Virtues Promoted By Dharma – Ahimsa

By Author: Chaitanya Kumari
Total Articles: 271
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“Ahimsa” is a profoundly important virtue in Hindu Dharma, emphasizing the principle of not harming any living being. This virtue stems from a fundamental belief in Sanatana Dharma that every life form carries a divine spark within it.

The age-old Indian scriptures also teach that when an individual violates the dictates of ‘Ahimsa,” it comes under bad karma. They must face the corresponding negative consequences. At this point, it is appropriate to highlight a few key aspects of this noble virtue.

• Many ancient texts from the Vedic period also describe “Ahimsa.” Since then, the term has continually evolved, and its definition has changed over time. Throughout history, numerous scholars and seers have interpreted “Ahimsa” in various ways.
• It is often thought that “Ahimsa” is the same as “non-violence,” but there is a significant difference between the two terms. “Non-violence” primarily focuses on refraining from actions that cause physical harm to others.
But “Ahimsa,” as described by Hindu Dharma, is much bigger than that; it is not just confined to physical ...
... violence. The Dharmic virtue urges people to avoid hurting others even mentally. We have to adopt a compassionate and empathetic approach. No harm should be caused, both in words and deeds.
• Being humble and helping others, as and when required, are traits that fall under the purview of “Ahimsa.”
• When a person meticulously adheres to the stipulations of “Ahimsa,” they will be benefited in many ways. They will be in a position to exercise control over their mind. And when the mind is restrained, one won’t get carried away by sensory impulses. These individuals can attain spiritual growth.
• A person who practices Ahimsa cultivates a peaceful mind. They face even hostile situations calmly and composedly, without losing their cool.
• In Sanatana Dharma, Ahimsa is considered the highest of all virtues. Some explanation is needed here to better understand the concept as outlined in Hinduism. The “non-violence” described in Hindu Dharma is not absolute; rather, it is understood in a relative context.
• When someone is compelled to resort to violence to safeguard Dharma, it cannot be called violence. It very much conforms to “Ahimsa.” In this context, an example of a war can be taken. Warriors fighting on the side of righteousness are not violating the principles of “Ahimsa.” In fact, they are upholding this Dharmic virtue by combating forces of adharma.
However, even when warriors have Dharma on their side, they should not be eager to enter into a war. They must do everything within their reach to resolve the disputes peacefully; war has to be only a last resort. It is only then that their actions in the war can be described as not going against Ahimsa. This important aspect is most clearly illustrated in the epic Mahabharata.
• Yama Dharmaraja - the God of Death in Hinduism - is described as holding a stick in his hand. The stick is to punish people who disregard Dharma and choose adharma. This aspect of Yama Dharmaraja is not considered as “violence”.

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