Ahimsa

Definition

Ahimsa is a fundamental ethical principle in Hinduism that promotes non-violence and the avoidance of harm to any living being. It is not just the absence of physical violence but also encompasses thoughts, words, and actions that could cause harm, making it a central tenet in living a moral and compassionate life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ahimsa is often associated with Mahatma Gandhi, who applied this principle to his philosophy of nonviolent resistance during India's struggle for independence.
2. In addition to human interactions, ahimsa extends to all living beings, influencing dietary choices among many Hindus who choose vegetarianism.
3. Ahimsa plays a crucial role in the concept of yoga, where practitioners aim to cultivate inner peace and compassion towards others.
4. The practice of ahimsa involves not only refraining from physical harm but also avoiding harmful speech and thoughts towards others.
5. Ahimsa is deeply interwoven with the concept of dharma, where fulfilling one's duty must be balanced with compassion and non-violence.

Review Questions

• How does ahimsa inform the understanding of dharma in Hindu ethics?
  • Ahimsa profoundly influences the concept of dharma by emphasizing that one's duties must be carried out without causing harm to others. In Hindu ethics, fulfilling responsibilities—whether personal or social—requires consideration of the impact on all living beings. Therefore, when performing one's dharma, individuals are encouraged to act in ways that promote peace and avoid violence, making ahimsa an essential aspect of righteous living.
• Discuss how the principle of ahimsa shapes social duties and responsibilities within Hinduism.
  • The principle of ahimsa shapes social duties and responsibilities by promoting a culture of respect and compassion among individuals. This encourages people to engage in altruistic behaviors that benefit society while refraining from actions that could cause suffering or harm. In this way, social interactions are guided by an ethical framework where kindness and empathy become fundamental aspects of one's roles within family, community, and beyond.
• Evaluate the significance of ahimsa in contemporary Hindu practice and its relationship with external influences like colonialism.
  • Ahimsa's significance in contemporary Hindu practice can be seen through its application in various movements advocating for peace and justice. The colonial experience challenged traditional beliefs and led to a re-evaluation of ahimsa, as leaders like Gandhi adapted it into a powerful tool against oppression. This adaptation highlighted how ahimsa not only resonates within Hinduism but also intersects with broader struggles for human rights, revealing its enduring relevance in an ever-changing world.

Related terms

Dharma: Dharma refers to the moral law combined with spiritual discipline that guides individual conduct and duties in life.

Karma: Karma is the law of cause and effect, which suggests that every action has consequences that affect one's future.

Satya: Satya means truthfulness and is considered one of the key virtues in Hindu ethics, closely linked to the practice of ahimsa.