The Sanskrit verse “Himsā na kurvataḥ svasthyam śivāya cha vidhīyate” (Padma Purana 1.31.27) can be translated as:
“Non-violence leads to health and contributes to universal well-being.”
This profound teaching emphasises the principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) as a cornerstone for personal health (svasthyam) and collective harmony (shivāya). The verse aligns with the Vedic worldview, which sees the interconnectedness of all living beings and stresses that avoiding harm promotes balance within individuals, societies, and the cosmos.
1. Breaking Down the Verse
Key Terms
1. Himsā: Violence or harm, whether physical, verbal, or mental, inflicted on any living being.
2. Na kurvataḥ: Not engaging in; refraining from.
3. Svasthyam: Health or well-being; a state of balance in body, mind, and soul.
4. Śivāya: Refers to auspiciousness, welfare, or the greater good.
5. Vidhīyate: Leads to or contributes to.
Interpretation
The verse suggests that abstaining from violence not only promotes personal health but also creates an environment of peace and well-being for all. Non-violence is portrayed as both a physical and spiritual practice that uplifts the individual and society.
2. The Principle of Ahimsa in Indian Philosophy
Ahimsa in the Vedas and Puranas
The Vedic and Puranic texts repeatedly emphasise Ahimsa as a universal value. It is considered the highest form of Dharma (righteousness) and a fundamental principle for maintaining harmony in the world.
• Mahabharata (Shanti Parva 262.5): “Ahimsa paramo dharmaḥ” (Non-violence is the highest virtue).
• Padma Purana expands this by linking Ahimsa with health and cosmic well-being.
Ahimsa in Practice
Ahimsa extends beyond refraining from physical harm to include thoughts and words. For example:
• Physical Ahimsa: Avoiding acts like killing animals or harming the environment.
• Mental Ahimsa: Cultivating compassion and avoiding hatred or jealousy.
• Verbal Ahimsa: Speaking kindly and truthfully without causing harm.
3. The Connection Between Non-Violence and Health
3.1 Physical Health
• Plant-Based Diets and Ahimsa: Non-violence often implies a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. Studies show that plant-based diets:
• Reduce risks of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
• Provide essential nutrients while being sustainable and cruelty-free.
• Promote longevity, as seen in communities practicing Ahimsa like the Jains and followers of Vaishnavism.
• Stress Reduction: Acts of violence, even subtle ones, create stress in the body and mind. Refraining from violence fosters calmness and reduces cortisol levels, enhancing overall health.
3.2 Mental and Emotional Health
• Compassion Cultivates Happiness: Non-violence promotes compassion, which has been shown to increase feelings of joy and satisfaction.
• Avoidance of Guilt and Regret: People who harm others often experience guilt or regret, leading to mental unrest. Ahimsa ensures a clear conscience.
3.3 Spiritual Health
• Alignment with Universal Laws: Non-violence aligns individuals with Dharma, promoting spiritual growth and inner peace.
• Chitta Shuddhi (Purification of Mind): Practicing Ahimsa cleanses the mind, making it more receptive to higher truths and spiritual awakening.
4. Non-Violence and Societal Well-Being
4.1 Social Harmony
• Ahimsa Prevents Conflicts: A society that upholds non-violence minimises conflicts, fostering unity and cooperation.
• Empathy and Community Bonds: Kindness and non-harm strengthen social ties, creating a more supportive and harmonious community.
4.2 Environmental Protection
• Sustainable Living: Non-violence extends to the environment. Practices like reducing meat consumption and protecting biodiversity promote ecological balance.
• Global Impact: Adopting Ahimsa daily can mitigate climate change and reduce deforestation, benefiting the planet and future generations.
5. Modern Science Validating the Principle
Plant-Based Diets and Non-Violence
• Studies from institutions like Harvard Medical School show that plant-based diets reduce inflammation, improve cardiovascular health, and promote longevity.
• The Blue Zones Project, which studies the world’s longest-living communities, highlights the health benefits of vegetarian diets rooted in Ahimsa.
Kindness and Mental Health
• Research in psychology shows that acts of kindness release oxytocin, the “love hormone,” which lowers blood pressure and fosters emotional well-being.
6. Ahimsa as a Path to Universal Well-Being
Śivāya: The Greater Good
Non-violence ensures harmony not just for humans but for all living beings. The interconnectedness of life means that the well-being of one species contributes to the well-being of all.
Examples from Nature
1. Bee Conservation: Protecting bees (a non-violent act) ensures pollination and the survival of ecosystems.
2. Reducing Meat Consumption: This alleviates animal suffering and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, benefiting the planet.
7. Practical Applications of the Verse
7.1 Individual Level
1. Dietary Choices: Adopt a cruelty-free, plant-based diet.
2. Mindfulness: Avoid harmful thoughts and cultivate compassion.
3. Minimalism: Consume resources mindfully, reducing harm to the environment.
7.2 Community Level
1. Promoting Vegetarianism: Encourage sustainable food habits.
2. Conflict Resolution: Use non-violent communication techniques.
3. Environmental Activism: Protect forests, rivers, and wildlife.
7.3 Global Level
1. Policies of Non-Violence: Governments can adopt Ahimsa-inspired policies, like banning animal cruelty and promoting renewable energy.
2. Education: Teach children the value of kindness and respect for all life forms.
8. Alignment with Other Scriptures
Bhagavad Gita
“Adveshta sarva-bhutanam maitraḥ karuna eva cha” (Gita 12.13)
Translation: “The one who does not hate any being, who is friendly and compassionate, is dear to the Divine.”
Manusmriti
“Ahimsa satyam asteyam shaucham indriya-nigrahaḥ” (Manusmriti 10.63)
Translation: “Non-violence, truth, non-stealing, purity, and control over senses are virtues to be cultivated.”
Both stress that non-violence is integral to personal and social development.
9. Stories Illustrating the Principle
King Ashoka’s Transformation
After witnessing the destruction caused by the Kalinga War, King Ashoka adopted the path of Ahimsa. His embrace of non-violence not only brought peace to his kingdom but also inspired generations.
The Cowherd and the Snake (Padma Purana)
In the Padma Purana, a cowherd spares a venomous snake instead of killing it. The snake later saves him from harm, demonstrating the reciprocal benefits of Ahimsa.
10. Conclusion
The verse “Himsā na kurvataḥ svasthyam śivāya cha vidhīyate” from the Padma Purana is a timeless reminder of the transformative power of non-violence. By refraining from harm, individuals cultivate physical health, emotional well-being, and spiritual growth, while contributing to societal harmony and environmental sustainability.
Practicing Ahimsa is not merely abstaining from violence but actively nurturing compassion, mindfulness, and respect for all life. This alignment with nature and universal laws ensures not only personal happiness but also collective prosperity, making Ahimsa the foundation of a balanced and harmonious world.
Give a Reply