Lessons of Ahimsa and Anekanta for Contemporary Life

Author(s): Tara Sethia
Publisher: California State Polytechnic University Pomona

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Lessons of Ahimsā and Anekānta for Contemporary Life
the class he is a teacher not a musician but when he plays his piano he is a musician but not a teacher. However, a person has many qualities but it is not possible to identify and express all the qualities at the same time. At any given time, one specific quality becomes primary and rest are considered secondary. Therefore, existence (being) and non-existence (not being) are often comprehended in terms of their varying and changing qualities.
According to Jaina philosophy no new substance will originate and no substance will terminate completely. In the beginning less and endless notion of time, there are infinite substances undergoing infinite modes. Substances goes through constant change. What we see with the naked eye are multifacets of modes that a substance undergoes. Therefore, reality cannot be expressed in just one way (ekānta) there are multiple aspects to it. The application of the philosophy of anekānta enables us to understand the various dimensions of truth, to reconcile sometimes seemingly contradictory views, and facilitates an attitude of respect for other peoples' point of views.
Today we live in a world which is highly diverse in terms of race, ethnicity, culture and language. Similarly, peoples' approaches to understanding reality are very varied. The approach aided by anekānta allows us to be more understanding of other peoples' views. Understanding, however, does not always mean agreeing or compromising with one's own values and beliefs. Therefore, an anekāntika (a person who recognizes multiple aspects of reality) is by nature more tolerant than ekāntika (a person who understands reality from only one perspective and sees things in an absolutist way) individual and is able to maintain his or her values. Imagine the impact of the philosophy of anekanta on the world we live in today. If all people begin to show tolerance for other people's views (even if they do not agree with them), the possibility of conflicts will reduce, tensions will not occur, and wars may be avoided.
The very recognition of and respect for others will help us envision and create a nonviolent world order. To conclude with
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