Jain Journal 2004 01

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

Page 19

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JAIN JOURNAL: VOL-XXXVIII, NO. 3 JAN. 2004
have equal share in the proceedings and its results. Dialogue trains one in discipline, self-suffering and the acceptance of the other. In Gandhi's opinion, it is only a prayerful spirit that would bring peace and goodwill among religions: “I am convinced that we shall find neither peace nor good will among men through strife amoung men of different religions, through disputation among them. We shall find truth and peace and goodwill if we approach the humblest of manking in a prayerful spirit.”45 In today's contect of violence and religious tensions, efforts taken to end war and conflicts and to restore peace, and the efforts taken to avert religious tensions, etc. are only glimpses of the world's acceptance of the significance of Non-violence and open-mindedness.
And we see these principles openly professed in Jain philosophy and culture. Ahimsā or non-injury to self and others is the quintessence of all dharma (Ahimsā paramo dharmah) and it is relevant in the context of world peace. The contemporary relevance of Jaina dharma is seen in this prime virtue, which in all its expressions, mediates relationships and helps in promoting and building a cosmic society of love and mutual trust, justice and peace. At the best, this and other such values and ideals have enhanced the pluralistic culture of the world, especially India.
45. See Collected works of Mahatma Gandhi, Publication Division of the
Ministry of the Information and Broadcasting Govt. of India, Vol. 64. p. 291