Bhavatit Dhyan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bhavatit Dhyan" by Krishnakumar, based on the provided pages:

The text "Bhavatit Dhyan" (Transcendental Meditation) by Krishnakumar explores the profound benefits and accessibility of this meditation technique. It posits that the ultimate source of happiness and strength lies within the human being, waiting to be discovered through introspection. The author draws a parallel to a Vedic allegory where God deliberately withheld all happiness from humans at creation, emphasizing that true joy is attained through personal exploration and effort.

Krishnakumar highlights the convergence of science and spirituality, citing Swami Vivekananda's prediction that science and religion, poetry and philosophy will eventually unite. He believes that Acharya Shankar, Brahmananda Saraswati, and their disciple Maharishi Mahesh Yogi have fulfilled this prophecy through Transcendental Meditation (TM). The text notes that TM centers exist in 140 countries, offering instruction that leads to holistic development – physical, mental, and spiritual. It emphasizes the immense power within human consciousness, unlockable through meditation.

The article states that TM is taught by 12,000 teachers in 3,600 centers, inspired by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. TM is presented as a practice free from regional, sectarian, or national limitations, accessible to all seekers desiring profound joy. The text asserts that TM eradicates mental and physical weaknesses that cause suffering and vulnerability. While Maharishi Mahesh Yogi is credited with popularizing TM, the text acknowledges that its ancient roots are found in various traditional texts. The Bhagavad Gita is referenced, with Lord Krishna advising Arjuna in the battlefield of Kurukshetra: "Perform your duty, detached from the fruits of action, and remain steady in the performance of your duties, whether in success or failure. Such equanimity is yoga." (Bhagavad Gita 2-48).

Bhavatit Dhyan is described as a simple process for developing inner strengths, allowing practitioners to access an inexhaustible reservoir of power, knowledge, and bliss within themselves. It suggests a daily practice of sitting quietly for 15-20 minutes in the morning and evening without effort or preparation as a simple path to calming the mind, leading to Sattvic (pure) consciousness and benefits in all directions.

The text details the positive societal impacts of TM, including a reduction in crime rates. Individuals who were habitually ill have reportedly become disease-free, and those struggling with addiction, such as drinking and driving, have overcome their vices, leading to fewer accidents and fostering goodwill among people. The author reiterates that Maharishi Mahesh Yogi revived this ancient practice, significantly increasing public interest in it. Western scientists, recognizing the achievements and facts attributed to TM, have termed its effects the "Maharishi Effect."

The text enumerates the specific benefits of Bhavatit Dhyan:

1. Expansion of individual consciousness.
2. Development of creative and innovative intelligence.
3. Profound rest, leading to increased efficiency, energy, and vitality.
4. Enhancement of intellectual development and mental clarity.
5. Effective in treating various ailments such as blood pressure issues, heart problems, rheumatism, mental health conditions, allergies, asthma, insomnia, and general physical weakness.
6. Elimination of feelings of isolation, inferiority, or pessimism.
7. Freedom from worries.
8. Natural development of refined behavior without conscious effort.
9. Broadening of perspective.
10. Increased efficiency and productivity.
11. Complete physical, mental, and spiritual development.
12. Experience of inner happiness and peace of mind.
13. Attainment of self-bliss (Atmananda).

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi introduced "Consciousness Science" as a method to explain TM intellectually, and this science has been incorporated into university curricula. The text concludes with Sanskrit verses praising the practice and its ability to purify the minds of those afflicted by passions and negative tendencies, leading them towards equanimity and purity.