Ahimsani Yatra

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Ahimsani Yatra" by Kumarpal Desai, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Ahimsani Yatra (The Journey of Non-Violence) Author: Kumarpal Desai Publisher: Shri Jaibhikkhu Sahitya Trust Theme: Tracing the evolution and significance of Ahimsa (non-violence) from Lord Mahavir to Mahatma Gandhi, and its relevance in the contemporary world.

Core Message: The book emphasizes that Ahimsa is not merely a passive concept but an active principle of compassion, respect, and co-existence, essential for individual well-being, societal harmony, and global peace.

Summary of Key Sections and Themes:

• The Crisis of Violence in the Modern World: The book begins by highlighting the pervasive nature of violence in the modern world, from global terrorism and inter-state conflicts to societal unrest and individual acts of aggression. It posits that humanity is at a crossroads, with its very existence threatened by the escalation of violence.
• The Origin and Essence of Ahimsa in Jainism:
  • Lord Mahavir's Teachings: The narrative traces the journey of Ahimsa back to Lord Mahavir, who advocated it as the supreme dharma. His teachings emphasized extending compassion not just to humans but to all living beings – animals, birds, and even the subtle elements of nature (earth, water, fire, air, plants).
  • Equality of All Souls: Lord Mahavir taught the concept of atmopamya (treating all souls as one's own), stressing that one should not inflict harm on any creature, as the soul can transmigrate through various life forms. This philosophy underscores the inherent interconnectedness of all existence.
  • Ahimsa as an Internal State: The book explains that Ahimsa is not just an outward action but an inner disposition. Violence begins as a thought, which then manifests in speech and action. Therefore, controlling one's thoughts is crucial for practicing Ahimsa.
  • Ahimsa and Other Vows: Ahimsa is presented as the foundational principle from which other Jain vows like truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-possession (aparigraha) stem. Aparigraha is particularly linked to Ahimsa, as excessive possession can lead to greed and cruelty.
  • Mahavir's Personal Practice: The text illustrates Lord Mahavir's commitment to Ahimsa through his personal life, enduring hardships and persecutions with equanimity and compassion, even towards those who inflicted suffering on him. His ultimate goal was the welfare of all beings.
• The Historical Continuity of Ahimsa in India:
  • Ancient Tirthankaras: The tradition of Ahimsa is shown to have begun with the first Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhadeva, and continued through Lord Arishtanemi (who renounced his marriage due to the impending slaughter of animals) and Lord Parshvanath.
  • Royal Adherence: The book highlights instances of rulers like Emperor Shrenik who enforced non-killing, Queen Mrigavati who intervened to stop wars, and King Nami who was influenced by Madanrekha to prevent a massacre.
  • Emperor Ashok's Influence: Emperor Ashok's conversion to Ahimsa after the Kalinga war led to policies promoting the welfare of humans and animals, establishing hospitals, planting trees, and digging wells. His edicts demonstrated a deep commitment to non-violence and tolerance.
  • King Kumarpal and Acharya Hemchandracharya: The influence of Acharya Hemchandracharya on King Kumarpal is presented as a significant period, leading to the "Amarighoshana" (Proclamation of Non-Killing), the first such declaration in the world. This era saw the closure of slaughterhouses and the establishment of a culture of compassion.
  • Seth Jagadusha's Compassion: The story of Seth Jagadusha exemplifies Ahimsa through humanitarian acts during severe famines, distributing food and resources to millions, earning him the title "Protector of the World."
  • Mogul Emperor Akbar: The book details Emperor Akbar's exposure to Jain principles through Acharya Hiravijayasuriji, leading to his decrees prohibiting animal sacrifice and mandating days of non-killing, showcasing a transformative impact of Jain Ahimsa.
• Mahatma Gandhi and the Modern Revival of Ahimsa:
  • Inspiration from Shrimad Rajchandra: Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of Ahimsa is deeply rooted in his spiritual guidance from Shrimad Rajchandraji. Their profound connection helped Gandhi clarify his understanding of Hinduism and forge his path of truth and non-violence.
  • Ahimsa as a Force: Gandhi elevated Ahimsa from a personal virtue to a potent force for social and political change. He demonstrated that Ahimsa is an active principle requiring courage, resilience, and a deep commitment to justice.
  • Ahimsa in Action: Gandhi's non-violent resistance (Satyagraha) against injustice in South Africa and India, his emphasis on truth, his critique of industrial violence and pollution, and his call for simple living and self-reliance are presented as practical applications of Ahimsa.
  • Ahimsa as Self-Sufficiency and Inner Strength: Gandhi viewed Ahimsa as inner strength, a capacity to endure suffering without retaliating, and a means to win over the opponent's heart. He contrasted the 'law of the jungle' (violence) with the 'law of suffering' (non-violence), highlighting the greater power of the latter.
  • Ahimsa in Politics and Society: Gandhi advocated for an Ahimsa-based political system that prioritized the well-being of all nations and individuals, condemning exploitation and dominance as forms of violence. He also stressed the importance of Ahimsa in personal, familial, and social life, emphasizing restraint, compassion, and the spiritual understanding of shared humanity.
• Global Impact and Future Relevance:
  • Influence on Global Leaders: The book points to the influence of Gandhi's Ahimsa philosophy on leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Aung San Suu Kyi, demonstrating its universal appeal and effectiveness in struggles for justice and democracy.
  • Ahimsa: A Universal Principle: Ahimsa is presented as a universal principle, transcending East and West, and offering the path to human progress and spiritual elevation.
  • A Call to Action: The book concludes with a strong call to embrace Ahimsa in the 21st century to combat terrorism, violence, and war, and to preserve human dignity and the survival of the species. It urges a shift from negative restraint to positive love and a realization of the interconnectedness of all beings.

In essence, "Ahimsani Yatra" provides a historical and philosophical exploration of Ahimsa, showcasing its profound impact from ancient Jain teachings to modern liberation movements, and advocating for its adoption as a guiding principle for a peaceful and compassionate world.