भगवान महावीर के संदेश और हमारा कर्तव्य
By मुनि राकेश कुमार
Summary
The text discusses the teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir, emphasizing spiritual control over desires and cravings through self-restraint. It highlights a fundamental conflict between Mahavir’s message and modern society, which equates progress with materialism and consumerism. The author notes that while many Jains consider themselves principled, few critically examine the clear truth that Mahavir’s concepts of minimal acquisition and possession cannot thrive in today’s civilization. The text addresses challenges faced by the Jain community regarding non-violence and non-possessiveness, arguing that true harmony is impossible when core differences exist. It criticizes the tendency to compromise ideals for the sake of adjustment, which has weakened the community’s spiritual vigor. The author asserts that Jainism is a philosophy of free thought, not a caste or community, and calls for a revolution against the mistaken identification of Jainism with caste. The text emphasizes the urgent need for Mahavir’s message of coexistence and tolerance in a world shrinking due to technology but plagued by cold war and conflict. It presents a metaphorical story of the moon and sun competing in an election, where the moon wins because it allows others to shine, illustrating the value of coexistence. The author concludes by urging the Jain community to resolve internal social discord and fulfill their duty to Mahavir’s teachings through organized effort.
Conclusion
The document underscores a fundamental conflict between Lord Mahavira’s teachings of restraint, non-possession, and coexistence and modern society’s materialistic and consumerist trajectory. It warns that Jain society, despite its theoretical adherence to principles, has weakened its spiritual core by compromising ideals for superficial harmony. The key implication is that true strength lies not in numerical growth or organizational size but in clarity of purpose and uncompromising adherence to non-violence and equality. The text calls for a revolution against caste-based distortions of Jainism and urges rejection of competitive, exclusionary attitudes symbolized by the sun’s dominance. Ultimately, adopting Mahavira’s message of coexistence and inner discipline offers a path to resolve social, national, and international conflicts, transforming society from within rather than through external accommodation.