An Ahimsa Crisis: You Decide: What Is Achorya/Asteya?

Literally ACHORYA means Non-Stealing.

Most common and prevalent understanding such as: thievery, robbery, house break-in, burglary, snatching, acquiring what one desires by illegal, irrational and illegitimate ways and means and misappropriation of funds etc. are commonly understood as stealing.

Achorya is all of that plus a lot more.

Jain Acharya Umasvati defines Achorya as: “taking anything which is not willingly given”.

Not taking any item or services that do not belong to me.

Not taking without the full knowledge and willing consent of the giver and without any threat and duress.

Should be in full compliance of the law of the society.

Should respect the moral and karmic laws as much as possible.

The dealings should be open, fair, honest, transparent, and not be hiding any facts.

Both the receiver and giver should be able to disclose its full contents to all and to those who have a need to know. (This is the Most Important Test)

It is an ethical contract of human behavior for dealings, trade, commerce and business in the society.