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Ch. 8: Ahimsa and Social Justice
and exploitation are deeply rooted in our society. We cannot challenge the entire society. All we can we do is to follow personal non-violence!
Bhagwan was now forthright and direct. He said, “Non-violence is not for the cowards nor is it for those who want to remain passive in the face of violence and injustice. It is true
Non-violence is not that violence is deep-rooted in our society.
for cowards nor is it We have accepted poverty, discrimination,
for those who want
to remain passive in and animal sacrifice to be a part of life.
the face of violence However, remember that our mind and its and injustice. lack of empathy and sensitivity to violence, empowers this kind of hinisa (violence). This is bhava himsa. It can be stopped only by changing the bhava, or mental attitude of people. Eradicating discrimination, poverty, ignorance, and cruel practices requires shifting the mindsets of people. Ahinsa is a practical concept because it is the basic nature of our conscience. So, it is possible to turn around an entire society by appealing to people's conscience.
This task may be difficult, but as I said, it is not for cowards or for passive and inactive people. If you are a true Sraman, or sadhak, you must be bold and be active. I am telling this to everyone including those who are ordained in my sangh... There is no greater sadhana than to eliminate all kinds of hinusa from our self and our society. There is no better path to liberation than to awaken the innate compassion of your soul. No penance or prayer will liberate your soul without being in tune with its innate qualities. Work individually and collectively to serve others and to eliminate himsa. Serve those poor souls that are trapped in the ravages of himsa, and alleviate their pain." A very powerful message
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