Definition

1. Noun:
   • The principle of non-violence and respect for all living beings: "ahimsa" is a core ethical doctrine in several Indian religions, particularly Jainism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. It advocates for causing no harm or injury to any living creature through thought, word, or deed.

Usage

• "Ahimsa" is used as an uncountable noun to describe the philosophical principle itself.
• It is often discussed in religious, ethical, and philosophical contexts concerning morality, diet (e.g., vegetarianism), and social conduct.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Gandhi's political strategy was deeply rooted in the concept of ahimsa.
  • Practicing ahimsa involves compassion towards all forms of life.

Advanced Usage

• "The vow of ahimsa": A solemn commitment to observe non-violence, common in Jain monasticism.

  • The monk took a strict vow of ahimsa, refusing to harm even the smallest insect.

• "Ahimsa in action": The practical application of non-violence in daily life or political movements.

  • His protest was a powerful example of ahimsa in action.

Variants and Related Words

• Non-violence (n): The practice of avoiding violence, often used synonymously with "ahimsa" in modern contexts, though "ahimsa" carries specific religious connotations.
  • The movement promoted non-violence as a means for social change.

Synonyms

• Non-injury: The act of not causing harm.
• Non-violence: The avoidance of violent action.

Related Concepts

• Compassion (n): Sympathetic concern for the sufferings of others, a sentiment aligned with ahimsa.
• Pacifism (n): The belief that war and violence are unjustifiable, sharing a common ground with the principle of ahimsa but often in a secular or political context.

Noun

1. a Buddhist and Hindu and especially Jainist doctrine holding that all forms of life are sacred and urging the avoidance of violence