Divya sandesh of Mahavir swami
The Divya Sandesh or "divine message" of Bhagwan Mahavir Swami, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, centers on the core principles he taught throughout his life. Mahavir Swami emphasized the path of liberation (moksha) through self-discipline, ethical conduct, and non-violence. His primary messages include:
- Ahimsa (Non-violence):
The fundamental teaching of Mahavir Swami is non-violence in thought, word, and deed. He taught that every living being, however small, has a soul and deserves compassion and respect.
- Anekantavada (Multiplicity of viewpoints):
Mahavir Swami encouraged understanding and tolerance of different perspectives, emphasizing that truth and reality are complex and can be viewed from multiple angles.
- Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness):
He advocated for detachment from material possessions and desires, teaching that attachment leads to bondage and suffering.
- Satya (Truthfulness):
One should always speak the truth, but in a way that does not hurt others.
- Asteya (Non-stealing):
One must not take anything that is not willingly given.
- Brahmacharya (Celibacy or chastity):
Controlling desires and leading a life of self-restraint.
Mahavir Swami’s Divya Sandesh in his own words is often summarized as:
> "Live and let live." > "Ahimsa Parmo Dharma" (Non-violence is the supreme religion).
He emphasized liberation of the soul through right faith (Samyak Darshan), right knowledge (Samyak Gyan), and right conduct (Samyak Charitra), collectively known as the Three Jewels (Ratnatraya) of Jainism.
In summary: Mahavir Swami’s divine message is to practice non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-attachment; to respect all forms of life; to be tolerant; and to strive for spiritual liberation through right faith, knowledge, and conduct.