Mahavira Life and Philosophy

Author(s): Sumeruchand Diwakar Shastri
Publisher: Jain Mitra Mandal

Page 89

turned the pages of Jain works for a Kindly light in that encircling gloom." When I met Gandhiji in Wardha Ashram iz: 1934 he said, “It is remarkable that unlike Vedic religion Jainism stands for pure Ahimsa without any reservation." In view of the prevailing hatred, vanity, discord, animosity and other evil tendencies it appears that we have unwisely constructed our houses over a silentlooking volcano and no one knows what will happen, the moment it becomes active to emit fire out of it. The ambrosia of Ahimsa is the only effec. tive and powerful remedy to undo the perpicious effects of unabated materialism and self-centred outlook. Mere name of Ahimsa or sweet orations in its praise would not serve our purpose. It must be honestly translated into life.
The term Ahimsa is negative implying abstinence from killing any living being but it is also a positive virtue based upon universal and fraternal outlook and compassion towards all creatures. Non-violence comprises of purity of thought, word and deed motivated by unbounded compassion and genuine love.
Jain thinkers have enjoined upon a votary of Ahimsa to get rid of such violent, callous and cruel practices as meat-eating, hunting for sport and drinking which make the heart merciless and, in fact, kill the conscience. The 'noble indeal of sanctity of life should be honoured without any reservation. If one takes a broader outlook and adopts a benevolent attitude, he will immediately understand