Paryavaran Ke Sandharbh Me Jain Drushtikon

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Paryavaran ke Sandharbh me Jain Drushtikon" (Jain Perspective in the Context of Environment) by Dr. Shekhar Chandra Jain:

The article, "Jain Perspective in the Context of Environment" by Dr. Shekhar Chandra Jain, highlights the pressing global concern for environmental degradation and pollution. It argues that while environmental discussion has become fashionable recently, the underlying issues are profound and stem from humanity's disruption of the natural balance.

Jainism's Ancient Understanding of Life and Environment:

• Sentient Earth (Sthavar Jiva): The text emphasizes that Jainism, thousands of years ago, recognized the existence of life in plants and other elements, a concept now validated by modern science. Jain scriptures classify the earth, water, fire, air, and vegetation as Sthavar Jiva (immovable or one-sensed beings). These beings, though possessing only the sense of touch, experience pleasure and pain, as evidenced by their reactions to stimuli like nourishment or damage.
• Interconnectedness of Life: Jainism posits that all living beings, from one-sensed to five-sensed, are interconnected and interdependent, as encapsulated by the principle "Parasparopagrahajivanam" (all living beings help one another). This understanding underscores the ethical obligation to live in harmony with nature.

Humanity's Disruption of the Environment:

• Exploitation for Self-Interest: The author criticizes humanity for altering its natural environment for personal gain, disrupting the ecological balance. This disruption has led to severe consequences, prompting human concern for environmental protection.
• Consequences of Meat Consumption and Fashion: The text strongly condemns meat-eating, hunting, and the pursuit of fashion (leather, cosmetics derived from animal products) as direct causes of immense violence and environmental imbalance. It details how these practices lead to the slaughter of countless innocent beings, the extinction of species, and the depletion of natural resources. The consumption of meat is particularly criticized for the continuous birth and death of nigoda (microscopic beings) within it.
• Industrial Pollution and Technological Misuse: The article points out that industrial development and scientific testing, driven by the pursuit of progress, have led to rampant pollution of air, water, and land. The author highlights the devastating impact of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture, which kill beneficial organisms and poison the soil and water, ultimately affecting human health.
• Deforestation and its Ramifications: The relentless cutting down of forests for human habitation and fuel is presented as a major environmental sin. Trees, vital for absorbing carbon dioxide and providing oxygen, also play a crucial role in preventing floods and maintaining water tables. Their destruction has led to water scarcity, landslides, floods, and an imbalance in seasons.
• Population Growth: The text links the burgeoning global population to the strain on natural resources and the increased need for land for living, agriculture, and industry, further exacerbating environmental problems. It attributes this growth to a lack of adherence to Jain principles like Brahmacharya (celibacy or restraint in sensual desires).

The Jain Solution for Environmental Harmony:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence) as the Foundation: Ahimsa is presented as the core tenet of Jainism and the ultimate solution for environmental protection. The principle of non-violence extends to all living beings and the natural world.
• Aparigraha (Non-possession) and Limited Needs: The principles of non-possession and controlling desires are crucial for reducing consumption and the demand for resources. Adopting a simple lifestyle, limiting one's needs to essential sustenance, would prevent the destruction of nature for accumulation.
• Vegetarianism and Ethical Eating: Jainism's emphasis on vegetarianism, abstaining from meat, eggs, honey, and certain root vegetables, is presented as a direct measure to reduce violence and protect the environment.
• Mindfulness and Control of Senses: The text advocates for mindfulness, control of speech, mind, and body, and particularly emphasizes the importance of mauna (silence) for clear thinking and reducing noise pollution, which negatively impacts human cognition.
• Respect for All Life Forms: The article calls for the cultivation of compassion, kindness, forgiveness, and friendliness towards all creatures. It encourages recognizing that every living being, like humans, desires to live peacefully.
• Reverence for Nature: The author draws parallels with Hindu traditions that revere nature, citing the worship of trees, the significance of animals as vehicles of deities, and the historical practice of animal protection in Jain kingdoms.
• Practical Measures: The text suggests practical steps like preventing air, water, and noise pollution, avoiding violent food sources, and promoting the principles of coexistence and compassion ("Parasparopagrahajivanam") to restore ecological balance.

In conclusion, the article argues that a deep understanding and adoption of Jain principles like Ahimsa, Aparigraha, and reverence for all life are essential for addressing the global environmental crisis and ensuring the survival of the planet. It asserts that if humanity embraces these principles, it can revert to a harmonious coexistence with nature, saving itself from a self-inflicted destructive path.