Q. What are the major teachings of Mahavir? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world.

Model Answer:

Major Teachings of Mahavir and Contemporary Relevance

Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, propounded ethical teachings that offer timeless solutions to modern moral and ecological challenges through principles of non-violence, truth, and spiritual discipline.

• Ahimsa (Non-violence): Complete avoidance of harm to all living beings in thought, word, and deed. Today, this principle guides environmental conservation (wildlife protection acts), conflict resolution (UN peacekeeping), and sustainable development initiatives addressing climate change.

• Satya (Truthfulness) and Asteya (Non-stealing): Speaking beneficial truth while avoiding appropriation of others’ property or ideas. These combat modern challenges like fake news, corporate fraud (Enron scandal), intellectual property theft, and promote transparency in governance (RTI Act).

• Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness): Minimizing material attachments and curbing consumerism. This teaching addresses inequality through ethical consumption, sustainable living (minimalist movement), and corporate social responsibility, countering the culture of excessive materialism.

• Brahmacharya (Self-control): Mastery over desires promoting mental tranquility. Essential for managing digital addiction (social media detox), stress management, and achieving work-life balance in our hyper-connected world.

• Anekantavada (Non-absolutism): Acknowledging multiple perspectives of truth. This doctrine fosters religious tolerance, diplomatic negotiations (India’s non-alignment), and helps manage diversity in multicultural democracies, countering polarization and extremism.

Conclusion: Mahavir’s teachings provide an ethical compass for navigating modern complexities toward peace, justice, and sustainability.