Jain Digest 1994 06 Special Issue

Author(s): Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA

Page 11

GURUJI'S MESSAGE ON NONVIOLENCE
Many of us have heard predictions about the future of man and the Earth planet. It is true that the time is coming when there will be communication and involvements with extraterrestrial beings who are far advanced mentally, physiologi- cally and technologically. There is a great possibility that interplanetary wars will begin with the threat of vast destruction to the Earth. Nature methodically takes her course. What we sow, we will reap. The vibrations of violence or thought, word or deed emit from the individual, the family, the society, the world and collectively set the momentum for the ultimate destruc- tion of mankind. Do not become narrow-minded, thinking this is all too incredible. Do not become fearful, burying your head underground like an ostrich. Take inspiration from "Arihantas" to perfect body, mind and soul. The individual can create peace. Non-violence is more powerful than any destructive force. Do not underestimate the power of the Perfected Self. Even one soul can win over destructive force for the world peace if he is so firm in his faith for non-violence. Again we must return to the importance of our goal of Right Knowledge, Right Faith and Right Conduct...we must purify and awaken our highest qualities. Our vibrations of love and the fearlessness that come from non-violence will transform the galaxies. The situation of the world is a change for non-violent people. The time has come when powers of non-violence must become one and united, otherwise the violent insanities of some national leaders can destroy the entire world. Violence is reaching its climax. Violence cannot produce any good result; it can only destroy. Believers in nonviolence must warn others of the effects of violence. The civilization stands the risk of suffering a great loss. We should not become involved with the leaders who are ignorant of the result of violence. It is the duty of non-violent people to make clear that goals cannot be fulfilled through violence. Once the fire of war starts and the major nations become involved, this fire will burn all man-kind. Nothing will be gained. This is indeed a critical time for the world, a test for peacelovers. Non-violence means respect for all forms of life, tolerance, generosity and forgiveness. The message of non
violence was brought to the world from the beginning of time and more recently by Lord Mahavira, Jesus Christ and the Buddha. We must remember their teachings. How have people forgotten the result of the atom bomb at Hiroshima? How have people forgotten the cries of six million slaughtered Jews in concentration camps? If we look closely at history we can see that war and killing are not the solution to national and international problems. If non-violence overcomes violence, the future of man-kind will be very bright. This is a beautiful age when science is growing closer to religion and spirituality. Science is now beginning to prove what the ancient mystics, holy men and yogis have experienced through the ages, concerning the latent powers in man. Scientific researchers, parapsychologists and occultists have experimented extensively, proving the validity of mental telepathy, E.S.P., existence of the aura and etheric body, color therapy, psychic healing and more. Tests have shown how the state of mind affects physical health. Vegetarianism and natural foods, relaxation meditation and yoga have proved to increase the productivity of the mind and body, and to create a state of well-being and inner peace. Man has reached great heights in the fields of science and technology, industry, medicine and education. With respect and love of our mother earth and fellowman, we must not lose all that we have gained. We must not let the destruction of violence throw us back to the beginning of struggle again, when we have advanced so far. Peace-lovers must unite! Non-violence must overcome violence. Most beings are slaves of nature, the elements and the law of karma (cause and effect). Nature is not related to non-violence. It can kill and destroy. Animals have the instincts and his mind. He can realize his ultimate perfection. Perfected beings such as Mahavira, Buddha and Christ felt onesses with all living beings. They saw the Supreme everywhere, and therefore preached non-violence. Absolute nonviolence show the attainment of the highest state of consciousness. Mahavira would not harm even the tiniest of insects because he felt life, oneness and equality for all. He had no feelings of superiority or inferiority. On the crucifix, before Christ left his body, he said, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do" He had so much compassion for his murderers. He was truly non-violent. A common man has fear of sin because of the accumulation of karma or the punishment he may suffer. He may have some faith in non-violence, but he will avoid harming
Jain Digest
June 1994
Page 9