Ahiṃsā (Non-Violence): The Virtue of Greatness

In the journey of realisation of truth and self, the necessary virtue is ahiṃsā (अहिंसा), meaning non-violence. In my humble attempt to understand the meaning of life and to attain Paramātmā (परमात्मा), the ultimate creator – the thought that approached my mind is that I should sincerely and earnestly adopt the practice of ahiṃsā in my life. I firmly believe without it, I will not be able to understand the vast dimension of life indeed.

Let’s first take a look, what our scriptures say about ahiṃsā:

परम धर्म श्रुति बिदित अहिंसा।

पर निंदा सम अघ न गरीसा॥

(Ramcharitmanas, Uttar Kand 120.11)

"Ahiṃsā (non-violence) is the supreme duty,

And there is no greater sin than slander."

अहिंसा परमॊ धर्मस तथाहिंसा परॊ दमः।

अहिंसा परमं दानम अहिंसा परमस तपः ॥

अहिंसा परमॊ यज्ञस तथाहिस्मा परं बलम

अहिंसा परमं मित्रम अहिंसा परमं सुखम

अहिंसा परमं सत्यम अहिंसा परमं शरुतम ॥

(Mahābhārata, 13.117.37 & 38)

"Ahiṃsā is the highest Dharma, Ahiṃsā is the highest self-control,

Ahiṃsā is the greatest gift, Ahiṃsā is the best practice.

Ahiṃsā is the highest sacrifice, Ahiṃsā is the finest strength,

Ahiṃsā is the greatest friend, Ahiṃsā is the greatest happiness,

Ahiṃsā is the highest truth, and Ahiṃsā is the greatest teaching."

These verses explain the importance of ahiṃsā in a very clear and direct manner. The premise on which this principle stands is karuṇā (compassion) – love for fellow beings. As the Shree Krsna said:

आत्मौपम्येन सर्वत्र समं पश्यति योऽर्जुन |
सुखं वा यदि वा दु:खं स योगी परमो मत: ||

(Bhagavad Gita 6.32)

"I regard them to be perfect yogis who see the true equality of all living beings and respond to the joys and sorrows of others as if they were their own."

The shloka mentioned above underscores the importance of scrutinising it. It imparts the wisdom that a genuine seeker of truth, a true yogi, must extend their vision to encompass not only human beings but ALL LIVING CREATURES. They should foster a perspective of universal equality and empathy. In Bhagavad Gita Chapter 12, Shloka 13, Shree Krishna reinforces the idea that He holds dear those devotees who harbour no ill will towards any living being, and who exhibit friendliness and compassion. Additionally, Shree Bhagwan elucidates to Arjuna that compassion for all living beings is a virtue of the saintly. (Bhagavad Gita 16.1-3)

What is ahiṃsā?

Ahiṃsā, non-violence, stands as both a virtue and a solemn duty for those on the path to truth. It transcends the conventional understanding of mere physical harm avoidance. Embracing ahiṃsā as a practice involves being consciously aware and restraining ourselves from causing harm through our words and actions. The practice of non-violence must extend beyond the realm of actions and words; it should also include our thoughts. Ahiṃsā is an act of ego (ahaṃkāra) into humility. Humility, a vital component of and for ahiṃsā, arises when we begin to perceive other living entities as interconnected with ourselves rather than separate. When we internalise the understanding that harm inflicted upon others is essentially harm to oneself, true humility occurs, and the intention to inflict injury upon others gradually vanishes.

The practice of non-violence should not just be a choice but a fundamental law of life. The true power of non-violence can only be comprehended and integrated into one's life through unwavering faith in the divine. Non-violence necessitates the adoption of truthfulness, compassion, and humility. When one actively engages in non-violence, it becomes evident that the right to life and respect is equally significant for others as it is for oneself. Violating the fundamentally and divinely granted rights and laws of others constitutes an act of violence and an immoral sin. The act of violence cannot be justified – this must be understood beyond its literary meaning. The embracement and practice of non-violence is not a passive endeavour but an active engagement of consciousness.

The practice of ahiṃsā, non-violence, is not a principle confined to India alone; it is a fundamental and universal law meant for every conscious being. Yet, one may ponder whether adhering to non-violence makes you appear weak. The unequivocal answer is no. When we delve deep into this principle from a cosmic perspective, we recognise it as a virtue of strength and power. Only a disciplined and mindful individual can truly embrace it, as the weak often cannot control their thoughts and actions. When violent thoughts emerge, they mirror an individual's perception of others as potential threats. In contrast, those who embody strength do not view anyone as a threat but as an integral part of the divine. In my understanding, the principle of non-violence calls for the following actions:

a) Utilizing your speech judiciously and mindfully, expressing respect and affection exclusively through kind words. Refraining from abusive, disrespectful, or harsh language.

b) Exercising restraint over unkind or violent thoughts of any nature.

c) Abstaining from harbouring any desire or causing physical harm to others.

d) Cultivating a profound sense of universal love and compassion.

Problem: The challenge lies within the mind, where violent thoughts may arise, tempting us to harm others for our personal satisfaction. These thoughts emerge when situations make us feel displeased or sad, and our ego commands us to consider violent actions for our sensory gratification. It is essential to recognise that violent thoughts involve intentions to harm or injure others.

When you embrace the principle of non-violence, your mind experiences liberation. Non-violence serves as a guide, directing your mental capabilities towards the path of truth. It also signifies your unwavering commitment to God and truth in your life. With sincere and constant practice, non-violence brings about a fundamental and positive change that might otherwise be unattainable. It acts as a safeguard, preventing your mind from wandering or becoming distracted by the material world's fallacies. Non-violence helps you stay resolute in your pursuit of reality.

Why am I writing this piece?

A week ago, while I was seated on the back of a TVS iQube scooter, with my friend Mohit in the rider's seat. We were on our way to Shastri Nagar, an area in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. As we journeyed, I found myself in deep contemplation, observing how the Jain community, the followers of Mahavira's teachings, had managed to flourish and excel as one of the most harmonious communities in India.

It became evident that two essential traits set them apart from other communities: their unwavering commitment to abstaining from violent acts and their use of sweet and respectful language. The Jains wholeheartedly embraced the principle of ahiṃsā that "Non-violence is the supreme religion." While the practice of non-violence is also preached in Hindu scriptures, I, like many other followers of Hinduism, had regrettably not fully integrated this principle into our daily lives. As I write this, I sense that it may draw criticism from my community, suggesting that I am the one who hasn't practised or fully realised its importance, while they have.

But from what I have observed in places like Jodhpur, Pune, and London, across various income strata, is that the practice of non-violence often seems absent. I don't hesitate to admit that I, too, had not grasped this divine commandment's profound and sacred nature until now. I do regret this, but it’s never too late.

On a societal level, I see a fundamental reason for this. We often take pride in our spiritual heritage, citing our ancient scriptures like the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, or Ramayana, but we may not always invest the time to read, understand, and discuss these teachings. I would pose an honest question to ourselves and those around us: How many have genuinely read these scriptures and integrated their wisdom into their lives? The typical response to this question often centres on the belief that adhering to these teachings in today's modern world is impractical. However, I believe this is a misguided notion. If we approach these teachings with an effort to reinterpret and apply them within the context of our current lives, it becomes feasible. I penned this piece as a means to deepen my understanding and wholeheartedly commit to the principle of ahiṃsā in my life. My sincere aspiration is to fully embrace non-violence in every facet of my existence – in my thoughts, words, and deeds.