Ahimsa Ki Sarva Bhaumikta

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Ahimsa ki Sarvabhaumikta" (The Universality of Ahimsa) by Prof. Sagarmal Jain, focusing on the essence of Ahimsa across various Indian religious traditions:

The text emphasizes that the concept of Ahimsa (non-violence) is not exclusive to Jainism but is a fundamental and universally recognized principle across various Indian religious and philosophical traditions. The author, Prof. Sagarmal Jain, traces the evolution and significance of Ahimsa from ancient Vedic texts to modern times, highlighting its central role in different spiritual paths.

Key Points:

• Vedic Origins: The concept of universal brotherhood and mutual protection is evident in the Rigveda ("Parispari rakshantam"). The Yajurveda further develops this by advocating for seeing all beings with a friendly eye ("Mitrasyachaham chakshusha sarvani bhutani samikshe"). This "friendship with all beings" (Sattveshu maitri) is presented as a strong proof of the non-violent sentiment in Vedic thought.
• Upanishadic Development: During the Upanishadic period, Ahimsa became integrated into the spiritual pursuit and the path to liberation (Moksha). The Chandogya Upanishad lists Ahimsa alongside austerity, charity, truthfulness, and uprightness as essential components of spiritual sacrifice ("tapo, danam, arjavam, ahimsa, satyavachanam"). It also states that one attains Brahmaloka (liberation) by not harming beings, except where permitted by religious injunctions ("Ahinsan sarvabhutanyanyatra tirthabhyaha"). This shows Ahimsa as a crucial element of the path to spiritual realization.
• Manusmriti and Smritis: Ancient texts like the Manusmriti further solidify the importance of Ahimsa. It is stated that non-violent conduct towards beings is the most commendable form of discipline ("Ahimsaiva bhutanam karya shreyo anushasanam"). Ahimsa is also presented as the means to achieve immortality or liberation ("Ahimsa chha bhutanam amrutatvaya kalptate"). The Manusmriti also lists Ahimsa as one of the common duties for all four varnas (social classes), alongside truthfulness, non-stealing, purity, and control of the senses.
• Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita: The epic Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita are replete with references to Ahimsa. The Mahabharata declares Ahimsa as the supreme dharma (duty) and violence as adharma (unrighteousness) ("Ahimsa sakalo dharmo himsadharmo tithahit"). It further states that there is no dharma greater than non-violence towards all beings ("Na bhutanam ahimsaya jayyan dharmo tithahit"). Ahimsa is repeatedly praised as the highest dharma, control, charity, austerity, sacrifice, fruit, friend, and happiness.
• Buddhism: Buddhism, as one of the Shramana traditions, places immense importance on Ahimsa. The Dhammapada highlights that one does not become "Aryan" (noble) by harming living beings, but rather by being non-violent towards all ("Nate narayo hotiyena pananani hinsati. Ahimsa savvapananana arioyiti pucyati"). Those who live a life of Ahimsa achieve the unwavering state of Nirvana ("Ahimsa ye munayo niccham kayena sanvruta... te yanti achyutam thanam yattha gamtva na socare"). The Buddha even defines a Brahmana as one who does not harm or kill any being, whether mobile or immobile.
• Jainism: Jainism is presented as the foremost proponent of Ahimsa, considering it the very essence of dharma. Texts like the Acharanga, Sutrakritanga, Uttaradhyayana, Dashavaikalika, and Mulachar contain thousands of references that support Jainism's Ahimsa-centric worldview. The Dashavaikalika states that Ahimsa, restraint, and austerity are the greatest auspicious things ("Dharmo mangalamukkitthe ahimsa sanjamo tapo"). The Sutrakritanga emphasizes that the essence of being knowledgeable is not to harm any living being, and that Ahimsa is dharma itself ("Evam khunanino saram jam na hinsati kanchana. Ahimsa samayam chev etavantam viyaniyia"). The text also quotes that all beings desire life and not death, which is why Jain monks (Nirgranthas) abstain from killing.
• Sikhism: Sikhism also upholds the principle of Ahimsa. Guru Nanak Devji's teachings question how one's consciousness can remain pure if touching blood stains clothes, implying a strong aversion to violence and consumption of meat.
• Other Religions: The text briefly touches upon Ahimsa in non-Indian religions like Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, suggesting that the echoes of Ahimsa are present in them as well, though the details are not elaborated.

In essence, the book argues for the universality of Ahimsa, demonstrating its deep roots and consistent presence across the major Indian religious traditions. It highlights that this principle of non-violence is not merely a religious doctrine but a fundamental aspect of human civilization and cultural development, aimed at fostering respect, coexistence, and spiritual liberation for all beings.