ECOLOGICAL ETHICS OF ŚAIVISM: A SURVEY PAPER

Abstract

This paper proposes that moral and ethical values of ecology are rooted in the Hindū tradition, with a particular reference to Śaivism. Śiva is one of the most important deities in Hindūism. This paper, divided into four sub-titles, draws a conceptual framework to capture ecological values embedded in Shaivism. First, it explains how ecological ethics are linked to Indian spiritual culture, focusing on Shaivism. Second, Indian ecological wisdom is related to Indian philosophy focusing on Śaivism. Third, Śaivism, its ecological expression associated with the worship of Shīvā, indicates environmental harmony, and last, it explores the anthropogenic connection in an eco-ethical way.