Universal Message of Lord Mahavira

Author(s): Dulichand Jain
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith

Page 38

28
Universal Message of Lord Mahāvīra
make a laity spiritually conscious and make his life peaceful and harmonious.
Practice for higher advancement
Those who want to rise higher in spiritual life, must follow five Aņuvratas (primary vows) prescribed for a householder which consists of partial observance of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, chastity (to refrain from all illicit sexual relationships) and non-possession. A householder should devote part of his time in Dāna (charity), śīla (virtuous life), Tapas (austerity) and Bhāvanā (purification of thoughts).
Non-violence
Non-violence is the sense of equality of all living creatures. If you feel that every soul is independent and autonomous, you will never trample on its right to live. This leads you to compassion and kindness towards all living beings and results in harmony and peace in the world. The principle of non-violence in Jainism embraces not only human beings but also animals, birds, plants, vegetables and creatures of earth, air and water. It is the holy law of compassion extended to body, mind and speech of a living being. Lord Mahāvīra says, “All living beings desire to live. They detest sorrow and death and desire a long and happy life. Hence, one should not inflict pain on any creature, nor have any feeling of antipathy or enmity. One should be friendly towards all creatures.""
The other vows
All the other vows preached in Jainism are only an extension of the vow of non-violence. Truthfulness is essential to keep order and harmony in society. There are moments in life