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rigidities, caste-ridden prejudices and hypocritical assertions of egoistic superiority over other religions and even sects within the same religion have found their way in the mindset of priests as well as the common folk. A poet has put it aptly: So many sects, so many creeds So many paths that wind and wind While just the art of being ethical and kind Is all the world needs Albert Schweitzer, who was a life-long practitioner of compassion in action has observed that : “Any religion which is not based on respect for life is not true religion. Until he extends his circle of compassion to all living beings, Man will not himself find peace.” Mahatma Gandhi, the 20th century apostle of non-violence was fond of reciting the following prayer, which brings out what religion should imply in the conduct of day-to-day life in the spirit of 'Live and let live': Not for any kingdom do I long Not even for the kingdom of heaven Not even for the freedom From the endless cycle of birth and death For one and only one thing do I long To free living beings from their agony and pain To wipe away their tears
A Portrait of Jain Religion
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