Book Title: Sramana 2004 01
Author(s): Shivprasad
Publisher: Parshvanath Vidhyashram Varanasi

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Page 170
________________ Social Aspect of Non-Violence : 164 The karma theory of social organization has been analysed and supported strongly by contemporary Indian social philosophers like Mahtma Gandhi. Dr. Bhagawan Das, Acārya Narendradeva etc. \ Mahātmā Gandhi in his social philosophy has discussed social class-division under following headings Varna - The word 'Varṇa' means to select (Varana). A man is free to select his business though he is bound to be born in some caste and creed. So he should be treated according to his activity or business. If a man taking birth in Brāhmaṇa varṇa does not practise the conduct prescribed for him, he should never be honoured as a Brāhmaṇa. On the other hand if a man of Śudra varna possesses moral conduct, he should never be disrespected on the cause of his birth. It is only theory of kama which can bring equality, in the society and equality represents nonviolence. Four Varnas in one family As Mahatma Gandhi has asserted four varṇas Brāhmaṇa, Kṣattriya, Vaisya and Śūdra may be seen in one family. In the same family there is found a teacher who teaches in some school or college, like a Brāhmaṇa whose main duty is to teach. The second man of the same family who is strong and stout protects his family from different calamities coming to it, like a Kṣattriya. The third man of the family is found doing agriculture and business as Vaisyas do. The fourth man sweeps dirt and dust for keeping the residence neat and clean, which has been prescribed as the duty of a Śūdra. So in the same family Brahman Kṣattriya, Vaisya and Śūdra live lovingly and harmoniously, without any difference and division. They sit together, have their meals together without any hesitation. So in the society also all should live friendly and freely. Four Varnas in one man Mahātmā Gandhi has shown that four varṇas may be seen in one man. All persons have heads which symboise Brāhmaṇa because teaching is one of the duties of Brahmana which is done through head. All men have arms which protect themselves from attacks done by other persons. To provide protection to society is the duty of Kṣattriya. All persons eat corn, fruit, vegetables etc. which are produced through Jain Education International For Private & Personal Use Only www.jainelibrary.org

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