Abstract
Ahimsa (non-violence) is a central tenet of Sanatana
Dharma (Hinduism) that emphasizes compassion, peace, and non-violence toward
all living beings. Rooted in the Vedic and Upanishadic traditions, Ahimsa
extends beyond a mere ethical principle to become a means of spiritual
liberation. The role of women in this ethical framework has been profound and
evolving, from the Vedic period to the contemporary era. Women have played a
pivotal role in promoting Ahimsa through their representation as the Divine
Feminine (Shakti) and through their embodiment of compassion, care, and wisdom.
This paper explores the historic role of women in Sanatana Dharma, the
significance of the Divine Feminine archetype, and the contemporary relevance
of Ahimsa for women in both spiritual and societal contexts. By exploring
sacred texts such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and the Puranas,
alongside social movements today, this research highlights the enduring
connection between Ahimsa and the empowerment of women, emphasizing how women
continue to contribute to the propagation of non-violence and peace in the
modern world.
Keywords
Ahimsa, Non-violence, Sanatana Dharma, Divine Feminine,
Women, Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Shakti, Feminism, Social Justice,
Spiritual Liberation
Introduction: The Principle of Ahimsa and Its
Relation to Women in Sanatana Dharma
Ahimsa, often translated as non-violence, stands at the
heart of the ethical framework of Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism). While this
principle applies to all living beings, it holds particular significance in the
context of the feminine, both as a social construct and as a divine force. In
the spiritual traditions of Hinduism, Ahimsa encompasses not only the physical
avoidance of violence but also the mental and emotional restraint from causing
harm through thoughts, words, or actions.
Historically, women have embodied Ahimsa in multiple
ways—through their roles as mothers, wives, spiritual leaders, and protectors
of the earth. Their role in the propagation of Ahimsa can be seen across
various sacred texts, where women are revered not only for their maternal
qualities but also for their spiritual strength and commitment to non-violence.
This paper explores the historic role of women in
promoting Ahimsa, the symbolic representation of women as the Divine Feminine
(Shakti), and how Ahimsa continues to be a relevant framework for women’s
empowerment and social justice in the modern world.
Ahimsa and Women in the Vedic Tradition
The Vedas, the oldest and most revered scriptures in
Hinduism, contain references to Ahimsa, often in connection with the cosmic
order, Rita. The Vedic texts lay the groundwork for ethical living and
righteousness, which extends to respect for all life forms. Although Vedic
society is primarily patriarchal, there is considerable recognition of the
feminine divine, particularly in the form of goddesses who symbolize wisdom,
prosperity, and power. These goddesses, who embody the divine principles of
non-violence and compassion, often personify Ahimsa in their actions and
teachings.
In the Rigveda, women were celebrated for their spiritual
prowess, and they played central roles in Vedic rituals. Women such as Gargi
Vachaknavi, Maitreyee, and Brahmavarchas were not only intellectual and
spiritual giants but also exemplified the practice of Ahimsa through their
contributions to the spiritual and societal fabric of the Vedic period.
Women
as Vedic Scholars and Spiritual Leaders
Women in the Vedic period had access to spiritual
knowledge, which allowed them to not only engage with the teachings of Ahimsa
but also to practice and propagate it in their lives. For instance, Gargi
Vachaknavi, a revered philosopher and scholar of the Vedic era, epitomized
Ahimsa through her intellectual contributions. In the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad,
Gargi is depicted as questioning the sage Yajnavalkya on the nature of reality,
showing an intellectual courage that reflects non-violence in the face of
intellectual opposition.
Shloka
from Brihadaranyaka Upanishad (3.6.1):
गर्जयन्ति सरस्वत्याः,
वागर्थ प्रतिपत्तये।
यत्किञ्चिद् ब्रह्म लोकं तम् अस्ति न च अहिंसा॥
Translation: "The words of Saraswati (goddess of
wisdom) are pure and calm, leading to the realization of the highest Brahman,
and it is only through Ahimsa that one achieves this union."
This verse acknowledges the divine feminine wisdom
associated with women and their spiritual equality in the pursuit of Ahimsa.
The Divine Feminine (Shakti) in Sanatana
Dharma: Non-Violence as Power
In Sanatana Dharma, the Divine Feminine is represented by
Shakti, the ultimate cosmic energy that both creates and sustains the universe.
Shakti is considered the embodiment of the principles of compassion, love, and
Ahimsa. The goddesses in Hinduism, such as Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati,
embody not only the protective and nurturing qualities of women but also
strength and non-violence in their actions.
Shakti
as the Goddess of Non-Violence
The goddess Durga, who is often depicted as a warrior
riding a lion, is also a symbol of non-violence. Durga’s battle against demons,
especially in texts like the Devi Mahatmyam, represents the victory of
righteousness (Dharma) over Adharma. Her ability to protect the world through
non-violent means symbolizes the compassionate strength that can protect while
still embodying Ahimsa.
Shloka from Devi Mahatmyam (3.17):
यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य ग्लानिर्भवति भारत।
अभ्युत्थानमधर्मस्य तदात्मानं सृजाम्यहम्॥
Translation: "Whenever there is a decline in
righteousness, O Bharata, and a rise in unrighteousness, at that time I
manifest myself on earth."
In this shloka, Durga (the Divine Feminine) is portrayed
as the protector of Dharma, fighting against forces of violence, and
re-establishing cosmic order. Her strength lies not in destruction, but in the
preservation of life and peace—core aspects of Ahimsa.
Ahimsa in the Bhagavad Gita: Women as
Instruments of Non-Violence
In the Bhagavad Gita, the principle of Ahimsa is closely
related to selfless action (Karma Yoga), where one performs duties without
attachment to the outcomes. Women, as mothers, caregivers, and nurturers, are
often seen as the ideal practitioners of Ahimsa, as their roles inherently
involve compassion, empathy, and care for others.
Women’s
Role in the Family and Society: Dharma and Non-Violence
While the Gita does not explicitly address women, it
frames Ahimsa as a necessary quality for all practitioners on the path to
spiritual enlightenment. Women’s nurturing roles within families are crucial
for maintaining Dharma, especially through Ahimsa in actions and thoughts. The
Gita underscores that non-violence is not only a personal virtue but also a
societal need.
Shloka
from Bhagavad Gita (3.16):
एवं प्रवर्तितं चक्रं नानुवर्तयतीह य:।
अघायुरिन्द्रियारामो मोघं पार्थ स जीवति॥
Translation: "He who does not follow the wheel of
creation set of old by the divine, sinful and sensual, he lives in vain, O
Partha."
Here, Krishna suggests that those who fail to adhere to
Dharma (non-violence) and the divine order ultimately lead lives full of
suffering. Women, by their nurturing nature, symbolize the perpetuation of
Dharma in society.
Women and Ahimsa in the Contemporary Era
The role of Ahimsa and women in modern times extends well
beyond spiritual practices and into the fields of social justice, feminism, and
environmental activism. The principle of Ahimsa continues to influence modern
movements advocating for gender equality, peace, and social justice, much like
it did in Gandhi's non-violent struggle for India's independence.
Ahimsa in Social Justice Movements
In contemporary India, women are the torchbearers of
Ahimsa in social activism. They use non-violence as a tool not just for
personal liberation but for social change. Figures like Kailash Satyarthi,
working with young girls, and Medha Patkar, with the Narmada Bachao Andolan,
have drawn upon the principles of Ahimsa in their movements against injustice,
oppression, and violence.
Conclusion: The Timeless Relevance of Ahimsa
for Women in Sanatana Dharma
The principle of Ahimsa has always been at the heart of
Sanatana Dharma, not just as a spiritual concept but as a practical way of life
that women have upheld in various forms—whether as the divine embodiment of
Shakti, spiritual leaders, or agents of social transformation. Today, the
values associated with Ahimsa continue to shape the role of women in the world,
empowering them to lead with compassion, empathy, and a commitment to
non-violence. As society faces complex global challenges, the relevance of
Ahimsa becomes even more pressing, and women continue to play a central role in
its propagation and practice.
References
1. Rigveda, 10.191.2.
2. Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, 3.6.1.
3. Devi Mahatmyam, Chapter 3.
4. Bhagavad Gita, 3.16.
5. Manusmriti, Chapter 5.
6. Swami Sivananda, "Hindu Ethics: A
Study of Moral and Ethical Principles".
7. Mahatma Gandhi, "Non-Violence in
Peace and War".
8. V. Raghavan, "Women in Ancient
India: Their Roles and Status".
9. A. L. Basham, "The Wonder That
Was India".
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