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hurt others in the vicinity and he sought refuge in forests or some deserted places. He suffered all types of pains that life offered him without complaining. While in a state of deep meditation nothing touched him as his inner consciousness was aroused. The very thought of violence would result in formation of Karma (a form of matter), he believed. Telling lies or to behave in a way which would cause pain to others or to support a violent act is also a form of violence, according to Mahavir. Violence is first born in mind and then is reflected in speech and behavior. It is truly said : “War is born in the mind of men.” Non-violence be reflected in thought, speech and action and from the principle of non-violence is born truth, celibacy, non-possessiveness and anekant (respecting different viewpoints). Possessiveness and violence are related and therefore without practicing non-possessiveness - aparigraha - it is difficult to practice nonviolence. Aparigraha is not poverty but abdication of inessentials. It can restore economic equality in the world. Greed breeds cruelty and compassion can flow only when one gets rid of greed and develops a sense of treating all as
A Journey of Ahimsa
