Compassion (karuṇā) is the key instrument for practicing ahiṃsā (non-violence), the bedrock of Jain doctrine. All Jain tenets embody ahiṃsā and karuṇā – for example, aparigraha (restrained possessiveness) reflects compassion towards environment; satya (truthfulness) and anekāntvāda (non-one-sidedness) represent compassion in speech; and asteya (non-stealing) and brahmacarya (carnal restraint or respectful conduct) exemplify compassion in conduct.
Karuṇā is considered one of the four contemplations (bhāvanās) prescribed in Jain tradition to build righteous character as expressed in the sūtra matrī-pramoda-kāruṇya-mādhyasthyāni ca sattva-guṇādhika-kaliśamānâ-vineyeṣu (the Tattvārtha Sūtra 7.6). The other three being maitri (friendship), pramoda (delight), and madhyasthatā (equanimity).
The ancient Jain scriptural aphorism Parasparopagraho Jīvānām (the Tattvārtha Sūtra 5.21), meaning “all life is bound together by mutual support and interdependence,” further highlights the centrality of compassion in Jain tradition. The aphorism remains relevant in contemporary thought while playing a pivotal role in guiding human actions for a compassionate living.
Actions of compassion are not unique to Jain tradition; most faiths emphasize the importance of compassionate behavior. However, for Jains, cultivating compassionate demeanor holds profound significance. It is vital for spiritual advancement to end the bondage and the birth-death cycles for achieving the ultimate goal of final liberation (mokṣa), which is considered the fundamental purpose of human life. Therefore, compassion in action is an indispensable aspect of the Jain way of life.
Compassion can be expressed in various ways – for instance, by helping humans in need, supporting other living beings, protecting the environment and ecology, and many more. Each act of compassion fosters immense feelings of joy and fulfillment. One of the most significant applications of compassion, however, is inwardly directed towards oneself to build a life that nurtures a life of spiritual growth and elation.
The presenters at this conference explore multiple aspects of compassion in action, highlighting pragmatic applications of some highly effective practices.
Arihanta Institute, through its Engaged Jain Studies program, offers diverse learning opportunities, including courses, webinars, and this conference to promote adoption of compassion in life. The author will discuss ongoing programs and initiatives designed to further these efforts.
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