Jain Dharm Aur Islam Me Ahimsa Tulnatmaka Drushti

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Jain Dharm aur Islam me Ahimsa Tulnatmaka Drushti" by Nizamuddin:

The book "Jainism and Islam: A Comparative Perspective on Ahimsa" by Dr. Nizamuddin explores the concept of Ahimsa (non-violence) in both Jainism and Islam, highlighting their similarities and differences.

Ahimsa in Jainism:

• Core Principle: Ahimsa is the foremost principle, taught by Lord Mahavira. It is described as compassion towards all beings, recognizing that all living things desire to live and not to die. True Ahimsa is not just abstaining from harming, but actively loving all creatures.
• Manifestations: Ahimsa is expressed through thoughts, words, and actions, and also by not instigating or approving of violence. It encompasses abstaining from causing pain to both mobile (tras) and immobile (sthavar) beings.
• Foundation in Intention: Jainism emphasizes that Ahimsa is primarily rooted in one's mental state and intentions. If one harbors ill will or the desire to harm, it is considered Himsa (violence). Self-control and a lack of harmful intent prevent one from being the cause of suffering.
• Types of Himsa: The text outlines four types of Himsa:
  1. Sankalpi Himsa: Deliberate killing of an innocent being.
  2. Udyogi Himsa: Violence incurred during livelihood activities like farming, business, or military service.
  3. Arambhi Himsa: Accidental violence that occurs while undertaking necessary daily activities like eating, despite precautions.
  4. Virodhi Himsa: Violence committed in self-defense or to protect others.
• Acceptable Violence: While striving for complete non-violence, Jainism acknowledges that accidental harm during unavoidable activities (like walking or farming) doesn't incur sin if done with utmost care. Moreover, violence for self-defense, national defense, or the protection of humanity is considered justifiable and not classified as Himsa. The killing of an enemy in battle is not considered Himsa if done with proper intent.
• Emphasis on Renunciation: Jainism distinguishes between the practice of Ahimsa by monks (Mahavratas - great vows) and householders (Anuvratas - lesser vows), recognizing that complete adherence is challenging for the latter.
• Dietary Restrictions: Jainism strictly prohibits meat, honey, alcohol, fish, and eggs, with some sects also forbidding consumption after sunset.

Ahimsa in Islam:

• Foundation of Peace: Islam, derived from the word "Salam" meaning peace and submission, inherently promotes peace and well-being.
• Importance of Intention: Similar to Jainism, intention (niyyat) plays a crucial role in Islam. Good intentions are vital, and wrongdoing is often not considered sinful until an act is committed.
• Divine Commands: Allah commands justice and doing good. Caution and prudence (taqwa) are highly valued.
• Moral Conduct: The Quran emphasizes that the best person is one who is righteous and abstains from wrongdoing. The purpose of religious practices like Salat (prayer) and Roza (fasting) is to purify the individual and improve their character, promoting self-control and abstinence from vice.
• Self-Control and Divine Attributes: Islam places great importance on controlling one's desires and senses. Allah is described as Rahman (merciful) and Raheem (compassionate), but also as Kahar (punishing the unjust). Suppressing anger and exercising self-control are essential for spiritual attainment.
• No Compulsion in Religion: Islam explicitly forbids coercion in matters of faith, stating that causing unrest or mischief is worse than killing. The Quran emphasizes that saving a life is akin to saving all of humanity.
• Protection of Beings: The Quran and Hadith repeatedly command compassion towards animals and birds. The Prophet Muhammad's teachings highlight the importance of treating animals well and the consequence of cruelty (like a woman being denied paradise for starving a cat).
• Ethical Treatment of Laborers and Slaves: Islam mandates timely payment of wages and humane treatment of laborers. The Prophet Muhammad abolished slavery due to the prevalent mistreatment of slaves.
• Economic Justice: Islam condemns unfair practices like short-measuring, usurping rights, and adulteration of goods, considering them forms of violence and economic exploitation.
• Rules of Warfare: Military campaigns are subject to strict ethical guidelines, prohibiting the killing of the elderly, children, and women, and forbidding the destruction of fertile land.
• Environmental Consciousness: Tree planting is considered a charitable act, recognizing its role in providing shade, shelter, and air purification.
• Prohibition of Self-Harm: Suicide is forbidden in Islam, with the Quran stating, "Do not kill yourselves."
• Protection of Non-Muslims: The text mentions the obligation to protect "Zimmis" (non-Muslims living under Islamic rule) and to fight against anyone who attacks them.
• Promoting Brotherhood: Islam encourages avoiding jealousy, malice, and backbiting, and promotes reconciliation between people, emphasizing that believers are brothers.
• Dietary Practices: Islam permits the consumption of meat and night meals, but the slaughter of animals is only permissible in the name of Allah (Halal). Killing animals without invoking Allah's name is considered impure (Haram). The text cites Quranic verses that define Halal and Haram foods.
• Justifiable Retaliation: While Islam advocates for forgiveness over retaliation, it permits retaliation in kind if one is wronged, with forgiveness being considered superior. However, this is nuanced, as tolerating injustice can encourage further oppression.
• Concept of "Admi Tashaddud": In Urdu, "Admi Tashaddud" (human violence) is often used synonymously with non-violence, but the broader concept of Ahimsa is considered more comprehensive.

Shared Values and Conclusion:

Despite differences in specific practices, both Jainism and Islam share significant similarities in their emphasis on tolerance, mercy, compassion, self-control, and abstaining from harm. The author concludes that Ahimsa is crucial in the modern era to overcome violence, fear, and hatred. Both religions teach the importance of living a life of compassion and trust. The text ends with a poignant quote about fearing man more than God, highlighting the pervasive human-induced suffering in the world.