________________
The Value and Heritage of Jain Religion
The universe is full of living creations, big and small, and, therefore, it is impossible to exist without killing or injuring some of the smallest of the living beings. Even in the process of breathing, or drinking or eating, we almost unconsciously kill many sentient beings? Therefore, according to Jainism the minimum of killing should be our ideal. Moreover, it is more serious where killing is done intentionally or through indifference. Therefore, great care should be taken in all our daily activities to see that the minimum of violence is committed by our deeds, speech and mind.
In the universe, there are different forms, different orders of life, such as, human beings, animals, insects, trees and plants, bacteria and even still smaller lives which perhaps be seen only through the most powerful microscopes. Jainism has classified all the living beings according to their sense organs.
Jainism firmly believes that life is sacred, irrespective of caste, colour, creed or nationality and, therefore, not only physical or mental injury to life should be avoided, but all possible kindness should be shown towards all the living beings. This should be the true spirit of Ahimsa. Jainism believes that more weapons are in no way an effective answer to weapons. Lord Mahavira has emphatically declared in Acharanga Sutra that one weapon may be stronger or superior to another, but the path of Ahimsa or peace remains unsurpassed. Fire cannot be put out by fire. It is our duty to stop adding fuel to the fire. Jain scriptures say that a piece of blood-stained cloth cannot be washed with blood, we need water to do it. To achieve peace, world peace, we have to stop the race of armaments and we have to have an unshakeable faith in Samyag Darshana in the effective validity of Ahimsa. For
Jain Education International
7
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
