Dwatrinshada Dwatrinshika Prakran Part 5 - Book Summary

The text you provided is the fifth part of a Jain work titled "Dwatrinshada Dwatrinshika Prakran" (द्वात्रिंशद् द्वात्रिंशिका प्रकरण) by Yashovijay Upadhyay and Yashovijay of Jayaghoshsuri, published by the Andheri Jain Sangh. This particular volume (Part 5) contains chapters 19 through i22, focusing on various aspects of Yoga and spiritual practice from a Jain philosophical and methodological perspective.

Here's a comprehensive summary based on the provided pages:

Overall Context:

Title: Dwatrinshada Dwatrinshika Prakran, Part 5.
Author(s): Yashovijay Upadhyay (also referred to as Muni Yashovijay), Yashovijay of Jayaghoshsuri (providing blessings).
Publisher: Andheri Gujarati Jain Sangh, Mumbai.
Nature of the Work: This is a commentary and elucidation on the "Dwatrinshat Dwatrinshika Prakran" (meaning "Thirty-Two Thirty-Two" – likely referring to 32 chapters, each with 32 verses or discussing 32 concepts), a significant Jain text primarily dealing with Yoga and Adhyatma (spirituality) within the framework of Navya Nyaya (New Logic).
Part 5 Focus: This volume specifically covers chapters 19 through 22, detailing concepts like Yoga Viveka, Yoga Avatar, Mitra Drishti, and Taraadi Traya Drishti.
Commentary: The text includes a Sanskrit commentary called "Nayalata" (नयलता) and a Gujarati explanation/commentary called "Dwatrinshika Prakash" (द्वात्रिंशिका प्रकाश). Muni Yashovijay is credited as the commentator for Nayalata and the interpreter for Dwatrinshika Prakash.
Significance: The text aims to make the profound and complex yogic and spiritual teachings of the original work accessible to a wider audience by using clear and understandable language, alongside scholarly Sanskrit explanations.

Summary of Chapters Covered (19-22):

Chapter 19: Yoga Viveka Dwatrinshika (योगविवेकद्वात्रिंशिका)
- Focus: This chapter delves into the discernment of Yoga, elaborating on the classification and significance of different types of Yoga.
- Key Concepts:
  - Three Types of Yoga: Ichha Yoga (योग, based on desire/inclination), Shastra Yoga (शास्त्रयोग, based on scriptures/rules), and Samarthya Yoga (सामर्थ्ययोग, based on inner strength/potential).
  - Ichha Yoga: Characterized by desire and adherence to prescribed practices, even if there are minor flaws due to carelessness or lack of complete adherence to scriptural injunctions. It's seen as a preliminary stage.
  - Shastra Yoga: Emphasizes strict adherence to scriptures, meticulous practice, and full observance of regulations. It's considered a more disciplined path.
  - Samarthya Yoga: This is described as a higher form of Yoga that transcends strict scriptural adherence due to the aspirant's innate spiritual strength and realization. It's often associated with Pratibha Jnana (intuitive knowledge).
  - The Importance of Intention: The text stresses that the purity of intention (nirvyaaja - without pretense or deception) is crucial for any practice to be considered true Yoga. Practices done with Maya (deception) are mere Yoga-abhas (imitation of Yoga).
  - Distinction between Taattvika and Ataattvika Yoga: Taattvika (real/essential) Yoga is directly related to liberation, while Ataattvika (unreal/superficial) Yoga is merely an imitation.
  - Dharma Sanyasa and Yoga Sanyasa: These are presented as two forms of Samarthya Yoga, relating to the renunciation of worldly attachments and the mastery over yogic practices respectively.
  - The Role of Repentance and Correction: The text highlights the importance of acknowledging and correcting mistakes in spiritual practice, showing humility and seeking guidance.
Chapter 20: Yoga Avatar Dwatrinshika (योगाऽवतारद्वात्रिंशिका)
- Focus: This chapter focuses on the "Avatar" (confluence/integration) of Yoga concepts from other philosophical schools, particularly Hinduism (Patanjali Yoga), into the Jain framework. It explains how different yogic states described in other traditions can be understood within Jain Adhyatma.
- Key Concepts:
  - Sampragnata and Asampragnata Samadhi: These are key concepts from Patanjali Yoga, describing conscious and superconscious states of concentration. The text explores their Jain equivalents and interpretations.
  - Four Types of Sampragnata Samadhi: Vitarka (with reasoning), Vichara (with contemplation), Ananda (with bliss), and Asmita (with ego-sense). The text analyzes these within Jain philosophy.
  - Nirvitarka, Nirvichara, Sananda, and Sasmita: Further distinctions and explanations of these Samadhi states are provided.
  - The Role of Mind and Consciousness: The interaction of mind, consciousness, and the subtle aspects of reality is discussed in relation to these yogic states.
  - The concept of "Avatara" (Integration): The primary aim is to show how Jain philosophy can accommodate and integrate these yogic ideas, demonstrating the universality of ultimate spiritual goals.
  - The Importance of Purity of Mind: The text emphasizes that while external practices might appear similar, the internal state of mind (purity, absence of desire, correct understanding) is what truly defines the yogic path.
Chapter 21: Mitra Drishti Dwatrinshika (मित्राद्वात्रिंशिका)
- Focus: This chapter details the "Mitra Drishti" (Friendly View/Perspective), which is described as the first stage of yogic insight or spiritual understanding. It focuses on the initial steps and qualities necessary for a spiritual aspirant.
- Key Concepts:
  - Mitra Drishti: Characterized by a nascent understanding of spiritual truths, a gentle inclination towards Dharma, and a growing sense of detachment from worldly pleasures.
  - Importance of Yama: The chapter emphasizes the importance of observing the Yamas (ethical restraints) like Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy/continence), and Aparigraha (non-possession).
  - Initial Stages of Practice: It describes the early practices and mental states of a budding yogi, including a basic understanding of ethical conduct and a gentle aspiration for spiritual knowledge.
  - The Role of Good Company (Satsanga): The importance of associating with virtuous individuals and learning from them is highlighted.
  - Distinguishing True from False: The text touches upon the need to discern between genuine spiritual aspiration and mere external show.
Chapter 22: Taraadi Traya Dwatrinshika (तारादि त्रयद्वात्रिंशिका)
- Focus: This chapter covers the next stages of yogic insight, following Mitra Drishti, namely Tara, Bala, and Dipta Drishti, and their associated practices.
- Key Concepts:
  - Tara Drishti: Described as slightly more developed than Mitra Drishti, with a clearer, though still limited, understanding of spiritual truths. It's compared to the embers of cow dung fire. Practices like Niyama (observances) like Shaucha (purity), Santosha (contentment), Swadhyaya (self-study), Tapa (austerity), and Ishvara Pranidhana (surrender to the divine) are discussed in relation to this stage.
  - Bala Drishti: This stage is characterized by a more firmly rooted understanding of Dharma, compared to the flame of a lamp. It signifies a stronger grasp of principles and the ability to maintain focus. Practices like Asana (posture) and Pranayama (breath control) are elaborated upon.
  - Dipta Drishti: This is a more advanced stage, likened to the light of a lamp, where the understanding becomes clearer and more potent. Pranaayama becomes more significant here, and the focus shifts towards controlling vital energies.
  - The Importance of Steadfastness and Purity: The chapters emphasize the progressive nature of spiritual practice, where initial stages lay the groundwork for deeper understanding and firmer commitment, leading to the eradication of obstacles and the attainment of higher states of consciousness.
  - Integration of External and Internal Practices: The text highlights how external disciplines (like righteous conduct) and internal focus (like mind control) work in tandem to achieve spiritual progress.

Overall Aim of the Commentary:

The commentary by Muni Yashovijay is a scholarly endeavor to elucidate the profound yogic and spiritual philosophy of Yashovijay Upadhyay. It aims to provide:

Clarity: To explain complex concepts in simple language.
Accuracy: To remain true to the original text and its scriptural basis.
Accessibility: To make these profound teachings available to those who might not have access to advanced Sanskrit philosophical texts.
Holistic Understanding: By drawing parallels and integrating concepts from other philosophical traditions (like Yoga Sutras, Buddhist texts, Vedic texts), it aims to provide a comprehensive view.

The publisher, Andheri Jain Sangh, is dedicated to promoting Jain literature and education, and this publication is a testament to that commitment. The book also includes indices of various scriptures cited in the commentary, demonstrating the author's vast erudition and the interdisciplinary nature of the work.