Pristine Jainism

Author(s): S M Jain
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith

Page 78

Code of Conduct : (75) smell by searching nutrients, feeling agony and pleasure in response to feelings of others including humans. The fact is that in biological evolutionary process there is more and more division of labour in different organs with evolution of more and more complex life-forms. Even unicellular life forms perform many complex functions with its rudimentary sense capabilities viz. bacteria etc. Even most evolved complex humans can not perform several functions which bacteria, virus can do. Therefore, it is wrong to assume that one-sense life-forms viz. minerals, plants and others feel less pain from violence against them. Latest genetic research has estimated that human beings have approximately 30000 genes whereas microscopic round worm has 19000 genes and the mustard cress plant has 25000 genes. The difference is insignificant looking to complex functions in humans. The injunctions that unripe fruits and attached to plant body (Sacitta) should not be consumed recognises this aspect though it is generally not followed. The plants deserve maximum concern and attention as plants are the only primary producers of food etc and all others including humans are consumers and dependent on products of plants. This erroneous concept is concept product of change from forest (Kalpavřkșa) based model to agriculture based model. As discussed in detail in earlier chapter, perfect symbiosis without any harm to any life form is possible only in forest (Kalpavşkșa) based model and it is possible to revive it. The lofty symbiotic principles of Jainism can be practised in letter and spirit only in congenial ambient environment of forest based model of society. The discrepancies, aberrations, relaxations were introduced by learned saints though with stringent riders only to cope with the evolving, retrogratory situations. However, the aberrations are aberrations and should not be mistaken with fundamental timeless principles. There are meticulous detailed rules for observance of vow of non-violence leaving no lacunae or pretext. Transgressions like overloading, nailing, making holes in parts of animals, under feeding, tying them painfully etc are not permitted. There are examples and factual anecdotes that saints practising perfect