Wednesday, December 11, 2019

Book Review – Live and Let Others Live: Life Lessons from Mahavira

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There are so many books that we enjoy reading. Then, there are many books that leave within us a deep impact and stay within us for a long time. There are very few books that, once you finish reading, stir up an urge to buy a lot of copies and distribute to every one you know. If only I have the wherewithal, I would definitely buy as many copies of this book as possible and distribute to every other person I know and meet. Such a gem!

Bhagwan Mahavira does not need any introduction. Known widely as someone who revived the Jain religion, he was supposedly the contemporary of another noble soul, Gautama Buddha. Born 2500 years ago, his thoughts and ideals have stood the test of Time, shining all along. From inspiring the kings of early days to inspiring one of the greatest personas of the modern time, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the teachings of Bhagwan Mahavira have shone light on the path of righteousness and proper living to saints and simple householders alike.

His teachings of non-violence, tolerance for contrary viewpoints, equanimity in behaviour and equal treatment of all beings, along with his views on caring for the environment around us all set him apart from other religious founders / leaders. Reading this work, millennia after Mahavira first thought these thoughts, I find them as relevant today as they were then and they will be after even many more millennia.

For a long time I had been searching for a good work to begin learning about Jainism and Mahavira. In this book I have found the ideal beginning. Beautifully chosen thoughts and cohesively compiled chapters make this an authentic read. This is a book that you should read, read again and again and again. Worthy words of wisdom!

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