Journey Of Ahimsa - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of "A Journey of Ahimsa" by Kumarpal Desai, based on the provided text:

Book Title: A Journey of Ahimsa: Bhagwan Mahavir to Mahatma Gandhi Author: Kumarpal Desai Publisher: Shri Jaybhikhkhu Sahitya Trust

This book, "A Journey of Ahimsa," traces the enduring legacy and evolution of the principle of non-violence (Ahimsa) from its profound articulation by Bhagwan Mahavir, the 24th Jain Tirthankar, to its modern-day embodiment in Mahatma Gandhi. The author emphasizes that Ahimsa is not merely a passive concept but a dynamic, all-encompassing way of life that has the power to transform individuals, societies, and the world.

Core Message and Historical Context:

The book opens by highlighting the critical juncture humanity faces today, where the choice is no longer violence or non-violence, but non-violence or extinction due to pervasive global violence, terrorism, and conflict. The author uses the ancient Indian story of Bhasmasur to illustrate how violence ultimately consumes its perpetrator, a cautionary tale relevant to contemporary issues.

Bhagwan Mahavir and the Foundation of Ahimsa:

Universal Application: Bhagwan Mahavir, over two millennia ago, taught non-violence not just for humans but for all living beings, including animals and the natural world. He declared non-violence as the highest dharma.
Critique of Contemporary Practices: Mahavir challenged the prevalent practices of animal sacrifice in yagnas and the glorification of war for territorial gain and ambition, which led to immense suffering.
Inner Purity: He stressed that violence is an inner evil instinct, originating in the mind, and that true non-violence is reflected in thought, speech, and action. Cruelty to animals indicates a capacity for cruelty to humans.
Equality of All Life: Mahavir taught that all living organisms are as precious as oneself, as the soul transmigrates through different forms (yonis). Therefore, causing pain to any creature is akin to causing pain to oneself.
Respect for Nature: He recognized life in elements like earth, water, fire, wind, and plants, advocating respect for their existence as a form of non-violence and a foundation for environmentalism.
Embodiment of Ahimsa: Mahavir's life was a testament to his teachings. He practiced rigorous penance, including enduring physical pain and detaching from his body, demonstrating that attachment to the body hinders non-violence. He even moved away from his ashram to avoid disturbing nearby beings.
Connection to Other Virtues: Mahavir linked non-violence to truth, celibacy, non-possessiveness (aparigraha), and anekant (the doctrine of manifold aspects). He asserted that aparigraha, the shedding of inessentials, is crucial for practicing non-violence and can promote economic equality.
Resilience and Compassion: The book recounts Mahavir's encounters with violence, including facing a ruthless tribe and enduring calamities inflicted by the god Sangam. His unwavering composure and eventual compassion even for his tormentor highlight the transformative power of true Ahimsa.
Fearlessness and Friendship: Mahavir's non-violence was built on fearlessness and friendship, with violence being identified as a mental complex that leads to destruction.

Historical Figures and the Practice of Ahimsa:

The book then illustrates how the principle of Ahimsa was embraced and practiced by various historical figures:

Early Tirthankaras: Bhagwan Rishabhdev initiated the message of non-violence, and Bhagwan Neminath renounced his wedding upon hearing of animal sacrifices. Bhagwan Parshwanath's compassion for a snake highlights his innate sense of non-violence.
Kings and Queens: King Shrenik of Magadh banned killing, and Queen Mrigavati and Madanrekha played roles in preventing wars through non-violent appeals.
Emperor Ashoka: Ashoka, after the Kalinga war, became a proponent of non-violence, establishing policies for the welfare of humans and animals, planting trees, digging wells, and enacting strict laws against animal killing. His grandson, Samprati, also continued this tradition.
Acharya Haribhadrasuri: Faced with the killing of his disciples, he transformed his rage into the composition of scholarly works, demonstrating that intellect and creativity can triumph over violence.
Emperor Akbar: Influenced by Jainism, particularly through Acharya Hirvijaysurishwarji, Akbar implemented reforms such as prohibiting animal killing during Paryushan and releasing prisoners, showcasing the impact of Jain principles on a Mughal emperor.
King Kumarpal and Hemchandracharya: Kumarpal, inspired by Acharya Hemchandracharya, issued the "Amari Proclamation," closing slaughterhouses and halting animal torture, laying the foundation for Gujarat's reputation for non-violence.
Sheth Jagdusha: He exemplified compassion and non-violence by offering himself and his son for sacrifice instead of buffaloes, and by feeding millions during droughts.
Sheth Motisha: Established a cattle shed for the care of stray animals in Mumbai.

Mahatma Gandhi and Modern Ahimsa:

Spiritual Guru Shrimad Rajchandra: The book emphasizes that Shrimad Rajchandra was the pivotal figure who instilled in Mohandas K. Gandhi the core principles of non-violence, truth, spirituality, and the anekant philosophy. Gandhi considered Rajchandra his spiritual guru, whose teachings profoundly influenced his life and mission.
Gandhi's Application of Ahimsa: Gandhi applied non-violence (Satyagraha) in political, social, and spiritual revolutions. He saw non-violence as a powerful force requiring inner strength, fearlessness, sacrifice, justice, compassion, and tolerance.
Non-violence as a Strategy for Change: Gandhi believed that non-violence is the only way to overcome evil and injustice. He advocated for a change of heart rather than retaliation, asserting that love is the antidote to violence.
Anekant and Tolerance: Gandhi's embrace of anekant philosophy led him to understand and respect different viewpoints, emphasizing tolerance and accommodation of other religions.
Subtle Forms of Violence: Gandhi identified subtle forms of violence, such as hurting religious sentiments, ridiculing beliefs, imposing one's religion, and aggressive economic policies.
Non-violent Defense: While acknowledging a nation's right to defend itself, Gandhi stressed the need to minimize violence and loss of life during conflict.
Self-Restraint and Non-Possessiveness: Echoing Jain philosophy, Gandhi linked possessiveness (parigraha) to violence, advocating for self-restraint and detachment from excessive material possessions.
Resisting Evil and Injustice: Gandhi clarified that non-violence does not mean inaction against evil. He encouraged resistance without revenge, highlighting that true practitioners of non-violence are prepared to die rather than kill.
Universal Application: Gandhi believed non-violence should permeate all aspects of life, accessible to all ages and genders. It requires love for all and faith in God, becoming a way of life for world peace.
Influence on Global Leaders: The book notes Gandhi's profound impact on international figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Adolfo Perez Esquivel, and Aung San Suu Kyi, who adopted his methods of non-violent struggle for civil rights and democracy.

Conclusion:

"A Journey of Ahimsa" concludes by reiterating that non-violence is a universal principle, a powerful force for positive change capable of combatting terrorism and fostering peace. It calls for the twenty-first century to be a century of non-violence, recognizing it as the ultimate panacea for the world's problems, uniting humanity through love and brotherhood. The book positions the journey of Ahimsa from Bhagwan Mahavir to Mahatma Gandhi as a continuous beacon of hope for a more peaceful and humane world.