Hindu value #5: rational non-violence that does not exclude the self
With the law of karma as one of its key guiding force, Hindu philosophy strongly recommends to "do unto others as you might have them do to you". Non-violence is a natural offshoot of this thinking. However, Hindu non-violence is very different from the non-violence at all cost as in Jainism, or as advocated by Gandhi. Hindu non-violence includes yourself. Therefore, if somebody attacks you, you are allowed to defend yourself without guilt. Neither is it considered wrong to use violence to protect people from a violent person, or to use violence to protect what is yours by law against a person who is violent and will not listen to reason. Excessive fasting, suicide, not taking care of the body, self-mutilation qualify as violence as well.
Hindu mythology is full of instances of Gods slaying demonic forces with utter disregard for their human rights. There is no concept of human rights for people who do not respect human rights for others. Even historically, taking the example of Mahabharata, Lord Krishna did everything possible to broker peace. But when Kauravas refused reason he had no hesitation in recommending war and winning it at every cost. In fact, for many years he counselled Pandavas to diligently prepare for war.
The message is clear. Peace is preferable to war, but peace of a weak person has no value. Therefore, even if one is peaceful, one should be well-prepared for war and be ready to fight against the wicked without mercy. Forgetting this simple lesson cost India years of subjugation. Remembering it will help us to get less conflicted and more effective in dealing with our enemies.
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