Ahisma - practice of non-violence (Ghandi's Principle)
-not pacifism, but forcing change through non-violent means
The four noble truths say that there is suffering, which is caused by desire. Therefore, stop suffering through the daily practice of living according to the eight-fold path.
Through this formula, all problems can be solved:
Identify the problem, come up with a solution, break down the solution, and understand that it might be long term. Therefore, work away at it until you achieve your goal.
In the Jataka, the Buddha had given to rules for Good Government, known as 'Dasa Raja Dharma'.These ten rules can be applied even today by any government which wishes to rule the country peacefully. The rules are as follows:
1) be liberal and avoid selfishness,
2) maintain a high moral character,
3) be prepared to sacrifice one's own pleasure for the well-being of the subjects,
4) be honest and maintain absolute integrity,
5) be kind and gentle,
6) lead a simple life for the subjects to emulate,
7) be free from hatred of any kind,
8) exercise non-violence,
9) practise patience, and
10) respect public opinion to promote peace and harmony.
Regarding the behavior of rulers, He further advised:
- A good ruler should act impartially and should not be biased and discriminate between one particular group of subjects against another.
- A good ruler should not harbor any form of hatred against any of his subjects.
- A good ruler should show no fear whatsoever in the enforcement of the law, if it is justifiable.
- A good ruler must possess a clear understanding of the law to be enforced. It should not be enforced just because the ruler has the authority to enforce the law. It must be done in a reasonable manner and with common sense.
-- (Cakkavatti Sihananda Sutta)
The Buddhist teachings on non-enmity has to do with a tenet of the Buddhist faith that is fundamental, namely, peace and non-harm.
This means that all people are equal and should be treated equally. This is the way that compassion is demonstrated, which is the most fundamental teaching of Buddhism. This can be achieved first through meditation.
Politics in Sri Lanka
Authority figures utilize the Sangha. The government is the protector of the Buddhist religion. Each citizen has civic duties which can be carried out in accordance with the eight-fold path.
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