Vishwashanti Ke Sandarbh Me Mahavir Ka Sandesh

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vishwashanti ke Sandarbh me Mahavir ka Sandesh" (Lord Mahavir's Message in the Context of World Peace) by U N Bacchavat, in English:

This document argues that the current era is one of profound global unrest and insecurity, driven by the arms race initiated after World War II and the ensuing ideological conflicts and power struggles. The author posits that humanity, despite significant material progress, has become weakened on the spiritual and humanistic front, prioritizing power acquisition over human welfare. This has led to a dangerous situation where the very existence of civilization is threatened by the potential for a devastating global conflict, a prospect worse than any previous war.

The text asserts that the root cause of this global crisis lies in the same negative forces that prevailed in Lord Mahavir's time: violence, hatred, malice, inequality, and animosity. Lord Mahavir, who emerged during such an era, renounced his royal life to seek a path to free humanity from this pervasive unrest and to establish lasting peace. Through intense spiritual practice and contemplation, he attained omniscience and delivered a message for the welfare of all living beings.

The core of Mahavir's message, according to the document, is his eternal teachings of truth, non-violence (Ahimsa), love, compassion, coexistence, non-possession (Aparigraha), anekantavada (non-absolutism), and syadvada (conditional predication).

Key aspects of Mahavir's teachings highlighted in relation to world peace include:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence): Mahavir taught that all beings cherish life and desire happiness, so one should cultivate a feeling of amity towards all. He identified violence as the root cause of all suffering and urged against harming any living being. He emphasized that just as we experience pleasure and pain, so do other creatures. His message extended beyond humans to all living beings, advocating for compassion and equal treatment. He defined Ahimsa positively, stating that all souls are equal and should be treated as one wishes to be treated by others. This personal commitment to non-violence is crucial for developing strong character and contributing to a peaceful society.
• The Danger of Materialism and Power: The text criticizes the current focus on national or group existence and progress at the expense of individual human life and character. Mahavir's emphasis on the well-being and ethical conduct of each individual is presented as the antidote.
• Holistic View of Violence: Mahavir did not limit violence to physical acts but also condemned mental or ideological violence. The document points out that current discussions on peace often overlook mental violence, contributing to the failure of efforts for lasting world peace.
• Anekantavada (Non-Absolutism): This is presented as Mahavir's most significant and fundamental teaching, promoting the synthesis of various ideologies. It encourages viewing things from multiple perspectives rather than in an isolated or singular manner. This philosophy opens the doors to intellectual breadth and is considered highly progressive. The text states that the inability to adopt a broad perspective, along with stubbornness and dogmatism, are significant threats to world peace today. The lack of mutual trust between nations and the one-sided approach in their policies and ideologies hinder lasting peace. The concept of non-alignment, advocated by some peace-loving nations, is seen as rooted in Anekantavada.
• Samata (Equality) and Aparigraha (Non-Possession): Mahavir taught that all beings are equal and possess the same soul, thus their existence should be accepted and respected. His concept of equality is presented as the best solution to the present-day issues of racism, classism, casteism, and gender discrimination. To overcome economic inequality and exploitation, Mahavir advocated for Aparigraha, emphasizing detachment from material possessions and limiting one's needs. The message of not accumulating more than necessary and moderating one's own requirements is seen as crucial.
• Ahimsa as the Path to True Peace: The text distinguishes between the peace achieved through war and the true, lasting peace that can only be attained through Ahimsa. It criticizes the notion that winning wars or merely ceasing hostilities constitutes peace. Mahavir's concept of non-possession is linked to a non-violent socialist ideology, with Ahimsa being its very soul. True bravery, the text argues, lies in remaining steadfast and fearless in the face of adversity and confronting evil and violence with inner strength. Ahimsa is depicted as the weapon of heroes, which humanity desperately needs today.

In conclusion, the document stresses that Lord Mahavir's philosophy, encompassing Ahimsa, Samata, Aparigraha, and Anekantavada, remains remarkably relevant, original, and potent for establishing lasting world peace, even twenty-five centuries after his time. His principles are presented as timeless and effective solutions for the challenges facing humanity today.