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The Path of Arhat : A Religious Democracy
yag Darśana' ( Right perspective ). This, if sincerely followed, generates in it a desire to go deep into all the live problems of life, and it enters into the field of 'Samyag Jñana' (Right knowledge ), and the development of this second stage, if properly directed, is bound to take him to the third stage of ‘Samyag Cáritra' (Right conduct ). This ‘Ratna-trayi' ( three jewels) of Darsana, Jñāna and Caritra, is the starting point of spiritual journey which, with proper efforts leads the soul to ascend the ladder of Gupa-sthanas'. All-pervasive doctrine of Ahirnsā
The doctrine of Ahimsa to be practised in mind, speech and action is yet another factor of practical utility in soothening, sostening and harmonising the international, national and individual relationship. The Jaipa thinkers have touched the new heights of philosophical refinement by introducing the doctrine of Ahirsā even in the process of thinking. Their evolution of the theories of Naya and Syadvāda, is an attempt to recognise even the partial truth, wherever evident, so that reality can be comprehended in its fullest possible extent. Adoption of this method of establishing truth positively leads to the development of toleration of every view-point however contrary it may be to the current and traditional view. If the theories of Naya and Syadyāda are extended to every sphere of human activity, individual and social life on this planet would be revolutionised completely. Softness and love are the qualities of heart which are developed by the practice of Ahirsā (non-violence ). All hatred and cruelty automatically stop once these qualities are developed and applied.
The doctrine of Ahimsā is the natural corollary of the Jaina view which regards universe as one integrated cosmic mechanism wherein the continuing consciousness of even a microscopic atom has a recognised role to play. Vegitarianism of Jainas is thus a rational recognition of the universal scheme of life and its development. Importance of Celibacy
It seems that it was Mabevíra who first developed the
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