Jainism And Global Peace

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Jainism and Global Peace" by Dr. Dhaval Nemchand Ghalla:

The text "Jainism and Global Peace" by Dr. Dhaval Nemchand Ghalla addresses the multifaceted anxieties and challenges faced by modern humanity, arguing that Jain principles offer a robust framework for achieving individual fulfillment and global harmony.

Modern Man's Predicament: The author begins by outlining the characteristics of the modern age, marked by a focus on enlightenment, reason, and progress, but also by pervasive anxiety. While humanity has overcome many physical ailments, it now grapples with subtler psychological issues like worry, value conflicts, loneliness, and disillusionment. Modern science has advanced significantly, allowing for space exploration, yet the understanding of human psychology and the values necessary for a meaningful life lag behind. This has led to a spiritual and moral void, with individuals seeking answers amidst a plethora of conflicting philosophies and social programs.

The Jain Path for Householders (Grihastha): For the majority of people who are householders (Grihastha), Jainism outlines the pursuit of the four Purusharthas: Dharma (spiritual excellence), Artha (wealth acquisition), Kama (fulfillment of worldly desires), and Moksha (liberation). These three, Dharma, Artha, and Kama, are presented as interconnected and integral, and their pursuit must be balanced to avoid negatively impacting the ultimate goal of Moksha.

Vrata (Vows) as Individual Transformation: Recognizing that individuals are architects of their own destiny, the author emphasizes the importance of Vrata (vows) for householders. These vows are seen as tools for personal transformation, enabling individuals to create their own "heaven" through their mindset and actions.

The Ethical Code of Jainism: The text highlights two key contributions of Jainism to human intellect and conduct:

• The Five Anuvratas (Minor Vows): These are the foundational ethical principles for individuals, particularly householders:

  1. Ahimsa (Non-violence): The paramount principle, advocating for non-harming in thought, word, and deed.
  2. Satya (Truthfulness): Speaking the truth.
  3. Asteya (Honesty): Not stealing or coveting what belongs to others.
  4. Brahmacharya (Continence): Restraint in sensual pleasures.
  5. Aparigraha (Non-possession/Stoicism): Detachment from material possessions and desires.

• Syadvada and Anekanta (Logic of Probability and Relativism): This doctrine emphasizes that truth is multifaceted and can be viewed from multiple perspectives. It promotes understanding and tolerance by acknowledging that different viewpoints are valid and that no single perspective holds the absolute truth. This is presented as a powerful tool for resolving differences and fostering global peace.

Broader Principles for a Better Life: Beyond the Anuvratas, the text enumerates further ethical guidelines that contribute to personal growth and societal harmony. These include:

• Discarding pride.
• Avoiding places of calamity or seeking refuge in worthy individuals.
• Respecting noble individuals.
• Living in suitable environments.
• Dressing and decorating according to one's means and avoiding ostentation.
• Spending within one's income.
• Abstaining from condemnable actions.
• Associating with noble people.
• Honoring parents.
• Avoiding actions that provoke others.
• Protecting dependents.
• Eating in moderation and choosing food that suits one's constitution.
• Renouncing temptations of taste.
• Discarding activities in inappropriate settings or times.
• Living humbly and in accordance with the standards of others.
• Avoiding excessive familiarity.
• Serving those who have undertaken vows and possess wisdom and virtuous character.
• Acting within one's abilities and limitations.
• Ensuring desires are appropriate to the time.
• Listening to scriptural discourses daily.
• Discarding prejudice and evil intentions, treating all people with impartiality.
• Cultivating partiality for all virtues.
• Avoiding undesirable habits like meat-eating and alcohol consumption.

Ahimsa and Anekanta as Pillars of Peace: The author highlights Lord Mahavir as the "greatest apostle of Ahimsa," whose philosophy of non-violence as the highest religion and the concept of "live and let live" form the golden rule of human conduct. Ahimsa, by preventing inner mental violence, naturally leads to the absence of physical violence. It is rooted in universal love and a pure heart.

Anekanta, described as a "strong weapon," can dismantle deep-seated differences and pave the way for global peace by replacing animosity with understanding. The practical application of Ahimsa in India's struggle for independence is cited as evidence of its profound impact.

Mahatma Gandhi's Endorsement: The text quotes Mahatma Gandhi, who stated that non-violence is not a virtue confined to ascetics but the "law of human existence." Gandhi believed that by incorporating moral values like non-violence, truth, honesty, charity, tolerance, and forbearance into ethics, economics, politics, and international relations, this rule could be extended to all spheres of life, leading to global peace and happiness.

Conclusion: Ultimately, the text posits that the individual, through personal transformation guided by Jain principles like Ahimsa and Anekanta, is the catalyst for a better world. By purifying hearts and minds and adhering to ethical conduct, individuals can create harmony and prosperity, making the entire world a more peaceful place.