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Jainism: The Cosmic Vision
inspiration to their husbands; as individuals they have managed large trade and commerce independently. In the Jain way of life, woman has always been bold enough to protect her chastity and defeat the enemy. Her learning has for ever been honoured everywhere. Sadhvis have set an example for the society in matters relating to the ultimate achievement of spiritual progress. The liberation of women, the freedom of women and the advancement of women are integrated in Jain religion. This principles are sure to guide and lead the people in the ensuring decades towards the new path of attainment of the liberty of wome
vomen.
Let us end with one of the daily prayers of Jainism -
I forgive all the living beings and
all the living beings forgive me.
I have amity with all and enmity with none.
Let all the living beings be happy.
Let all the living beings be busy in making others happy. Let the evils disappear from everywhere and Let the whole world be happy.
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Human Rights And Jainism
About 2600 years ago, Bhagwan Mahavira
one of the twenty-four chief propounders and Tirthankaras of the Jain religion, led a mass movement against the then prevalent social system based on caste system and also against the system of slavery so rampant in those days. He said:
एक्का मणुस्स जाई ।
It means that the entire human race is one and distinctions based on caste, colour or creed have no place in human society. No one is superior or inferior, higher or lower to another in terms of status and position in society.
Every great religion has preached universal brotherhood and mutual respect. For instance, the Bible preaches, 'No man liveth unto himself. We are all parts of one another. God hath made all nations that dwell upon the face of the earth of one blood.' In the words of Guru Nanak, 'Neither Hindu nor Muslim am I. We are God's children all.' The Vedas 189
