Shantidoot Amrender Muniji

Author(s): Padmini Atal
Publisher: Universal Ahimsa Foundation

Page 56

Interview with Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma: Former President of India
When Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma met Acharya Shri Amrender Muni Ji he put a question to him: Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma: Respected Sir, please tell me what is the use of the principle of anekant (multiplicity of view points) as outlined by Lord Mahavir. Acharya Shri Amrender Muni Ji: Anekant is a revolutionary principle given to us by Lord Mahavir. To see the essence of something from different angles or viewpoints is the meaning of “anekant". For everything there are different viewpoints. A substance is known by many different characteristics. The living thing (jiva) is permanent from one angle and impermanent from another, depending on how you look at it. Just like in a 3 storey building the person on the first floor will say that the person on the second floor is higher than me and the person on the top floor will say that the person on the middle floor is lower than me. The middle person remains at the same level but is viewed differently by both. In their own way both are correct, even though they are saying the opposite thing.
Similarly in many disputes today the same thing happens - both sides are correct when you look the problem from their viewpoint.
By accepting the principle of “anekant” ie by accepting that there can be multiple correct though opposing views, we can put an end to conflict. Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma: Respected sir, can you tell me if only the caste of people known as Oswals and Aggarwals can be Jainis or is there a place in Jain dharma for others as well? Acharya Shri Amrender Muni Ji: There is no place for sectarianism
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shantidoot | messenger of peace