Ahimsa Is Not Religion It Is Way Of Life

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The book "Ahimsa is Not a Religion, It is a Way of Life" by Clare Rosenfield and Linda Segall, sponsored by Anchor Electricals, presents Jainism's core philosophy of Ahimsa (Non-Violence) not as a religious dogma, but as a practical and all-encompassing way of life. The work draws heavily on the teachings of Pujya Shree Chitrabhanuji, a contemporary Jain philosopher and spiritual leader.

Core Message and Philosophy:

• Ahimsa as a Way of Life: The central thesis is that Ahimsa is not merely a religious tenet but a profound principle that should guide all aspects of human existence. It's about Reverence for All Life, extending beyond human beings to encompass every living creature.
• Interconnectedness of Life: The universe is depicted as a "spendthrift universe of continuous giving," and humanity's role is to reciprocate with gratitude and responsibility. We are part of an interdependent family of life, and the suffering of any being affects us all.
• Self-Reverence as the Foundation: The practice of Ahimsa begins with cultivating deep respect for oneself – one's consciousness, body, mind, and emotions. This self-reverence leads to recognizing the preciousness of our own life force and the universal life force present in all beings.
• Consciousness and Evolution: Jainism posits that evolution is primarily of consciousness, an unfolding of divine potential through loving-kindness and awareness. This inner refinement influences our physical evolution.
• Minimizing Harm: The practical application of Ahimsa involves consciously minimizing the harm we cause to any living being. This requires vigilance, awareness of our motives, and fearlessness to live in harmony with nature's laws.

Key Jain Principles and Practices Explained:

• Mahavira's Teachings: The book highlights Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, as a pivotal figure who rediscovered and emphasized the immortal laws of life, placing Ahimsa foremost. His teachings, preserved in the Agamas, stress that without non-violence and reverence for all beings, other virtues and practices are meaningless.
• Samvara (Stoppage): This refers to the conscious decision to stop taking hurtful influences into our body or mind, stepping apart from destructive habits and re-evaluating one's life.
• Cause and Effect (Karma): The book explains the universal law of cause and effect, emphasizing that our thoughts, speech, and actions have direct consequences. Radiating loving-kindness returns to us, while negative emotions and actions harm ourselves first.
• Vegetarianism as a Natural Outcome: The vegetarian way of life is presented not as a strict rule but as a natural consequence of inner understanding and reverence for life. It's a choice made to minimize harm, particularly to animals with developed senses and emotional lives.
• Dietary Choices and Ethics: The text details the foods vegetarians eat, emphasizing the nutritional benefits of a plant-based diet and the importance of protein complementarity. It also delves into the ethical considerations of dairy and egg consumption, highlighting the potential for cruelty in their production and advocating for veganism as a more comprehensive approach for some.
• Health and Well-being: A plant-based diet is linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of chronic diseases. It also promotes mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being by avoiding the vibrations of fear and terror associated with animal slaughter.
• Interconnectedness with Humanity and Ecology: The book argues that vegetarianism is not just about animals but also about people and the planet. It promotes equitable food distribution, reduces environmental strain, and addresses issues like soil erosion and water pollution. The principle of Aparigraha (non-hoarding) encourages consideration for others' needs and responsible use of planetary resources.
• Peace and War: The authors draw a powerful parallel between animal exploitation and war, suggesting that the mentality that devalues animal life also contributes to the devaluation of human life. By embracing Ahimsa, we dismantle the roots of violence and cultivate a consciousness that fosters peace.

Pujya Shree Chitrabhanuji's Role:

The book prominently features the contributions of Pujya Shree Chitrabhanuji, who has dedicated his life to making Jain philosophy accessible globally. His work includes founding the Divine Knowledge Society, initiating social welfare projects, advocating for animal welfare, and inspiring individuals to live with compassion and a global purpose.

Overall Message:

"Ahimsa is Not a Religion, It is a Way of Life" calls for a fundamental shift in human consciousness, urging readers to embrace a life of compassion, interconnectedness, and reverence for all living beings. It offers a practical framework for achieving personal peace and contributing to world peace through conscious choices, particularly in diet and lifestyle. The book encourages readers to move beyond ignorance and callousness, to take responsibility for their actions, and to cultivate a deep appreciation for the sanctity of all life.