अहिंसा : आज का युग-धर्म
Summary
The article explores the concept of ahimsa (non-violence) as a universal philosophy that must permeate all aspects of life. It argues that the current socio-economic-political system must be restructured on the principle of ahimsa, presenting a non-violent alternative to every form of violence. The text, compiled by Kantibhai Shah from Vinoba Bhave's writings, delves into the spiritual foundation of ahimsa, linking it to the Vedantic understanding of the self (atma) which neither kills nor is killed. Ahimsa is described not merely as refraining from harm but as a positive path of love, treating all beings as oneself. The article traces the historical development of ahimsa in India, beginning with the discovery of agriculture, which liberated humans from the necessity of hunting and meat-eating. This was followed by the practice of cow protection and dairy, integrating animals into the human family. The text credits Jainism with pioneering the principle of abstaining from meat, a view now endorsed by the UN for global food security. The evolution of non-violent resistance is then examined, from the Vedic era where sages like Vishwamitra relied on warriors for protection, to saints who refused external help, and finally to the modern collective approach of satyagraha, pioneered by Mahatma Gandhi. The article concludes that while ancient rishis initiated the search for ahimsa, Gandhi provided its contemporary application, building upon India's spiritual heritage.
Conclusion
The document’s implications are profound, asserting that nonviolence must be a comprehensive, life-wide philosophy rather than a fragmented ideal. It argues that current socio-economic-political structures are incompatible with true nonviolence and must be fundamentally reorganized around its principles. The text traces nonviolence’s evolution from ancient agricultural discoveries and vegetarianism to modern satyagraha, positioning these as critical steps toward a nonviolent society. Key outcomes include the necessity of collective, rather than individual, nonviolent resistance and the rejection of meat-eating as essential for global peace and resource equity. Ultimately, the document calls for a complete societal transformation where nonviolence governs all human interactions, from personal conduct to systemic change, with satyagraha as a vital but still-developing tool for this ongoing revolution.