived primarily in the modern Indian state of Bihar. Mahavir explained that every living being has a zest for life, therefore humanity has a vital role to play as a humble steward of nature (ahimsa).
He explained that violence (himsa) first starts from the mind and injury to another is injury to oneself - all life is inter-dependent (parasparopagraho jivanam).
True Jains do not just leave a light footprint on the planet, they raise the quality of all
life, inspire others through
their own wisdom and
example
in Heritage in Wester
Vironment
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Jain Education International 2010_03
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