Ahimsa Varttman Sandarbha Me

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Ahimsa: Vartaman Sandarbh Mein" (Ahimsa: In the Present Context) by Madan Muni, based on the provided pages:

The essay, "Ahimsa: Vartaman Sandarbh Mein," by Madan Muni 'Pathik,' emphasizes the eternal and paramount importance of Ahimsa (non-violence) as the foundational pillar of Jainism. The author argues that Ahimsa is not merely a concept for a specific time but is synonymous with life itself, asserting that where there is violence, there is no life, and where there is life, Ahimsa is an absolute necessity.

Jainism's Ancient Roots and Ahimsa as its Core:

Muni Madan Muni posits that Jainism is an anadi (beginningless) religion, predating other major world religions like Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism. He even suggests that Jain philosophical ideas, originating with the first Tirthankara, Bhagwan Rishabhdev, form the root of much of the Vedic and Upanishadic literature, citing historical evidence and Western scholars. While other religions have come and gone, Jainism's continuous lineage, tracing back through Tirthankaras like Parshvanath and Arishtanemi to Rishabhdev, solidifies its claim to antiquity.

The central focus of the essay, however, is the profound significance of Ahimsa within Jain philosophy. The author highlights that Ahimsa is the very foundation upon which the entire edifice of Jainism is built, leading to eternal happiness and peace. He contrasts this with the violence often perpetrated in the name of religion in other contexts, which has caused immense suffering and harm to humanity.

Ahimsa's Relevance and Practicality in the Modern World:

Muni Madan Muni criticizes those who dismiss Jain Ahimsa as impractical or solely for individual practice, deeming it unsuitable for social and political issues. He asserts that these critics have not fully understood or studied the philosophy. He believes that if people truly grasped the essence of Ahimsa – abstaining from violence in thought, word, and deed – the world would not be in its current precarious state, teetering on the brink of destruction.

The author points to the successful application of Ahimsa in resolving collective issues within India, citing Mahatma Gandhi's victory against the British Empire as a powerful testament to its effectiveness. However, he laments that the world has largely forgotten the importance of Ahimsa since Gandhi's passing. He observes that selfish and short-sighted politicians are fostering violent environments instead of seeking peaceful solutions, thereby inviting chaos and annihilation. In this critical juncture, the author firmly believes that Jain Ahimsa is the only solution capable of saving humanity.

Defining and Practicing True Ahimsa:

The essay defines true Ahimsa not just as the absence of killing (anatipata) but as refraining from causing any kind of distress, even minor, through mind, speech, and body. It is about not causing any harm or suffering to any living being. The author emphasizes that Ahimsa is the most potent weapon against any adversary, leading to ultimate victory and self-conquest.

The text powerfully contrasts the consequences of violence and non-violence. Violence perpetuates the cycle of birth and death, leading to suffering in hellish realms, while Ahimsa guides one towards liberation. A poignant couplet illustrates this: "He who kills a being for a moment's satisfaction, experiencing pleasure through cutting and tearing, will suffer immensely in hell." The author reiterates that the pursuit of fleeting pleasure through violence inevitably leads to long-term suffering and self-destruction.

The Call to Embrace Ahimsa for Personal and Universal Welfare:

Muni Madan Muni urges readers to reflect on their duty and the path to their own well-being. He concludes that Ahimsa is the true highway to self-realization and the salvation of all humanity. He invokes the concept of "Jivdaya" (compassion for living beings) as the embodiment of Ahimsa, which is akin to a ship for crossing the ocean of worldly existence, a wish-fulfilling tree for great welfare, and the source of heavenly and liberated bliss.

He stresses the importance of extending compassion to all beings, wishing no harm even in thought, hurting no one with words, and causing no suffering to any creature with actions. Embracing Ahimsa is presented as essential for achieving liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

Ahimsa and Vegetarianism:

The essay addresses the misguided notion that consuming meat strengthens the body, calling it a grave error and a great sin. The author advocates for the practice of distinguishing between edible and non-edible substances. He notes that even in Europe and America, thoughtful individuals are increasingly recognizing the necessity of vegetarianism and embracing Ahimsa. He argues that meat-eating is unnatural for humans, who are inherently compassionate beings with the power of reason. Witnessing the suffering of animals during slaughter should touch even the hardest hearts.

Universal Support for Ahimsa:

The essay further strengthens its argument by citing pronouncements from various religious traditions supporting Ahimsa:

• Islam: Allah dislikes blood and flesh.
• Bible: Remain pure by not eating meat.
• Mahatma Buddha: Consuming meat, fish, and alcohol destroys religious merit and spiritual practices.
• Kabir: Questions the fate of those who eat goats, implying they will face consequences.
• Mahatma Gandhi: Would prefer death over eating meat.
• Nanak: His teachings subtly discourage harmful actions.

An Illustrative Story of Ahimsa's Power:

To exemplify the power of Ahimsa, the essay narrates the story of a woman who, with unwavering faith in non-violence, saved a venomous snake from being killed by villagers. She calmly coaxed the snake onto her stick and transported it to the forest. The snake, despite opportunities to escape, returned to her stick twice, demonstrating an acknowledgment of her compassionate intent. This story highlights the profound impact of an अहिंसक (ahimsak - non-violent) person's steadfast faith and loving nature, even on a wild creature.

Concluding Appeal:

In conclusion, the essay paints a grim picture of the present era, characterized by the decline of religion, rampant selfishness, inter-nation conflict, and the development of devastating weapons. In such a dire situation, Jain Ahimsa is presented as the sole hope for world salvation. The author implores global powers to recognize this truth in time. The essay ends with powerful verses from the Acharanga Sutra, emphasizing that all living beings cherish life, desire happiness, and detest suffering, and that no violence should be inflicted upon any creature. It further asserts that while weapons of violence are many, the weapon of Ahimsa (being unarmed) is superior, and its practice is the highest form of spiritual discipline.