The relevance of the teachings of Lord Mahavira in the modern age

Summary

Duli Chand Jain addresses the pressing problems of the modern world and argues that Mahāvīra’s teachings provide remedies. He observes that despite advances in science and technology, contemporary life is characterised by tension, anxiety and conflict. Scientific progress has improved comfort but has not made humanity happier; industrialisation and global inequality have led to environmental degradation, armament industries and divisions between wealthy and poor nations. Social relationships are deteriorating, and individuals feel isolation and boredom. Jain attributes these crises to materialism, uncontrolled desires and ignorance of the self. The author asserts that Mahāvīra’s teachings, particularly the emphasis on self‑discipline and inner knowledge, can counteract these trends. Mahāvīra advocated the Five Great Vows—truthfulness, non‑violence, non‑stealing, chastity and non‑possession—and taught that attachment and aversion are the root causes of karma and suffering. Jain notes that non‑violence includes non‑injury in thought, word and deed; its practice fosters compassion and sustainable coexistence. Non‑possession discourages consumerism and promotes equitable resource distribution. By observing these vows, individuals can restrain their desires, reduce exploitation and cultivate harmony. The article also discusses Mahāvīra’s emphasis on intellectual tolerance and anekāntavāda; by recognising that different viewpoints may contain partial truths, people can avoid dogmatism and resolve conflicts peacefully. Jain concludes that the modern age needs ethical principles rooted in spiritual awareness rather than material pursuits. He suggests that governments, educators and spiritual leaders should disseminate Mahāvīra’s teachings to guide humanity toward a more balanced and humane civilisation.