Jain Spirit 2001 12 No 09

Author(s): Jain Spirit UK
Publisher: UK Young Jains

Page 58

HISTORY
GANDHIJI REVITALISED AHIMSA
Mahendra Dosi examines the Jain influence on Gandhiji, who taught the world about the practical
relevance of ahimsa
IN THE MODERN world, the name
Mahatma Gandhi has become synonymous with non-violence. In many ways, the principles practised by Gandhiji have very special relevance to the Jain community. He exemplified the practical application of some of the basic principles of Jainism. The first of these principles is ahimsa (non-violence), which is fundamental to Jainism. This serves as the main guiding principle in making choices for daily routines and activities for the Jains. It helps in keeping peace and harmony with the surrounding environment. A strict adherence to ahimsa is considered essential for achieving spiritual upliftment.
Gandhiji brought ahimsa to another broader level and demonstrated it to the modern world as a new effective weapon in fighting against injustice and bringing freedom to India. He realised the power of non-violence through his enlightening discussions with one of his friends Shrimad Rajchandra, a well known Jain
saint. Gandhiji knew him as a Jain householder in the diamond and precious stone business, yet totally unattached to the worldly material wealth and ambitions. Gandhiji studied writings of Shrimad Rajchandra, and also corresponded philosophical discussions with him while in Africa. Gandhiji was so impressed with him that he considered Shrimad Rajchandra to be at a level above the great philosophers Tolstoy and Ruskin". Gandhiji also adopted a lifestyle in the tradition of a karmayogi, an ascetic who did not escape into seclusion or monasticism but who got involved in every problem of human existence (karma) while still remaining detached from earthly ambitions
for power or wealth for himself or for his descendants. This lifestyle was consistent with what he observed in Shrimad Rajchandra practising in his daily life based on the Jain principle of aparigraha (non-possession). It also symbolised respect for and conservation of our environment, and minimal consumption of natural
Illustration of Mahatma Gandhi by Raju Shah
"Gandhiji was a
unique 'practical-idealist.”
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Jain Spirit . December 2001 - February 2002