Ahimsa Mimansa

The book "Ahimsa Mimansa" (અહિંસામીમાંસા) by Dr. Kanubhai Sheth and Gunvant Barvalia, published by S.K.P.G. Jain Philosophical and Literary Research Centre, is a comprehensive exploration of the Jain concept of Ahimsa (non-violence).

Here's a summary of the key themes and ideas presented in the book, based on the provided text:

Core Message: Ahimsa as the Supreme Dharma

• The book strongly emphasizes that Ahimsa is not just a principle but the paramount and all-encompassing dharma, into which all other religions and principles merge, much like rivers flowing into the ocean.
• It draws a parallel between weapons of war and Ahimsa, stating that while weapons can be advanced, they cannot compare to the superiority of Ahimsa. This highlights Ahimsa as the ultimate path.

Ahimsa in Jainism and Beyond:

• Universality: Ahimsa is presented as a fundamental and natural human dharma, recognized by all religions and their founders. It is considered a common thread that binds humanity.
• Psychological Basis: Jainism establishes Ahimsa on a psychological foundation, viewing it as the essence of righteous conduct and an eternal truth. The inherent desire for life (jijivisha) and the preference for happiness over suffering in all living beings are cited as the basis for Ahimsa.
• "You are That": A profound quote from Lord Mahavir states that whatever you wish to harm, kill, or oppress, that essence is within you. This emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the self as the true object of harm.
• Internal vs. External Conflict: The book distinguishes between external violence (wars, physical conflicts) and internal violence (struggle against inner enemies like anger, greed, ego). Lord Mahavir's teaching is to conquer these inner enemies, as they are more destructive to the soul than external ones.
• Ninefold Ahimsa (Navakoti Ahimsa): Jainism advocates for Ahimsa in thought, word, and deed. This extends to not committing, causing, or condoning violence. The text notes that Jainism's understanding of Ahimsa is particularly deep and comprehensive, considering subtle aspects like not creating opportunities for others to harm and not participating in their violence.
• Comparison with Other Religions: The book briefly touches upon Ahimsa in other religions like Judaism, Islam, Christianity, and Vedic traditions, highlighting their varying scopes and interpretations while ultimately positioning Jainism's concept as the most all-encompassing.
• Vedic Traditions: While acknowledging the concept of mutual protection and friendliness in the Vedas, the text points out the acceptance of animal sacrifice and violence in the name of rituals within Vedic traditions, suggesting a less absolute approach to Ahimsa compared to Jainism.
• Modern Philosophy: The principle of "Reverence to Life" by Albert Schweitzer is mentioned as a concept that aligns with the broader idea of Ahimsa.

The Depth and Nuances of Ahimsa:

• Distinguishing Violence: The book details four types of violence recognized in Jainism:
  1. Sankalpi Hinsa (Intentional Violence): Deliberate acts of violence stemming from determination, aggression, hatred, jealousy, and the desire to cause suffering. This is considered avoidable and the most egregious form.
  2. Arambhi Hinsa (Occupational Violence): Violence necessary for livelihood, sustenance, and everyday activities like farming, trade, and household chores. While unavoidable to an extent, the emphasis is on minimizing it through caution and ethical conduct.
  3. Udyogi Hinsa (Professional Violence): Violence associated with livelihoods and professions, similar to Arambhi Hinsa, but emphasizing the necessity of karma and action in life.
  4. Virodhi Hinsa (Defensive Violence): Violence undertaken for self-defense, protection of family, country, or to resist injustice. This is considered an inevitable aspect of existence, especially when non-violent means fail. However, the spirit behind it should be defense, not malice.
• Mental vs. Physical Violence: The text strongly asserts that mental violence (thoughts, intentions, emotional harm) is more potent and damaging than physical violence.
• The Role of Intention and Karma: The book delves into the concept that intention (bhava) is crucial in determining the nature of an action. Violence stemming from negative emotions like anger, greed, pride, and deceit is considered more detrimental. The principle of Ahimsa is deeply intertwined with the purity of one's intentions.
• The Importance of Viveka (Discernment): Throughout the text, viveka (discernment and wisdom) is highlighted as the key to navigating the complexities of violence and non-violence. It is viveka that allows one to differentiate between true Ahimsa and mere inaction.
• Ahimsa as a Force for Good: The book counters the notion that Ahimsa is for the weak. It argues that true Ahimsa requires immense strength, self-control, and courage, as exemplified by figures like Lord Mahavir and Mahatma Gandhi. It is a path of active resistance through love, truth, and non-cooperation rather than passive acceptance.
• Ahimsa and the Soul: The ultimate goal of Ahimsa is the purification and liberation of the soul. By eradicating violence in all its forms, one can achieve spiritual progress and ultimately moksha (liberation).

Ahimsa in Social Context:

• Societal Harmony: Ahimsa is presented as the foundation of a harmonious society. The book argues that a society built on empathy, love, and cooperation, devoid of hatred and violence, is sustainable and peaceful.
• The Challenge of Modern Society: The text acknowledges the challenges of implementing absolute Ahimsa in modern society, especially when it comes to essential needs and self-defense. However, it stresses the continuous striving towards minimizing violence and cultivating non-violent attitudes.
• Vegetarianism and Ahimsa: The book strongly advocates for vegetarianism, presenting it as a natural, ethical, and health-conscious choice that aligns with the principles of Ahimsa and environmental balance.

Ahimsa as a Divine Aspect:

• Bhagavati Ahimsa: Ahimsa is revered as "Bhagavati" (the Divine Mother), signifying its supreme importance and its capacity to bestow spiritual power and liberation.
• Inner Transformation: The ultimate attainment of Ahimsa lies in inner transformation, by conquering inner enemies and cultivating virtues like compassion, empathy, and equanimity.

The Book's Structure and Purpose:

• The book is structured to provide a deep and multifaceted understanding of Ahimsa, drawing from Jain scriptures like the Acharanga Sutra and the Prashna Vyakarana Sutra.
• It aims to inspire readers to embrace Ahimsa not just as a religious tenet but as a way of life, contributing to individual spiritual growth and global peace.

In essence, "Ahimsa Mimansa" is a profound treatise that dissects the concept of Ahimsa from philosophical, psychological, ethical, and practical perspectives, establishing it as the cornerstone of Jainism and a vital principle for the well-being of all existence.