April 20, 2025

Ahimsa: The Practice of Compassionate Living

15 minutes

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On this week's episode: Ahimsa

What is Ahimsa?
Ahimsa is often translated as non-violence or non-harming, but it extends far beyond physical harm. It is the practice of living in a way that minimises harm in thought, word, and action—toward ourselves, others, and the world around us.

Etymology of Ahimsa
A (अ) – Prefix meaning "not" or "absence of"
Himsa (हिंसा) – Harm, violence, or injury
Ahimsa (अहिंसा) – "The absence of harm" or "the practice of non-violence"

Ahimsa is not just about what we avoid, but what we cultivate—compassion, patience, and care.

Ahimsa in Thought

The way we speak to ourselves matters. Negative self-talk and judgment can be a form of violence.

Self-compassion is a powerful expression of non-harming.

Ahimsa in Words

Our speech holds power. Words can wound or heal.

Ask: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?

Ahimsa in Action

How we treat others, animals, and the Earth reflects our commitment to Ahimsa.

Everyday decisions—what we eat, how we shop, how we show up in relationship—are opportunities to choose compassion.

Practical Ways to Cultivate Ahimsa

Self-compassion practices and forgiveness.

Mindful and kind speech.

Conscious, ethical consumption.

Setting boundaries without aggression.

Honouring your body and energy in daily choices.

Textual Sources

Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (2.35)
"Ahimsā pratisthāyām tat sannidhau vaira-tyāgah."
Translation: "When one is firmly established in non-violence, hostility ceases in their presence."
(Source: Swami Satchidananda Commentary)

Bhagavad Gita (16.2)
"Ahimsa satyam akrodhas tyāgah shāntir apaishunam."
Translation: "Non-violence, truth, absence of anger, renunciation, peace, and kindness."
(Source: Eknath Easwaran Translation)

Final Thoughts
Ahimsa is not passive—it’s active love.
It’s fierce compassion.
It’s choosing to return, again and again, to kindness.

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