Jain Journal 2001 07

Author(s): Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Page 50

JAIN: THE RELEVANCE OF THE TEACHINGS OF LORD MAHĀVĪRA
essentially material which gets interlinked with immaterial soul. As particles of dust get attached to the body smeared with oil, so does Karma with the soul. It is on account of Karma that the soul has to suffer and undergo various births and rebirths in the diverse spheres of life as gods, men or animals. Lord Mahāvīra says, "Attachment and aversion are the root causes of Karma and Karma originates from infatuation, Karma is the root cause of birth and death and these (birth and death) are said to be the source of misery." He further aids, "None can escape the effect of their own past Karmas. "20
Relevance of Jaina Ethics
Dr. Radhakrishnan has rightly observed that the name Jainism indicates the predominantly ethical character of the system.21 Although Jainism is much more than a code of ethics, but it is true to say that ethics occupies here the most important place. Some thinkers say that metaphysics has divided Indian philosophers, but ethics has united them. Sometimes it is said that Jaina ethics is extremely ascetic in character but this is actually not true. The fact that there is clear-cut distinction between the code of the monks and the code of the householders and there is a marked relaxation of virtues and vows meant for commoners. The present generation lacks proper moral guidance. Hence the five vows of truth, non-violence, non-stealing, chastity and non-possession are really of great significance today. That is why, Mahatma Gandhi practised the ideals of truth and non-violence in social and national life. Thus these ethical values have great relevance in politics, economics and in International affairs. Nation can be peaceful and prosperous if it follows non-violence seriously and sincerely. The principle of non-violence can contribute a great deal in fostering relationship of peaceful co-existence among different warring nations. Similarly non-possession and other virtues practised by Jaina community are significant and relevant in the present era. The ideal of non-possession and non-hoarding can be really useful today as we are very much concerned with the problem of economic inequality.
Mahavira delivered his message in the language of the common people. He established a simple code of conduct which is practised by millions of people even to-day. Hence we can say that Mahavira's contribution was most significant and sizable. This is relevant even to-day and following his message we can realise harmony and peace in our own life and in the society at large.
20. Uttaradhyayana-sutra, 32.7.
21. Indian Philosophy, Vol. I. 286.
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