Noninjury

Sloka 66

What Is the Great Virtue Called Ahimsa?

Ahimsa means noninjury. It is the most important virtue in Hinduism. It is gentleness and nonviolence, whether physical, mental or emotional. It is not causing hurt or harm to all beings.

Sloka 67

What Is the Inner Source of Noninjury?

Two beliefs give us reasons to practice noninjury. The first is the law of karma. Any harm that we cause will always come back to us. The second is that God exists in all people and things.

Sloka 68

What Is the Inner Source of Violence?

Violence is an expression of the lower, instinctive nature, of fear, anger, greed, jealousy and hate. This is the world of separateness and opposites, like good and bad, winners and losers, mine and yours.

Sloka 69

Is Vegetarianism Part of Noninjury?

Hindus teach vegetarianism as a way to live so that we don't hurt other beings. When we consume meat, fish, fowl or eggs, we are participating indirectly in acts of cruelty and violence against the animal kingdom.

Sloka 70

How Can Peace on Earth Be Achieved?

Peace is an expression of spiritual consciousness. It begins within each person and extends to the home, neighborhood, nation and beyond. It comes when the higher nature takes charge of the lower nature.