Jainism, nonviolence and Ecology

Christopher KEY CHAPPLE, historien des religions, Loyola Marymount University, California. The Jaina faith arose in India more than 2500 years ago. Jainism holds life in highest regard, positing that the soul is immortal and takes on countless forms, from a clod of dirt to celestial forms. Jainism teaches close adherence to code of nonviolence that benefits not only oneself but helps promote the protection of all life forms. This lifestyle that might prove instructional in light of current environmental concerns.