| In the first six Shlokas of Samanya Dharma, Lord Swaminarayan affirms
his stance upon the Law of Ahimsa (non-violence or non-injury). This
is indeed a great pillar of our Sanatan Hindu Dharma that should be
accepted by all.
Shatanand Muni informs us that man plunges in this ‘sea’ of worldly life, performing
a variety of actions in order to secure salvation (Moksha), the fourth
Purushartha, as this is understood to be man’s only reason or aim of
living. The fulfilment of such a quest is derived through observance of Ahimsa
Dharma.
Ahimsa Dharma is as big and majestic as Sanatan Dharma (the eternal
law) which is common for all. It is the very root of Hindu Dharma. It is
the basis of humanity and it’s deep message of compassion for all of God’s
creatures is the essence of the teachings of our great Rishis (enlightened
saints). Therefore a good grasp or understanding of the underlying principles
of Ahimsa is an important factor for all.
The Smrutis say, Na Himsyat Sarvabhutani - ‘Never kill
any living creature,’ which is exactly the message that Lord Swaminarayan
delivers in this first Shloka. Therefore Ahimsa is accepted in all popular
Shastras and is to be accepted by all in every rank of Hinduism. Indeed it
is a common Dharma which spreads to all people of all religion’s as most religions
endorse such a law of compassion.
The Shloka addresses the non-killing of all creatures no matter how great or
small they are from whales to fleas. No animal, bird, fish, insect or human
whatsoever should be killed or even harmed in anyway. This is the prime directive
for humans.
It is written that we commit sin by intentionally or even unintentionally killing
or harming a creature just as we are scolded by fire if we intentionally or
unintentionally go too close to it. However Apdurdhadharma explains,
‘A person who conforms to doing Prayaschit (intoning sins - righteous
actions to redeem sins) after unintentionally harming a creature will result
in the sin being lifted from such person.’ However no such redemption is
written for intentionally killing. Yagnavalkya Muni writes, ‘Sin without
knowledge (unintentional) can be lifted through Prayaschit, but Prayaschit
performed for intentional sin will lead to at most nothing more than of social
acceptance.’ Therefore you will then be accepted by society for the committing
of this intentional sin, after Prayaschit, but as Mitakshara says,
‘Prayaschit will never eradicate sins committed intentionally.’
It is said that two-fold Prayaschit should be observed for the committal of
intentional sin compared to committal of unintentional sin. Thus the sin
for committing intentional sin is far greater.
The great Shrimad Bhagwad further adds: ‘Those who inflict pain upon
God’s creatures are firmly consigned to Andhakupa Narak (a specific
infernal region). There, he is forced to endure great pain from various animals,
birds, snakes etc. as they bite and torment him.’ Shatanand concludes by
urging us to keep this in mind and to never harm any creature. Only such
course of action will offer us a place in the Heavens!
In this Shloka there has been a lot of discussion of Prayaschit (nullification)
of sins. Therefore let us study this aspect further. Our Puranas endorse
five methods of Prayaschit - the Panch Mahayagnas:
(1) Bhuta Yagna
- Refers to religious practices
such as Pooja, Dandvat, Seva, fasting etc. as a means of nullifying the sin.
(2) Atithi Yagna - This is service to a stranger or guest. To welcome
others, offer them food etc.
(3) Matru/Pithru Yagna - Service to ones parents or elders. Our ancient scriptures
speak of ‘Matru Devo Bhava - Pitru Deva Bhava.’ Thus one should serve one’s
parents as they would serve God.
(4) Brahman Yagna - The study of Vedas and other religious scriptures.
(5) Deva Yagna
- Involves Daan - donation of wealth
to God (via temples etc.) and Brahmins.
This is a brief outline of the various Prayaschits. However for correct and
suitable performance of Prayaschit, one should seek the advice of a Sadhu
or elder who will specify which course of action to take.
Lord Swaminarayan has adopted this great Dharma of Ahimsa that has been propounded
by our great Rishis. It is our duty to follow suite and forever be true to
its teachings and never violate it |
