भगवान महावीर का अपरिग्रह दर्शन
By प्रोफ़ेसर सुमेरचंढ जैन
Summary
The text discusses Bhagwan Mahavir’s philosophy of aparigraha (non-possessiveness), presented approximately 2600 years ago. Mahavir taught that one who does not share or renounce wealth cannot attain liberation. Possessiveness (parigraha) is the root of all five sins: violence, falsehood, theft, sexual misconduct, and excessive attachment. Mahavir’s definition of parigraha differs from the worldly idea of accumulating objects. He considers the body, accumulated karma, and material things as parigraha if there is attachment (murchha) toward them. Without attachment, no object is parigraha. Thus, parigraha has two forms: internal (attachment) and external (objects). A story illustrates this: Gautam pointed to a destitute man, calling him aparigrahi. Mahavir clarified that if the man’s mind still harbors attachment, he is merely a poor person fond of possessions. True aparigraha requires freedom from both internal attachment and external possessions. For a yogi, even a single blanket can be his entire world, while for another, a palace can be a solitary place of penance. For householders, Mahavir prescribed ichha-parimana (limitation of desires) rather than complete renunciation. He set two conditions: wealth must be earned through honest means, and it should not be used for personal luxury. Even if one earns millions, if these conditions are met, there is no restriction on earnings. Aparigraha naturally leads to non-violence, as violence arises from protecting accumulated possessions. Mahavir’s philosophy offers a solution to modern economic inequality and corruption, which stem from uncontrolled desires and the urge to hoard. His principle of limiting desires is a ray of light in today’s darkness.
Conclusion
Lord Mahavira's philosophy of non-possessiveness offers a profound solution to modern economic inequality and social crises. By distinguishing between inner attachment and external objects, the text reveals that true liberation comes not from renouncing possessions but from eliminating mental clinging. For householders, Mahavira prescribed ethical earning and personal restraint rather than complete renunciation, allowing wealth accumulation through honest means while maintaining self-discipline. This framework directly addresses contemporary issues like corruption and hoarding, which stem from uncontrolled desires and accumulation tendencies. The philosophy's emphasis on limiting wants and practicing equitable distribution provides practical guidance for creating a more just society. Ultimately, Mahavira's teachings demonstrate that non-possessiveness naturally fosters non-violence, as violence often arises from protecting accumulated wealth. This ancient wisdom remains urgently relevant for navigating today's global challenges of resource disparity and environmental sustainability.