Mahavira Life and Philosophy

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

Page 95

whether an act comes apder the purview of violence or otherwise. With a view to achieve merra] purity and equanimity one must try his level best to be as much merciful as the circumstances permit bin to practise. The householder's non-violence is partial and he cannot attain perfection in its practice due to his various responsibilities and liabilities. As he advances in spiritual plane and controls bis passions he can make rapid strides on the path of progress and gradually become perfect in his achievement. The complete and flawless practice of Ahimsa raises the man to Godhood. This Ahimsa gives Light, provides Delight and bestows Might to its faithful and honest aspirant
The life of mercy has a touch of Divinity therein. These words are thought-provoking, "All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth (Psalm 25:10). Be ye ! therefore, merciful for your Father also is merciful" (Luke VI, 36). Shakespeare also honours this view when he says, “It is an attribute to God himself.” (Merchant of Venice).
Gandhiji who is known as the greatest disciple of Ahimsa was, in fact, on the lowest rung of the ladder. He aspired to practise the highest type of Ahimsa by becoming a nude Jain monk. When Churchill had rebuked Gandhiji by calling him “A naked Fakir”, he had informed Churchill “I would love to be a paked Fakir but I am not one yet." (The Life of Mahatma Gandhi by L. Fischer P. 473).