Ahimsa

Definition

Ahimsa is the principle of non-violence and reverence for all living beings, deeply rooted in various Asian religions. This concept emphasizes compassion and the avoidance of harm towards others, whether through action, speech, or thought. It plays a pivotal role in ethical practices and philosophies, influencing everything from personal behavior to social justice issues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ahimsa is a foundational concept in Jainism, where it is regarded as the highest ethical principle, leading to strict adherence to non-violence in thought, word, and deed.
2. In Hinduism, ahimsa influences many aspects of life, including dietary choices, with vegetarianism being a common practice among its followers.
3. Buddhism incorporates ahimsa into its core teachings, where it aligns with the idea of compassion (karuna) and is reflected in the precepts that prohibit killing.
4. The practice of ahimsa has broader implications for social issues, including non-violent resistance movements inspired by figures like Mahatma Gandhi, who applied this principle to fight for justice.
5. In contemporary discussions, ahimsa is increasingly linked to environmental ethics and animal rights, emphasizing the need for a compassionate approach towards all forms of life.

Review Questions

• How does the principle of ahimsa manifest differently in Jainism compared to Hinduism?
  • In Jainism, ahimsa is the supreme ethical principle that demands complete non-violence towards all living beings, including the smallest microorganisms. Jains often go to great lengths to avoid harming any creature, even following strict vegetarian diets and engaging in practices like sweeping the ground before walking to prevent stepping on insects. In contrast, while Hinduism also values ahimsa and encourages non-violence, it allows for more flexibility regarding social duties and roles which might necessitate some level of harm, particularly in the context of dharma and societal responsibilities.
• Discuss how the concept of ahimsa intersects with environmental ethics within Asian religions.
  • Ahimsa has significant implications for environmental ethics across various Asian religions. The principle encourages respect for all forms of life and promotes a deep awareness of the interconnectedness between humans and nature. Many adherents apply this idea by advocating for sustainable practices that protect ecosystems and minimize harm to animals. The commitment to non-violence extends beyond interpersonal relationships to encompass our treatment of the earth, leading many religious communities to engage in movements that address ecological concerns through compassionate stewardship.
• Evaluate how ahimsa influences contemporary human rights movements within Asian contexts.
  • Ahimsa plays a crucial role in shaping contemporary human rights movements across Asia by promoting non-violent resistance as an effective means for advocating social justice. This principle inspires activists who aim to challenge oppression without resorting to violence, thereby fostering dialogue and peaceful resolution. Movements led by figures like Mahatma Gandhi have demonstrated that applying ahimsa can lead to significant social change while maintaining moral integrity. The ongoing relevance of ahimsa continues to inspire new generations fighting for human rights across diverse contexts in Asia.

Related terms

Karma:

The law of cause and effect, where one's actions directly influence future experiences and outcomes in life.

Dharma:

The moral law combined with spiritual discipline that guides an individual's life according to their place in the world.

Buddhist Precepts: Guidelines for ethical conduct in Buddhism that promote right action, speech, and livelihood, closely tied to the idea of ahimsa.