The World's Problems and Jaina View-Point

Prof: Sagarmal Jain argues that humanity faces global problems because of its own actions, and he examines the Jaina viewpoint on mental tension, the survival of the human race, and war and violence. According to Jainism, the main human suffering is mental rather than physical, caused by attachment to worldly objects. The author cites the Uttaradhyayana-sutra, which states that attachment is the root of all suffering. Lord Mahavira taught that delusion, desire, greed, and attachment must be eliminated to end misery. The author argues that unfulfilled desires and a materialistic outlook lead to frustration, resentment, and mental tension, even in affluent societies. The solution is a detached outlook, which leads to equanimity. The second problem discussed is the survival of the human race and disarmament. The author attributes the nuclear arms race to a lack of mutual faith, which creates fear and insecurity. The Sutrakrtanga states that there is nothing higher than the sense of security one can give to others. Lord Mahavira, in the Acaranga, proclaimed that nothing is superior to asastra, meaning disarmament or non-violence. Jainas believe that a sense of security and the accumulation of weapons are inversely related, and that non-violence is the only way to survive. The third problem is war and violence, rooted in discontentment, the will for power, and attachment. The author notes that while economic inequalities and overpopulation are modern causes of war, Jainas condemn all violence. The Uttaradhyayana advises fighting one’s own passions rather than others. Jainas accept that defensive and occupational violence is necessary for worldly beings with social obligations, but they aim to minimize it. The author suggests two measures to reduce violence: fighting wars without weapons under a referee, as in the war between Bharat and Bahubali, and applying non-violent opposition, as Gandhiji did. However, the author concludes that non-violent methods are only effective against those who have a human heart and faith in human values.

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