________________
15th Biennial JAINA Convention 2009
Celibacy (Brahmacharya) is: it literally means treading into the soul, but conventionally it is taken to mean abstinence from sexual activities. The doctrine prohibits sexual relations other than with one's spouse and restraint in things likely to stimulate sexual desires. This can be connected with the major environmental concern of the population explosion, which is an important contributor in the depletion of resources.
Protection of resources is: nonviolence protects earth, water, air, fire and vegetation, and paves the way for the protection of ecological balance and promotes environmental concerns. Hunting. has been conceived as one of the seven serious⚫ offenses. Not consuming certain raw vegetables is a way to protect the natural propagation cycle of⚫ plants. A few examples of fundamental Jain practices which help in protecting natural⚫ resources are: preventing bathing and washing clothes along river banks, filtering water, eating those ripe fruits from which seeds have been taken out, not unnecessarily plucking even a leaf from trees, taking care while walking to protect⚫ Amity towards all co-habitants of the universe
Carefulness in eating, speaking, movements, and picking up and putting things down
Daily penitential retreat and prayer for the welfare of all living beings and for universal peace • Contentment, tolerance and a non-violent lifestyle
aaa 0 soo0
JAIN LIFESTYLE ECOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
Swasthi Shri Bhattaraka Charukeerthi Panditacharyavarya Swamiji
jainkashi@hotmail.com www.jainkashi.com
There are infinite living particles existing in the world. Human beings are the wisest and cleverest among them. Man loves Mother Nature - but he is also the enemy who harms and destroys the
environment.
Mahavir Swami propagated 'Live and Let Live' and showed a pathway to lead a life within that frame work. He gave a code of conduct to domestic families and ascetics. This code of conduct should be followed strictly to understand and attain the Holy Atman. When followed, this is no doubt the pathway to success!
Ecology - The Jain Way
the smallest creatures, etc. The concept of the five samitis is a designed action to protect life forms. Another designed action is the prohibition pf engaging in such trades that encourage violence. Using minimal quantities of water for daily life routines and not allowing reservoirs to dry out are examples of conserving water resources. Limiting and avoiding unnecessary travel is a step further to maximize the balance of nature.
Vastra parimana advises us to wear only enough clothes to cover the body and not possess unnecessary clothing. Dhana Vyaya parimana instructs us to avoid excessive financial spending. Jeeva Himsa parimana cautions us to minimize activities that are hurtful to other organisms. Jala
In conclusion, the Jain model for environmental protection includes maintaining:
A helping attitude and universal friendship Restraint and minimal use of natural resources and consumables
parimana tells us to use water judiciously. He advises us to live a simple life.
Globalization has brought privatization and liberalization. No limitations are in place. But Jain philosophy clearly advises restraint in all activities and ambitions. If we do not obey the rules laid down by our Tirthankars, human society will be in trouble. Human beings will suffer mentally, physically and spiritually.
The process of simple living provides a solution to all antisocial activities, violence, the economic recession and environmental pollution. We all should follow the principles of Lord Mahavir's teachings and adopt the Jain code of conduct in our lives. 'Live and Let Live' should be projected the world over. We should practice these universal values bypassing any caste, creed, religion and culture.
133
Bhagwan Mahavir's message is contemporary and applicable even after 2600 years. He reminds us to restrict harmful and unlawful activities against the environment, and to join together in creating a peaceful society. He also points out the dire consequences of an unrestrained lifestyle.
