Samani Param Pragya
JVB London - Souvenir 2007
on
Ahimsa
Non-violence
Non-Violence - A Way To Peace & Harmony
The doctrine of non-violence was founded by oriental teachers several millennia ago. Almost all thinkers and the founders of religious orders universally accept it as a core principle of human conduct. Though truth seekers like Mahavir and Buddha, philosophers like Laotse and Confucius, stalwarts like Pythagoras were separated by geographical boundaries; their work however is eloquent of the fact that truth is eternal. In Jainism in particular, non-violence is considered as a supreme moral virtue (Ahimsa parmo dharmah).
The basis of violence is attachment to material things. The deeper the attachment is, the greater the violence. Training in non-violence through change of heart, behaviour and lifestyle generates inner calmness and at the same time brings about sparkle and energy.
The Bhagawad Gita aptly describes 'Nishkaam' (without desire) - if one does not desire the fruit of one's endeavours, both rivalry and crimes will disappear. The more unrestrained the desires, the greater the violence will be. The technique of shifting the awareness from the gonads to the vicinity of the pituitary and pineal glands will render both the individual and society, healthy.
The Jain Code of Conduct lays down certain parameters for a non-violent person:
- I will not kill any innocent creature intentionally nor will I commit suicide
- I will not subject any employee or worker to overwork nor will I overload animals and beasts
- I will not propagate misleading ideas or falsely implicate anyone
- I will not enrol as a member of an organization or a party that believes in violence and vandalism nor will I indulge in these activities
- I will not use products that are made from or tested on animals
- I will treat everyone as equals and practice tolerance towards all faiths
- I will practice physical, mental and intellectual non-violence
By following this code, one attains self-control, friendliness and compassion as well as freedom from greed. This is imperative for the salvation of every individual. It is a practical religion for peace and harmony in the society.