Ahimsa: A Brief Guide to Jainism

Jainism arose as a systematic response to human and animal violence by positing a radical alternative—the path of ahimsa or non-violence. Their argument is a simple but profound one. If we can lessen the pain and suffering of those around us why not choose that option instead of needlessly perpetuating the never-ending cycle of violent retribution. Jainism raises a most pregnant question for all of us: how big is our circle of compassion?