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The values of vows and self-restraint are the main contributions of Mahavira. Observance of vows gives the ability to direct the mind towards the wholesome mode. Resolve is a process of training the mind to develop trust and faith in one and provide a direction for the whole life. Resolve is a tool to focus the energy, the life force, so that it becomes like a indomitable strength. Resolve grows very well and its effect is to awaken the willpower within, by uniting the conscious awareness with the unconscious forces, lying dormant. The purpose of resolve is to influence and transform the whole life pattern, not only the body, but also the mind, the emotions, and the spiritual forces.
1. Vow of Non-Violence: Mahavira said, “Nonvoilence is the principal vow. All other vows are its subsidiary. Only a non-violent person is fear free.”
The practice of non-violence is the essential cause of freedom from fear. Violence induces fear. The person who lives on violence experiences fear. One saves oneself by making others fearful. All forms of life are interrelated, interdependent. Man is not separate. We are living in a totally interactive world and everything here is interactive. The same is also applicable for life or consciousness. Life certainly cannot exist in isolation. If all living species, except one in the universe or even on earth vanish, the last one also will not be able to survive. Therefore life is a result of interdependence with other living species. And to destroy other living beings is not only ugly, anaesthetic, inhuman, unscientific – it is like committing a small suicide. One who does not value life does not deserve it.
Mahavira said, "One who is fearless does not make others fearful. All living beings desire to live.
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