Final answer:
Ahimsa is an Indian philosophical principle advocating non-harm towards all beings and has critically influenced Indian history, notably through Mahatma Gandhi's use of satyagraha for nonviolent resistance against British rule. It's integral to various Indian religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ahimsa is a foundational principle in Indian philosophy that stresses the importance of refraining from harm to oneself and others. It is a key virtue in the doctrines of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, and it has played a significant role in shaping the historical and cultural perspectives of India. Ahimsa posits that all forms of violence towards living beings create negative karma, which binds the soul to the cycle of rebirth and suffering, as per the beliefs in karma and reincarnation.
Throughout history, ahimsa has been practiced to various degrees, with the Jains taking it to the extreme. Notably, the principle of ahimsa became globally recognized through the work of Mahatma Gandhi, who utilized it as an instrument for nonviolent civil disobedience to successfully challenge British colonial rule and achieve Indian independence. Gandhi's interpretation of ahimsa, termed satyagraha, was central to his philosophy and political strategy, emphasizing truth and love in opposition to injustice without resorting to violence.
Historical figures like Emperor Ashoka also exemplified the transition from violence to a commitment to ahimsa, after experiencing the horrors of war firsthand, leading him to embrace Buddhism and spread the message of peace and nonviolence.