Universal Message of Lord Mahavira

Author(s): Dulichand Jain
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith

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Universal Message of Lord Mahāvīra
The question, therefore, arises whether religion can meet the need of our times and solve the problems of present day humanity. Jaina thinkers have stated clearly that religion does not mean mere rituals and dogmas. It has eternal values, which have validity for all times to come. Jainism is a living religion propounded by Lord Mahāvīra in the present era and it is practised by lacs of people even today.
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The Essence of Religion
First of all, let us understand what is the meaning of religion. According to Jainism, the real nature of any substance is religion - dhammo vatthusahāvo.' If it is so, the question arises what is the real nature of a human being? Lord Mahāvīra says, "The real nature of every soul is equanimity." It is said in Mūlācāra that the oneness of the soul with right faith, right knowledge, self-restraint and austerity is Samaya. Know this as Sāmāyika (equanimity).2 In Jainism, religion is not different from the practice for the realisation of our own essential nature of svasvabhāva. In this state, the consciousness is completely free from constant flickering, excitements, disharmony and disorders. In reality, the soul is different from the body and it should remain away from vibhāvas or impure state of mind. The object of religion is to achieve equanimity of mind and get real peace and blissfulness.
Integral view of life
Jainism takes an integral view of life. Either faith or knowledge by itself cannot take us to the path of salvation. We should have a combination of right faith, right knowledge and right conduct to tread the path of salvation.3 These three, Samyagdarśana (right faith), Samyagjñāna (right knowledge) and