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JULY, 1971
At this point I would like to speak about three aspects of his teaching which should be emphatically proclaimed in the world today-the world which is moving headlong towards destruction because of its failure to appreciate the goal and essence of human existence.
First, Lord Mahavira was convinced about the absolute equality of all human beings. To him birth or caste were of little importance. So he said: "Venerable is he who vieweth all creatures as his own self and seeth them all alike." That is why he taught the virtue of humility and said: "Such is humility. It is the root of dharma, mokşa is its juice. By humility ye learn the Scriptures quickly and attain fame, and, in the end, liberation of the soul."
Secondly, we notice the emphasis on ethical principles. Lord Mahavira was keen to replace the idea of being exalted over the world by that of keeping pure from the world. The idea of a 'permissive society' is gradually taking root in the minds of the people today. The concept of "samyak caritra', the last of the Triratna, should be preached more and more in modern times.
Finally, the essential faith in the reverence for life is a much needed virtue today: "Inujre no living creature, destroy none-ahimsā paramo dharmah" should be proclaimed aloud and declared before the world that wishes to bring peace through force. What a contradiction! The practice of ahimsa counteracts this destructive evil spirit as it operates with educative effect. This induces the compassionate feeling that helps humanity to see everything from a proper perspective.
Speech delivered on the occasion of the Seventh Anniversary of the Jain Information Bureau sponsored by Jain Bhawan on the Mahavira Jayanti Day on April 8, 1971.
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