Should I be selfish for my spiritual growth if I need to choose against kids' future?
Answer
No. In Jain Dharma, you should not become selfish in the name of spiritual growth. True spiritual progress is not built on harming others, neglecting responsibility, or choosing ego over compassion.Explanation
Jain spirituality teaches:- Ahimsa — do not cause harm.
- Aparigraha — reduce attachment and possessiveness.
- Samyak drashti — see clearly and act rightly.
- Responsibility — do not abandon your duty toward those who depend on you.
If your choice may damage children’s future, then that is not something to justify as “spirituality.” Spiritual growth in Jainism means becoming less selfish, not more selfish.
A better question is:
- Which option causes less harm?
- Which option is more compassionate?
- Which option reduces attachment without neglecting duty?
Spiritual Understanding
In Jain Dharma, inner growth comes from:- controlling desires,
- reducing ego,
- acting with kindness,
- and avoiding violence in thought, word, and action.
If children are affected, Jain ethics would ask you to consider their welfare seriously. Self-realization should never be used as an excuse to escape care, duty, or empathy.
Sometimes detachment is necessary, but detachment is not indifference. You can be spiritually disciplined while still being loving, responsible, and fair.