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What do you mean by non violence views
In Jainism, “non‑violence views” means the way we understand and practice Ahimsa (non‑violence).
Very simply:
- Non‑violence is the highest principle
- Jain dharma teaches: do not hurt any living being – not only humans, but also animals, birds, insects, even tiny unseen organisms – as far as possible. - This applies in thought, speech and action.
- Three levels of non‑violence
- Thought: no anger, hatred, cruelty, or wishing harm to anyone. - Speech: no abusive words, insults, lies or harsh talk that hurts others. - Body / Action: do not hit, kill, torture, or support any violent act.
- Direct and indirect violence
- Direct: when you yourself do the act of harming (e.g., killing an insect, beating an animal). - Indirect: when you order, support, or approve violence done by others (for example, asking someone else to kill, or enjoying seeing cruelty). - In Jain view, even indirect support creates bad karma.
- Practical examples of non‑violence
- Food: vegetarian (many Jains now move towards vegan) to avoid killing animals and causing cruelty. - Daily life: walk carefully, avoid killing insects, use water carefully, do not waste food, be gentle with people and nature. - Mind: practice forgiveness, patience, and friendliness (maitri) towards all beings.
- Difference for monks and laypeople
- Monks / nuns: follow complete non‑violence (Mahavrata) – extremely careful in every step, food, travel, and speech. - Householders: follow non‑violence as much as possible in family and work life (Anuvrata) – still, they must avoid intentional harm and reduce unavoidable harm.
- When violence seems “necessary”
- Ideal Jain view: avoid violence fully. - For normal people, if some harm is truly unavoidable (e.g., self‑defence, health reasons, daily work), it should be: - the minimum possible, - without anger or cruelty, - and followed by repentance (pratikraman) and more carefulness in future.
So, non‑violence views in Jainism mean living in such a way that we consciously reduce harm to every living being, in our thoughts, words, and actions, and keep increasing kindness and compassion every day.
