Bhartiya Yog Parampara Aur Gnanarnav

The book "Bhartiya Yog Parampara aur Gnanarnav" by Rajendra Jain is a comprehensive exploration of the Indian Yoga tradition with a specific focus on the Jain perspective and the text "Gnanarnav" (also known as "Yogarnav"). The book aims to highlight the profound connection between Jainism and the broader Indian yoga heritage, emphasizing that yoga, particularly in its meditative aspects, has deep roots in Jain philosophy and practice.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and content covered in the book, based on the provided text:

1. Indian Yoga Tradition and its Jain Roots:

• Yoga as an Ancient Indian Heritage: The book asserts that yoga is an intrinsic and ancient part of Indian culture, transcending sectarian boundaries. It is presented as a universal spiritual discipline accessible to all, regardless of caste, creed, or religion.
• Lord Rishabhadeva as the Originator of Yoga: A central argument of the book is that the first Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhadeva, is the original proponent of yoga in India. The text draws parallels between Rishabhadeva and Vedic figures like Hiranyagarbha, suggesting they represent the same original source of yogic knowledge.
• Jain Contributions to Yoga: The book emphasizes that Jainism has a rich and extensive tradition of yoga, with numerous Jain acharyas contributing significantly to its development. The author highlights that the Jain path to liberation (Moksha) is inherently a yogic path, involving practices like Samvara (restraint of influx of karma) and Nirjara (shedding of karma), which are integral to yoga.
• Yoga in Jain Scriptures: The text delves into various Jain scriptures and texts that describe yogic practices, postures (asanas), meditation (Dhyana), and the philosophy behind them. It cites examples from Kundakundacharya's Yogibhaktia, Muni Pratikramana, Ratnasar, and others to illustrate the presence and importance of yoga in Jainism.
• Historical Context of Yoga: The book touches upon the historical evolution of yoga, discussing its presence in Vedic literature, Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, Puranas, and its influence on Buddhist traditions. It also briefly mentions the impact of later developments like Tantra and Hatha Yoga.

2. "Gnanarnav" (Yogarnav) - A Pinnacle of Jain Yoga:

• Significance of Gnanarnav: The book focuses on "Gnanarnav," a prominent Jain text on spiritual meditation and yoga, authored by Acharya Shubhachandra. It is described as a comprehensive repository of yogic knowledge, offering profound insights into the path of meditation for spiritual seekers.
• Relevance of Gnanarnav in Modern Times: The text's emphasis on the causes and obstacles in the path of spiritual practice, presented with clarity and depth, is highlighted as being highly relevant even today, especially in the context of modern stressful lifestyles.
• Content of Gnanarnav: The book outlines the structure and key teachings of Gnanarnav, including:
  • The Four Purusharthas: Discussing the four aims of human life (Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha), with Moksha being the ultimate and eternal goal.
  • Types of Dhyana (Meditation): Elaborating on the classification of meditation into Shubha (auspicious), Ashubha (inauspicious), and Shuddha (pure) yoga. It details the causes and consequences of each type, particularly focusing on how Ashubha Dhyana leads to suffering and cycles of rebirth, while Shubha and Shuddha Dhyana lead to liberation.
  • Dhyana's Process and Aids: Exploring the intricate process of meditation, including the importance of introspection, controlling the senses and mind, the role of twelve Bhavanas (contemplations), controlling passions (Kashaya), achieving equanimity, and the significance of a suitable place for meditation.
  • The Eight Limbs of Yoga: Discussing the integration of yogic principles, including Yamas, Niyamas, Asanas, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi, within the Jain framework. The text highlights how these are often encompassed within the Jain concept of Ratnatraya (Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct).
  • Specific Asanas and Pranayama: Mentioning Kayotsarga and Paryankasana as important postures for meditation and discussing the role of Pranayama in achieving mental concentration.
  • The Four Types of Dhyana: Detailing the four types of Dhyana: Arta (sorrowful), Raudra (fierce), Dharma (righteous), and Shukla (pure). It explains their nature, the types of beings who practice them, and their respective outcomes.
  • The Four Stages of Pindastha, Padmastha, Rupastha, and Rupatita Dhyana: Providing a detailed analysis of these stages of meditation, with a particular focus on the methodical progression from the gross to the subtle and ultimately to the formless.
  • The Role of Bhavanas (Contemplations): Explaining the twelve Bhavanas (Anitya, Anasharana, Sansara, Ekattva, Anyatva, Ashuchi, Asrava, Samvara, Nirjara, Dharma, Loka, Bodhi-durlabha) as crucial aids for purifying the mind and achieving meditative states.
  • The Significance of the Five Samitis and Three Guptis: Discussing these essential ethical principles in Jainism as they relate to controlling actions and leading a yogic life.

3. Author's Perspective and Research:

• Dedication and Acknowledgements: The book reflects the author's deep research and dedication to the subject, involving extensive study of manuscripts and consultations with scholars. The preface and acknowledgements reveal the author's personal journey and the support received.
• Scholarly Approach: The book is structured into eight chapters, providing a systematic analysis of the topic. It includes comparative studies with other traditions like Vedic and Buddhist yoga.
• Language and Style: The author aims to present complex yogic concepts in a simple, clear, and accessible language, making it beneficial for both researchers and general readers.

In essence, "Bhartiya Yog Parampara aur Gnanarnav" is a scholarly work that bridges the gap between the broader Indian Yoga tradition and its significant, yet often overlooked, contributions within Jain philosophy. It underscores the profound spiritual depth and practical relevance of Jain yoga practices, particularly through the lens of the "Gnanarnav," offering a valuable resource for understanding yoga from a Jain perspective.