How a Jain aphorism can lead to a more meaningful life of sustainable co-existence on this planet
Dr. Palakh Jain | March 22, 2025
We live in a world which is characterised by “Parasparopagraho Jīvānām”. This is a Jain aphorism from Tattvarth Sutra, the most authoritative sacred text of Jains [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tattvartha_Sutra]. The aphorism has been accepted as the motto of Jainism. In simple English, it means that each soul in this Universe is rendering service to the another. It reinforces the concept of mutual support and interdependence across on living beings in this universe. Here, ‘living beings’ not only refer to humans and animals but even bacteria, which according to Jainism has a soul.
In earlier times, people had simple living and high thinking. The ancient wisdom of scriptures used to be imbibed by them with ease due to the way their brains were wired towards absorbing the essence and applying the same in their daily lives. With increase in consumerism, industrialisation the human mind has got entangled into problems which never existed before. The brains of today’s world do not think in the same structured manner as they did a few centuries back. The human mind has become more complicated than ever and this is evident in widespread mental illness, ecological disturbances and problems which cannot be seen with naked eyes. In this modern age, the aphorism of “Parasparopagraho Jīvānām” can act as a torchbearer. If one can apply this principle in real life in any way possible, the individual can live a more meaningful life of sustainable co-existence on this planet.
Here are suggestions for some applications of this aphorism for a common person that can guide them towards peace, a value considered most desirable by any organism on this planet:
At the level of body
Every action we do with our body has an effect as per the theory of karma. With our physical body, we pollute our environment in ways we cannot imagine – from noise pollution to dumping ocean with plastic and garbage, the story is endless. We should be aware that what we are giving out to Mother Nature when we put anything in the dustbin. Being aware can be the starting point of curbing the bad habits in coming future.
At the level of words
As per Jainism, words are also pudgala (matter). We must be mindful of our words. It is said that the least we can do if someone is in trouble is to give them “Abhay daan” of words, i.e., speak words which can free them of the fear gripping them.
At the level of mind
If we know our thoughts, though intangible, reach the other soul towards which they are directed to, we will start practising ‘self-restraint” of mind. This is very difficult to come by and requires daily practice to cultivate a habit. It is essential to have good and healthy thoughts which do not harm others.
[The image set with the text shows the cover of a translated and explanatory edition by Vijay K Jain]
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