Significance of Non-violence
Non-violence, or Ahimsa, is a fundamental principle across various philosophical and religious traditions. In Jainism, it emphasizes the practice of avoiding harm to all living beings, while in Buddhism, it highlights the importance of peaceful conduct. Vaishnavism considers it a key virtue within worship. Mahatma Gandhi championed non-violence as a method for social and political change, advocating for conflict resolution without resorting to violence. This principle promotes compassion, ethical conduct, and the sanctity of life, forming a core aspect of many traditions and teachings.
Synonyms: Pacifism, Non-aggression, Peacefulness, Tranquility, Serenity, Passivity
In French: Non-violence; In Dutch: Geweldloosheid; In Finnish: Väkivallattomuus; In Spanish: No-violencia; In German: Gewaltlosigkeit; In Swedish: Ickevåld; In Malay: Tanpa kekerasan
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Non-violence'
Non-violence, or ahimsa, is a core Buddhist principle advocating for the avoidance of harm to all living beings, crucial to ethical teachings and especially reflected in the lifestyle of monks promoting peaceful conduct.
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)
(1) Non-violence (ahimsa) is a fundamental principle in Buddhism that emphasizes refraining from harming any living beings.[1]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The principle of not hurting any living being, central to the ethical teachings of Buddhism.[2]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A fundamental principle in Buddhism advocating for peaceful and non-harmful conduct towards others.[3]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) A principle emphasized in Buddhism, especially in the monk's lifestyle, signifying the avoidance of harm to living beings.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Non-violence'
Non-violence in Hinduism is a core ethical principle emphasizing the avoidance of harm to all living beings. It is integral to Dharma, representing compassion and respect, crucial for spiritual purity and ethical conduct in daily life.
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The principle of not causing harm to others, regarded as a fundamental moral quality.[5] (2) The principle of not causing harm to others, emphasizing peace and respect for all beings.[6] (3) The principle of practicing ahimsa in daily life as outlined in the scriptures.[7]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A principle that, while important, is not sufficient on its own to demonstrate true devotion or service to the Lord.[8]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A fundamental virtue representing the flower of Ahimsa, essential in the context of worship.[9]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) A core principle in Buddhism advocating against harm to any living being, often termed 'ahimsa.'[10] (2) The ethical principle advocating for actions that do not harm others, often emphasized in various religious and philosophical teachings.[11]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) Considered the foremost principle among those that promote the life of creatures.[12]
Jain concept of 'Non-violence'
In Jainism, Non-violence is a fundamental principle advocating for the avoidance of all forms of violence, emphasizing compassion and respect for all living beings in thought, word, and action.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A principle or practice that advocates against the use of violence.[13]
The concept of Non-violence in local and regional sources
Non-violence, as presented in the text, is a fundamental principle advocated by Mahatma Gandhi, emphasizing conflict resolution through peaceful means. It underscores moral resistance against oppression, rejecting violence while promoting love, compassion, and ethical conduct.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) This concept embodies infinite humility as a fundamental principle, contrasting with expressions of pride and anger, suggesting an understanding of this core tenet is essential.[14] (2) This was a necessary pre-condition for the success of Gandhiji's demonstrations, serving to vindicate the positive, self-sufficient vitality of truth, and was not a creed.[15] (3) The principle of resolving conflicts and achieving goals without resorting to violence.[16] (4) An ideology advocating for resolution through peaceful means rather than through conflict or aggression, highlighted in the context of overcoming societal issues.[17] (5) A principle promoted by Gandhiji emphasizing the resolution of conflicts through peaceful means without resorting to violence.[18]
From: Sanskrit Words In Southeast Asian Languages
(1) This is the practice of avoiding the use of physical force or aggression to resolve conflicts or achieve goals, promoting peace.[19]