how should the judgement towards these people be? Is plastic surgery a different matter from this?
From the Jain point of view, judging other people should be avoided. In Jain Dharma, the focus is on self-purification, compassion, and non-attachment, not on criticizing the outer appearance, choices, or circumstances of others.
In general:
- Do not form harsh judgment.
- Avoid raaga-dwesha — liking and disliking based on external things.
- See every soul as pure in its real nature, even if its outer form is different.
- Practice karuna and samabhava — compassion and equanimity.
About plastic surgery:
From a Jain perspective, plastic surgery is a different matter only in the sense of intention and impact, but it is still related to attachment to the body.- If it is done for medical repair, accident recovery, or to restore normal function, it is generally seen differently from surgery done mainly for beautification or vanity.
- If it is done out of attachment to appearance, then it can be understood as increasing bodily identification, which Jain teachings encourage us to reduce.
- However, Jain Dharma does not teach hatred toward the person who chooses it. The proper attitude is still non-judgment and compassion.
Simple Jain understanding:
- Judge neither the person nor the body.
- Reflect on your own attachment.
- Respect others, but remain detached from outer appearance.
So yes, plastic surgery can be viewed differently depending on purpose, but the Jain response should remain the same: humility, compassion, and non-judgment.