मर्यादा : परिवर्तन की शक्ति
Summary
The text discusses the philosophy of social change, citing Dr. S. Radhakrishnan's view that a living society must possess both the power to persist and the power to change. It contrasts uncivilized societies, where progress is minimal and change is viewed with suspicion, with civilized societies where progress and change are vital. The text applies this to the Terapanth religious order, which is celebrating its 239th Marryada Mahotsav. It emphasizes that the capacity for change has been inherent in Terapanth since its inception, as evidenced by its 245-46 years of development. The source of this change is identified as high imagination, strong discipline, and sincere human conduct, qualities present in its leaders. However, the most crucial aspect is "maryada" (discipline or boundary). Any organization, religious, social, or political, can achieve its goals only by staying within its boundaries. For Terapanth, these boundaries are not burdensome but spontaneous and universally acceptable. The text distinguishes between the ascetic community and the lay followers, noting that while the rules for ascetics inspire lay followers, they are not expected to follow them literally. However, lay followers remain committed to the core principles. Terapanth is not a rigid sect; its acharyas have always held that sectarianism, not the sect itself, is harmful. Organizations like Anuvrat and Ahimsa Samvay are considered strong platforms for Terapanth. The text highlights Acharya Mahapragya's Ahimsa Yatra, which began in late 2001, before the communal violence in Gujarat. The yatra's goal is not just to quell communal violence but to address the many forms of violence in daily life and build a non-violent society. The text concludes by noting that Terapanth has wise and enlightened leadership, particularly Acharya Mahapragya, who on February 16, 2003, will reach an age no previous acharya has attained. It expresses the hope that his spiritual energy will revitalize a humanity suffering from inequality and injustice
Conclusion
The document underscores that for any living society, including the Terapanth religious order, the power to persist must be balanced with the power to change. The Terapanth's 239th Maryada Mahotsav serves as a crucial reminder that its strength lies in self-sustaining discipline and spontaneously accepted boundaries, not rigid impositions. The implications are clear: the order's future vitality depends on maintaining this dynamic balance, especially as it navigates the relationship between its ascetic community and lay followers. The ongoing Ahimsa Yatra, led by Acharya Mahapragya, exemplifies this adaptive spirit, aiming not merely to quell communal violence but to cultivate a comprehensive non-violent lifestyle. Ultimately, the document suggests that the Terapanth's most profound contribution will be its ability to use its spiritual energy to revitalize a humanity wounded by inequality and injustice, ensuring its relevance and moral leadership in a changing world.