When an untoward action is committed either by oneself or by others, none shall through anger or excitement cut or mutilate one's limbs or limbs of other persons by means of any kind of weapon.
When an untoward action is committed either by oneself or by others, none shall through anger or excitement cut or mutilate one's limbs or limbs of other persons by means of any kind of weapon.
This is getting back to the Dharma of Ahimsa, the great duty of non-violence or non-injury. Often somebody may as an act of penance or as a way of nullifying sins (Prayaschit) committed, cut off or mutilate a part of their body. For example, in a state of anger and frustration somebody may decide to cut off their hands because they may have been the cause of some great sin such as murder. In such circumstance they should perform Prayaschit as suggested by Shastras or learned saints but never mutilate their body in this manner.
Lord Swaminarayan strictly forbids the action of mutilating oneself or others in any circumstance for it is the cause of sin and never a means of dissolving sin. It is written that to even think of harming or hurting another or to speak of such action is unacceptable, for the Dharma of Himsa should be obeyed in thought, speech and action always.
Shrimad Bhagwat says, ‘The Lord becomes greatly impressed and pleased by those who show compassion to all creatures. Those who perform great austerities do not derive such pleasure. Therefore shed the demonic nature which you possess and show compassion for all creatures. Doing so not only delights Lord Hari, but it comforts the whole world (bringing peace and harmony in the Universe).’
Never in a state of anger should Himsa be practised for anger is very destructive and losing control of oneself in this way can lead to foolish and arrogant behaviour. Even to say something threatening in a state of anger that you don’t really mean is unacceptable and so control of the tongue is imperative. Swami explains: Krodhasya Swakrutakhil Purnayanashitutvaditi Bhavaha - anger is the cause of destruction of all fruits of one’s labour (Punya). Madanratna explains, ‘Dana (devotion), Vrata (religious vows), Niyam (resolution), Gnaan (knowledge), Dhyana (meditation), Homa (sacrificial offerings) and Japa (chanting) are all futile and without fruits, if anger is present in a person.’
Lord Swaminarayan here gives the message that violence isn’t a means to an end. It solves nothing and that other solutions to resolve situations should be sought in all such case.