Jainism and Democracy

Author(s): Indra Chandra Shastri
Publisher: I A S S Jain Conference New Delhi

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JAINISM AND DEMOCRACY
used to assemble together, sing and dance, eat and drink, worship fire and thus develop their social life. Then, we have the study of ancient lore which infused pride for noble heritage, the feeling which is essential for pre-servation and growth of a society. The birth of male child was necessary for continuance as well as the strength of society. Social development was the basic standard for valuation in Vedic society. Killing of animals was a necessary part of the social gatherings of non-vegetarians society. Consequently, the principle of non-violence automatically came into disregard. On the contrary a person of means not performing bloody sacrifices came to be regarded as a sinner. Similarly, celibacy was a sin as long as one did not see the face of a son. At the time of marriage the bride was enjoined to give birth to ten sons. In this society violence and sexual intercourse are not sins by themselves, but only when they interfered with social set up. The check aimed at only the social stability. Within the limits they were not only allowed but encouraged and were prescribed as social obligations.
Later, when spiritualism got dominance over secularism and universal ethics got more appreciation. Brahamanical tradition also accepted non-violence etc. as the basis of morality. But, it was careful not to injure the interest of the institute of sacrifices. It held that the violence committed for the sake of sacrifice is not a sin. In due course dispassionate thinkers, like Vachaspati Mishra, came forward and held that violence in sacrifice also is a sin. But, at the same time they
said, it is amply repaid by the virtue accumulated Jain Education International .