Abhamandal - Book Summary | JainGPT

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Book Title: Abhamandal (आभामंडल) Author: Acharya Mahaprajna Publisher: Adarsh Sahitya Sangh

Core Concept: The Aura (Abhamandal) and its Connection to Inner State

The book "Abhamandal" by Acharya Mahaprajna explores the concept of the aura (Abhamandal) that surrounds the human body. This aura is described as a luminous circle of rays, resembling a web of subtle waves or a lattice of fine cotton fibers, extending in all directions around the body.

Key Principles and Ideas:

Dynamic and Reflective Nature of the Aura:
- The aura is not static; it constantly changes and fluctuates.
- Its structure is directly influenced by one's prevailing thoughts, emotions, and mental state (भावधारा - Bhavadhara).
- It reflects the inner purity or impurity, expansion or contraction of consciousness.
Connection to Inner States and Future Events:
- Changes in consciousness, as well as events occurring at the physical and mental levels, manifest first in the subtle body and then reflect on the aura.
- By studying the aura, it is possible to gain insights into future events, including health conditions, diseases, and even the time of death. It enables predictions about health, life, and death.
The Role of Bhavadhara (Mental Dispositions/Leshyas):
- The aura is fundamentally shaped by one's Bhavadhara, also referred to as Leshya (the subtle energetic states associated with emotions and intentions).
- Conversely, by altering the aura through Leshya-Dhyana (meditation on luminous colors), one can also change their Bhavadhara. This makes Leshya-Dhyana a crucial practice.
- The prevailing Bhavadhara influences one's thoughts, physical postures, gestures, and movements. For instance, a state of anger increases the likelihood of manifesting anger, while a state of forgiveness makes it easier to embody forgiveness.
Interconnection of Body, Mind, and Consciousness (Chitta):
- The book emphasizes the deep connection between the physical body (body), mind (man), and consciousness (chitta).
- The body and mind are considered material (pudgala), possessing qualities like color, smell, taste, and touch.
- Consciousness (Chitta) is non-material (apudgala) and therefore colorless.
- Despite their different natures, they mutually influence each other. Color, in particular, has a significant impact on consciousness.
The Aura as a Window to the Inner World:
- The mind's state is reflected in the aura. A pure mind results in a pure aura, and a polluted mind results in a polluted aura.
- The aura can be understood by observing the mind, and the mind can be understood by observing the aura.
The Importance of Subtle Perception and Inner Journey:
- The physical senses and intellect can only perceive the gross aspects of reality.
- To understand the subtle world and the aura, one must go beyond the senses, thoughts, and intellect, engaging in an inner journey. This involves closing the doors of the senses, mind, and intellect to perceive what lies within.
The Two Oceans Within: Sanklesha and Asanklesha:
- The text describes two powerful internal flows: Sanklesha (associated with negative emotions and impurity) and Asanklesha (associated with positive emotions and purity).
- These flows, powered by vital energy (Prana-shakti), influence thoughts, feelings, and actions.
- The "door" to Sanklesha opens with states of "murchha" (delusion or unconsciousness).
The Role of Will and Inner Streams:
- Despite not wanting to think, feel, or act negatively, individuals often find themselves doing so. This is attributed to the externalized flow of Sanklesha.
- When the flow of Asanklesha arises, positive thoughts and actions occur spontaneously.
- Ultimately, individuals are responsible for opening or closing the "doors" to these inner streams (Sanklesha and Asanklesha) through their choices and awareness.
Chabi (Key) to Inner Transformation:
- The book introduces the concept of keys ("chabi") to control these inner streams. "Murchha Ki Chabi" (key of delusion) opens the Sanklesha door, while "Jagriti Ki Chabi" (key of awakening) opens the Asanklesha door.
- Jagriti (awakening) has the dual function of opening the Asanklesha door and closing the Sanklesha door.
Practices for Awakening and Control:
- Shwas-Preksha (Awareness of Breath): This is fundamental for developing the key of awakening. Awareness of each breath leads to a conscious mind.
- Sharir-Preksha (Awareness of the Body): Awareness of the body allows one to gain control over the nervous system and its impulses.
- Leshyas and Color Meditation: Understanding and meditating on the different Leshyas (associated with colors) is highlighted as a powerful tool for changing one's inner state and, consequently, the aura.
The Three Arenas of Action: Mind, Speech, and Body:
- Acharya Mahaprajna discusses the concept of "Danda" (punishment or discipline) in relation to the mind, speech, and body, contrasting the views of Lord Mahavir (three Dandas) and Lord Buddha (one Danda - mind).
- He emphasizes that while the mind is crucial, the body's nervous system also plays a significant role in habit formation, and controlling these three aspects is essential for personal transformation.
Transforming Personality Through Inner Work:
- Personality transformation involves purification of emotions (Bhav Shuddhi), control over thoughts (Vichar Niyantran), and regulation of behavior (Vyavahar Niyantran).
- The key lies in focusing on the "Bhav Kendra" (emotional center) and purifying it, as it is influenced by both external and internal factors.
The Significance of Colors and Leshyas:
- The book details the significance of different colors associated with Leshyas (Krishna, Neel, Kapot, Tejo, Padma, Shukla) and their impact on physical health, emotions, and spiritual development.
- Meditating on colors, particularly "Tejo" (fire/red), "Padma" (lotus/yellow), and "Shukla" (white), is presented as a means to purify the inner state, transform personality, and strengthen the aura.
The Aura as a Protective Shield:
- A powerful aura, achieved through purified Leshyas and conscious energy direction, acts as a protective shield against negative external influences and "contagion" of thoughts.
The Interplay of External and Internal:
- The book highlights that external factors and inner states are interconnected. By purifying inner states, one can positively influence their interactions with the external world and even protect themselves from its negative impacts.

Overall Message:

"Abhamandal" by Acharya Mahaprajna is a profound exploration of the human aura as a dynamic reflection of one's inner world. It presents a practical and philosophical framework for understanding and transforming oneself through conscious control of thoughts, emotions, and energy, primarily through the practice of meditation, self-awareness, and the understanding of Leshyas and colors. The ultimate goal is to achieve a state of purity, power, and inner peace, leading to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.