Light of Nonviolence

Author(s): Sushilmuni
Publisher: Vishwa Ahimsa Sangh Delhi

Page 17

interpretation of Jainist philosophy.
This view, I believe, has gained some currency only because Jainist philosophy is not afraid of admitting to a genuine ignorance before the eternal silence of things and the great questions. Also, Jain philosophy, in terms of its ethics, ontology, and logic, is nonabsolutist, materialistic, and pragmatic. Indeed, these are the signs of a mature philosophy of life rather than one of simple pessimism or optimism.
The Jain ideals for human, moral, and social development, I believe, are among the best in world philosophy, East or West. This is what I think attracted so many people including myself to Guruji: a vision, an energy, and a faith that things not only should but really can be different. Guruji, more than any other person I have met, embodied the ideals of the arihantas, the perfected, nonviolent, free beings, in his life, thought, and action.
3 Guruji was a charismatic, warm, and heroic man. He stood six feet tall although he seemed much taller. He was strongly built and he spoke inspirationally and truthfully about human nature, the meaning of life, and enlightenment. He believed deeply in the nobler, higher purposes of human existence and he could be infinitely patient with those who did not. Wherever Guruji journeyed around the world, he was sought after for his insightful intelligence, his loving soul, and his wisdom.