Mahavira and his Teaching

Author(s): C C Shah, Rishabhdas Ranka, Dalsukh Malvania
Publisher: Bhagwan Mahavir 2500th Nirvan Mahotsava Samiti

Page 148

RELEVANCE OF JAINA ETHICS IN THE PRESENT AGE
141
IT
We have deliberately mentioned these meditations concerning these vows in order to see that modern society can be really benefitted if we take into account atleast some of these meditations, atleast to some extent. It is not possible to go into details of these meditations but by way of illustration, it can be observed that our present generation lacks proper moral guidance. That is why they became addicted to drinks and to exciting pictures and books. We can mend their ways to a great extent if these undesirable and exciting drinks, books, pictures are eliminated at least to some extent. We do not mean complete selfexterpation. That is neither possible nor desirable in the present context. Real virtue means moderation--following the golden mean between the two extremes. So pictures should not be banned but they should also include something morally high and inspiring also. There should be less sex-provoking scenes. Similar moderation is required in other spheres as well. Our makers of society will do something really commendable if they popularise these meditations and vows because the present generations can really be inspired and moulded by these noble ideals of conduct.
Even at the risk of repetition, we may again observe that these five vows are really of profound significance even today. That is why, Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation-tried to restress on these ideals of truth and non-violence. Jainas have treated them in their comprehensive senses. For example, nonviolence or truth means practising these lofty ideals mentally, vocally and physically. Again, they are not merely negativistic in their approach. They have their positive aspects as well. For example, non-violence is not merely non-killing. It is also kindness, mercy, love etc. Jainas very much laid stress on their positive aspects as well. Their application and importance in the present age can be hardly denied by any one because evidently the present world needs these ideals as this age seems to be the age of growing moral and spiritual bankruptcy.
After briefly and critically discussing these vows and showing their application in the present world, now it would be proper