The Relevance of Truth and Non-violence | Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj
The Relevance of Truth and Non-violence
“My religion is based on truth and non-violence. Truth is my God. Non-violence is the means of realizing Him.”
-Mahatma Gandhi
When you think of Mahatma Gandhi, two words come to mind instantly – truth and non-violence. He was a firm believer in these two ideals and used them as great tools during India’s struggle for independence.
But the question is, are such ideals still relevant in the modern world? Of course, they are. Before knowing how let’s understand the essence of these virtues.
The Essence of Truth & Non-violence
Know that the truth means the ‘truthfulness’ in words & deeds in all circumstances and also the ultimate truth which is God. Non-violence, on the other hand, implies self-sacrifice and selflessness. A wise person believes in both truth & nonviolence while having faith in the intrinsic goodness of human nature. The virtues are supreme to him, whatever the costs.
Adhering to them may appear to be simple but practicing them in day-to-day life could be quite difficult. It requires a great degree of commitment. And in difficult and testing circumstances of life, it becomes even more difficult.
Yet, realize that devotion to these virtues is the sole justification for human existence. So, your each activity should reflect its essence. There should be truth in your thought process; truth in action and truth in words. Realize them in their fullness, and nothing else would remain to be known by you since truth is the ultimate knowledge.
Keep practicing to apply this never-failing knowledge while finding out what is worth doing in life. A habit of practicing truth & violence leads you towards a successful life eventually wherein you live with peace, happiness and satisfaction. And that’s why all ancient religious texts, scriptures, institutions and Gurus accept only one existence on this planet and that is of God-the embodiment of truth and non-violence.
God is the Ultimate Truth
Truth also means God and to know about truth, you have to know God first. God represents a wise conscience, ethics, morality, and also fearlessness. He is the source of life and He blesses those who need His care, who are devoted and who have faith in Him.
Moreover, also know that all the human values of a just society are inspired by the divine principle of non-violence. And therefore, in almost every religion, the principle of non-violence has played a key role.
Such a strong emphasis on non-violence enables a seeker to understand that every living entity is a part of a supreme being. And therefore, whatever the sufferings, troubles and problems all are facing in their lives are also a part of other’s life. Understanding this reality and the sheer importance of life is the very beginning of the arrival of non-violence as a strict principle of life. And the pious virtue is also the highest means to attain the fundamental reality, i.e., Truth and God.
Hence people who believe in God and worship Him are strong believers of Truth and Non-violence.
Moreover, the concept of truth & non-violence are continuously changing according to the societal changes and the modem context.
Truth & Non-violence in the Digital Age
Nowadays a majority of people have an online life. They are into social media connections and the ecosystem is quite challenging so far as practicing truth and non-violence is concerned. Yet, it’s possible to adhere to them while interacting with people online.
Here’s how.
Have the strength to take negative comments from strangers positively and respond with practical understanding and calm. You might struggle to find common ground in an online talk yet if you try to create a space of understanding for someone who has other viewpoints, then you are moving on the right path where there is no space for any hatred and anger.
Just try not to focus on the person, focus on the issues and get involved in two-way positive communication without attacking the person. With your kindness and empathy, you can spread the message of truth and non-violence globally using this amazing platform. Of course, online platforms are full of people who are spreading wrong messages. Still, you may counter the wrong message without attacking the person. For that, use trolling as an opportunity to learn & grow amid challenges.
Undoubtedly, digital platforms offer a wonderful opportunity to spread the message of compassion, truth and non-violence universally. Use it that way. It has the competence to bring peace out of argument and agreement out of disagreement.
Non-violence
Believe that you are connected with the globe to act in the best interest of people and society as a whole, and when people are connected to each other, their capacity to support each other increases naturally. So, use this connection as a power. It’s always up to you to move your digital life in a positive direction and use it to support all with positive messages and noble deeds.
Hence, have a firm belief that truth and non-violence will always stay relevant. They were relevant in the ancient age, in the modern age and now in the digital age. So, never undermine them in your behavior. Practice them in your words, deeds, and actions. It will certainly make your nature soft and life peaceful.