________________
Human Rights And Jainism community, but to the Brahmin or to some other castes. In those days gotra (clan) was appended to ones name to establish ones superiority. Mahavira discontinued this practice and thus sought to assert the principle of equality among all human beings. He again and again emphasised the fact that deeds and not birth determine one's status or caste in the society.
Slavery was prevalent in Mahavira's times. Slave markets were in existence and human beings were sold like commodities. They were subjected to inhuman treatment and were tortured. To Mahavira this custom was an anathema and he found it revolting. He fasted for 175 days and on the 176th day he broke his fast when he was offered boiled grains by a female slave. This act of his was a talling blow to the system of slavery. Thus, Mahavira in his non-violent way put an end to the caste system and the system of slavery.
Jain religion also lays stress on respecting individual freedom. Yet, one can enjoy one's freedom only when one does not come in the way of other's freedom. This means one has to exercise self-discipline. One should constantly think of others' freedom and try to protect it. Thus, Jain religion believes in controlling unbridled passion and desires so as not to obstruct others path of progress. An individual can enjoy his/her rights fully without hinderance, but it is also the responsibility of an individual to protect others' rights and not to abrogate them. This will ensure the inherent dignity of human family, social progress, better standards of life and enjoyment of freedom. At the heart of Jainism is the principle of 'live and let live'. It also believes that the deeds of human beings are responsible for his happiness or misery. This point of view puts man in the centre
195
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
