【Hints for 'Coexistence' Learnt from Jainism, the World's Gentlest (?) Way of Life】

Have you ever heard of the precepts of Jainism? At first glance, they appear so thorough that you might think they are the strictest in the world. Yet, if you look closer, they are full of warm hints for us to live gently and in harmony in modern society.

​■ What are the 'Five Great Vows' of Jainism?

There are five vows (Pancha Mahavrata) that Jain ascetics must observe above all else.

​① Non-violence (Ahimsa): Not killing any living thing

② Truthfulness (Satya): Not speaking false words

③ Non-stealing (Achaurya/Asteya): Not taking what is not given

④ Chastity (Brahmacharya): Not committing sexual misconduct

⑤ Non-possession (Aparigraha): Not possessing anything (non-attachment)

​These are considered the starting point for final liberation ('Moksha', being free).

​■ A World of Thorough 'Non-violence (Ahimsa)'

The first vow, 'Non-violence', is particularly thorough. In fact, it is said that the concept of non-violence advocated by Mahatma Gandhi was also strongly influenced by Jainism.

​In India, it is often said that Jains do not eat root vegetables. This is to avoid harming microscopic creatures in the soil when pulling the vegetables up.

​When I visited a Jain facility in South India, I saw a fine cloth bag attached to the end of a water tap. It was an extremely delicate consideration to avoid accidentally swallowing the tiny life in the water.

​You might be surprised and ask, "Do they go that far?" However, living in modern times where consumption and waste are common, this 'delicacy towards life' has become a deep lesson for me.

​■ Imagining 'They are Just Like Me'

At the heart of Jainism lies this idea:

"It is argued that we must recognise the existence of a soul (Jiva) in all things, and because the soul is of the same nature as one's own, we must not harm or kill it." (Quoted/summarised from 'An Introduction to Jainism')

​This is not just a 'rule', but an ultimate empathy: that "the other feels pain just as I do, and loves life."

​This perspective is the foundation of 'manners' that should be learnt from childhood. Furthermore, by not harming others, it leads to self-acceptance, knowing that we do not harm ourselves as a result.

​■ Praised by the Great Japanese Genius, Minakata Kumagusu

The naturalist Minakata Kumagusu also held Jainism in high regard.

​"While Christianity preaches the equality of humanity, Jainism advocates and practises 'impartiality towards all living things' on top of that (there being no distinction between all forms of life)."

​Beyond equality between humans, animals and plants, and even invisible tiny life, are made objects of 'kindness'. This thorough spirit of equality may be the true form of 'eco' or 'sustainable' that is needed in this era.

​■ What We Can Do

For those who are not Jains, it may be difficult to perfectly observe all of the precepts.

But, "Taking care not to harm others, even in thought."

Perhaps that one step can foster a gentler 'friendship' between oneself and the world around us.