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Ahimsa
Ahimsa
intent that you do not want to hurt any living being, and repent for the times you are not able to maintain it.
as the veils of ignorance multiply. The consequence of this is further misery and a birth in a lower life form.' People will indeed understand this when you explain it to them in this way. Violence spoils the human intellect.
Questioner: I may feel strongly about practicing Ahimsa but what can I do when an individual does not believe in it at all?
Questioner : Is it really possible to live a life in this world filled with myriads of living beings without hurting any one of them? Can we satisfy every living being surrounding us in every circumstance?
Dadashri : Whoever desires to do so, can do so. If the goal of Ahimsa is not attained in one lifetime, it will be attained in two or three lifetimes. If your goal and decision is firm and you maintain Ahimsa in your awareness, then absolute Ahimsa is inevitable.
Non-violence Prevails Over Violence Questioner : What should one do to stop violence?
Dadashri : The intent of non-violence must arise continuously from within. Lord Mahavir has left behind a very clear distinction between violence and non-violence. He knew that an era of violent times was approaching and therefore He said, "Face all violence with non-violence." If someone uses the weapon of violence, you should use the weapon of non-violence against him. Only this approach will lead to happiness. Violence only stops with non-violence.
Understanding Non-violence Questioner: People are frequently violent. How can they be changed to become non-violent?
Dadashri : You have to make them understand. You have to explain to them, "The Lord resides in every living being. If you hurt any living being you will incur liability for the hurt and violence caused. This results in an obstruction in spiritual progress
Dadashri : If you feel strongly about practicing Ahimsa, then you should practice it and calmly explain it to others whether they believe in it or not. They will start to believe in it if you use this approach. If you make an effort, then one day you will succeed.
Questioner : What should we do if they are not receptive to it even after explaining Ahimsa calmly and with love? Should we allow the violence to continue, or should we attempt to stop it forcefully?
Dadashri : You should pray to whichever Lord you believe in and say: "Dear Lord, make everyone non-violent." Pray in this manner. You must have such inner intent.
The Problem Of Bedbugs
Questioner : What should we do about the growing infestation of bedbugs in our homes?
Dadashri : Many years ago, we had the same problem in our household. I could not bear to let a bedbug bite me on the neck, so I would pick it up and put it on my leg, and let it bite me there. How could we send the poor insect away hungry when it has come to this restaurant of ours? It is not right to let it go hungry. You will not have such strength of non-violence.
