Jain Sadhna Paddhati Me Dhyana Yoga

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Sadhna Paddhati me Dhyana Yoga" by Sadhvi Priyadarshanshreeji.

The book is a doctoral dissertation from Pune University, published by Ratna Jain Pustakalaya in 1991. It delves into the concept and practice of meditation (Dhyana Yoga) within the broader framework of Jain Sadhana (spiritual discipline).

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and content, chapter by chapter, based on the provided text:

Overall Purpose and Context:

• The book aims to fill a gap in Jain literature by systematically analyzing and presenting the concept of meditation as found in Jain scriptures.
• It emphasizes the importance of meditation for inner peace and spiritual development, particularly relevant in the context of modern-day instability and stress.
• The work is dedicated to the spiritual inspiration of Acharya Anandrishi Ji Maharaj.

Key Sections and Themes:

1. Foreword/Introduction (Page 5-10):

   • Acarya Anandrishi Ji Maharaj commends the work for its timely relevance and the need to assess ancient Indian values in the modern scientific context. He praises Sadhvi Priyadarshanaji for her scholarly approach.
   • The book acknowledges the Chopda family, particularly Shri Sampatlal Chopda and his daughter Km. Vinodini, for their financial support, and also mentions the author's parents, Late Shri Chandmalji Chopda and Late Smt. Pyaribai Chopda, who embraced Santhara (voluntary fasting unto death) as a part of their spiritual journey.

2. Examiners' Reports (Page 13-14):

   • Dr. A.D. Batra (Thesis Director) praises Sadhvi Priyadarshanaji's thesis for its exhaustive and systematic treatment of Dhyana in Jain Sadhana, highlighting her practical experience and scholarly approach. He recommends awarding the Ph.D. degree.
   • Dr. Kamal Chand Sogani acknowledges the thesis as an authentic document on Dhyana, covering all its aspects from a Jain perspective, and suggests its publication. He notes the lucidity of expression and the useful glossary.
   • Prof. Sagarmal Jain acknowledges the thesis's vast scope, covering not just Dhyana Yoga but the entire Jain Sadhana methodology. While appreciating the effort, he suggests a more focused approach on texts directly related to meditation and comparative analysis with other traditions to enhance its scholarly value. He still recommends the Ph.D. award.

3. Publisher's Note (Page 15-17):

   • The publisher highlights Acharya Anandrishi Ji Maharaj's dedication to knowledge dissemination through study, teaching, and publication. It recognizes the author's diligence, supported by her gurus and spiritual lineage, in completing this significant research work.
   • It also details the financial contribution by the Chopda family and the publication efforts of Pradip Munot and Prabhat Printing Works.

4. Table of Contents (Page 18-20):

   • The book is structured into six chapters, with a summary and appendices. The chapters cover:
     • Chapter 1: The Nature of Sadhana in the Tradition of Meditation: Discusses meditation practices across Indian traditions, including Hindu (Mantra, Laya, Hatha, Raja Yoga), Buddhist, and Jain methodologies, as well as non-Indian spiritual practices.
     • Chapter 2: Jain Literature Related to Meditation Sadhana: Explores the vast Jain literature, including Agamic texts (Angas, Upangas, Chhed Sutras), commentaries (Niyukti, Bhashya, Churni, Teeka), and post-Agamic literature, with a focus on their relevance to meditation.
     • Chapter 3: The Nature of Jain Sadhana and the Importance of Meditation within it: Explains Jain Sadhana principles, including karma theory, soul's nature, the relationship between soul and karma, and the stages of spiritual progress, emphasizing meditation's role.
     • Chapter 4: The Nature of Meditation in Jainism: Delves into the meaning, psychological aspects, goals, and broader framework of Dhyana Yoga from a Jain perspective, comparing it with other yogic traditions.
     • Chapter 5: Various Types of Meditation: Classifies and describes different types of meditation mentioned in Jain literature, such as Artadhyana, Raudradhyana, Dharmadhyana, Shukladhyana, and also Pindastha, Padmastha, Rupastha, and Rupatita Dhyana.
     • Chapter 6: Evaluation of Meditation: Discusses the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of meditation, including yogic siddhis (supernatural powers).
   • Appendices: Include diagrams related to meditation, a glossary of technical terms, and a bibliography.

5. Detailed Chapter Summaries (Page 21-189 onwards):

   • Chapter 1: The Nature of Sadhana in the Tradition of Meditation:

     • Indian Sadhana: Explores the ancient origins of meditation in India, referencing findings from Mohenjo-daro and Harappa. It highlights the prevalence of meditation over ritualistic paths.
     • Dhyana in Vedic and Shraman Traditions: Discusses the significance of meditation in Upanishadic and Shraman traditions, mentioning figures like Ramputta, who influenced Buddha.
     • Jainism and Dhyana: Establishes the deep-rooted connection of Dhyana in Jainism, evident from the constant meditation posture of Tirthankara images. It outlines the daily practices of Jain monks involving meditation.
     • Need for Meditation: Explains meditation as a means to overcome the inherent restlessness of the mind, alleviate suffering (stress, anxiety), and achieve inner peace (Samadhi/Samayika).
     • Process of Meditation: Defines meditation as 'chitta-nirodha' (cessation of mental fluctuations) and highlights the importance of 'abhyasa' (practice) and 'vairagya' (detachment) in controlling the mind, drawing parallels with the Bhagavad Gita and Jain scriptures.
     • Benefits of Meditation: Discusses the traditional and practical benefits, including spiritual purification, mental peace, and even physical well-being, citing texts like Dhyana Shatak.
     • Meditation as Self-Realization: Emphasizes meditation as the art of self-realization, a journey from "Who am I?" to "I am that."
     • Meditation and Samadhi/Yoga: Clarifies the relationship between meditation, samadhi, and yoga, often used interchangeably, with meditation being the means to achieve the ultimate state of samadhi or union.
     • Meditation and Kayotsarga: Explains Kayotsarga (body abandonment) as a practice closely linked to meditation, aimed at detachment from the body.
     • States of Mind: Discusses various states of mind as described in Jain, Buddhist, and Yoga philosophies (Vikshipta, Yatayat, Shlishta, Sulina in Jainism) and their relationship to meditation.
     • General Meaning of Meditation: Defines meditation as the concentration of consciousness on a single point or subject.
     • Types of Meditation in Jainism: Introduces the classification of meditation into four types: Artadhyana (meditation on suffering), Raudradhyana (meditation on cruel actions), Dharmadhyana (meditation on Dharma/righteousness), and Shukladhyana (pure meditation).
     • Jain Definitions of Meditation: Explores how Jain acharyas define meditation as stabilizing mental states and achieving concentration.
     • Field and Posture for Meditation: Discusses the ideal environment and postures for meditation, emphasizing cleanliness and peace.
     • Time and Duration of Meditation: Touches upon suitable times and the duration of meditation practice.
     • Body Structure and Meditation: Links the physical body's strength and structure to the ability to meditate effectively.
     • Who is Eligible for Meditation?: Discusses the qualifications for meditation, distinguishing between general meditation and higher forms of meditation like Dharmadhyana and Shukladhyana.
     • Meditation and Asceticism vs. Householder life: Explores whether meditation is more feasible for ascetics or householders, acknowledging the challenges and possibilities for both.
     • Evolution of Meditation Types: Highlights how meditation practices evolved, with later texts introducing classifications like Pindastha, Padmastha, Rupastha, and Rupatita Dhyana, often influenced by other Indian traditions.
     • Historical Context of Jain Meditation: Traces the history of meditation in Jainism from Lord Mahavir's time, noting the presence of practices like Vipassana and the influence of figures like Ramputta.
     • Six Daily Obligations (Shat-Avashyak) and Meditation: Explains how Kayotsarga, a part of the six daily obligations, is intrinsically linked to meditation.
     • Theological Impact on Meditation: Notes the shift in focus from pure spiritual purification in the Agamic era to the inclusion of Rddhis (supernatural powers) in the medieval period, which sometimes led to the perception that higher forms of meditation were unattainable in the current era.
     • Modern Trends in Meditation: Discusses the resurgence of meditation practices like Vipassana and Preksha Dhyana, acknowledging their integration with psychology and physiology and the influence of figures like Acharya Mahapragya.
     • Global Interest in Meditation: Notes the increasing interest in yoga and meditation, particularly in Western countries, driven by the need to alleviate stress and find inner peace.
     • Research on Meditation: Highlights the growing academic research on yoga and meditation, including specific studies on Jain yoga.
     • The Book's Contribution: Reaffirms the book's objective of presenting a comprehensive overview of Jain meditation traditions.

   • Chapter 2: Jain Literature Related to Meditation Sadhana:

     • Classification of Jain Literature: Divides Jain literature into fundamental Agamic texts and explanatory Agamic literature (Niyukti, Bhashya, Churni, Teeka), as well as post-Agamic literature.
     • Agamas: Explains the significance of Agamas as the teachings of Lord Mahavir, their compilation, and classification into Angas (12) and Upangas, as well as Mool Sutras and Chhed Sutras. It details the structure and content of various Angas relevant to meditation.
     • Commentaries: Discusses the importance of Niyuktis, Bhashyas, Churnis, and Teekas in explaining the Agamas and their contributions to understanding meditation practices.
     • Post-Agamic Literature: Mentions important authors like Kundakunda, Umaswati, Haribhadra, Gunabhadra, Hemachandra, Yashovijaya, and their contributions to the philosophical and practical aspects of meditation.
     • The Role of Literature: Underscores the importance of this vast body of literature for understanding the nuances of Jain meditation.

   • Chapter 3: The Nature of Jain Sadhana and the Importance of Meditation within it:

     • Karma Theory: Explains the central role of karma theory in Jainism as the foundation for understanding the soul's journey and the various states of existence. It describes karma as subtle, invisible, and binding particles influenced by soul's passions (rag-dwesh).
     • Soul's Nature: Describes the soul (Jiva/Atma) as inherently pure consciousness and bliss, but obscured by karma. It outlines the soul's different states: Bahiratma (external focus), Antaratma (internal focus), and Paramatma (liberated soul).
     • Stages of Spiritual Progress: Mentions the concept of fourteen Gunasthanas (stages of spiritual development) as a framework for understanding the soul's journey and the progressive refinement of consciousness, which is crucial for meditation.
     • Vighnas (Obstacles) in Sadhana: Identifies key obstacles like Pramada (negligence), Moha (delusion), attachment, and various desires, emphasizing their role in hindering spiritual progress and the need to overcome them through meditation and other disciplines.
     • Supporting Elements for Sadhana: Highlights the role of essential elements like Guru's guidance, faith, self-confidence, and determination in the spiritual journey.
     • Trividha Sadhana: Explains the three core aspects of Jain spiritual practice: Samyagdarshana (Right Faith), Samyagjnana (Right Knowledge), and Samyakcharitra (Right Conduct), and how meditation aids in their development.
     • Tapas (Asceticism) and Meditation: Links tapas (austerities) to meditation as a means of soul purification and the eventual attainment of liberation.
     • The Goal of Spiritual Sadhana: Reaffirms that the ultimate goal is the realization and liberation of the soul (Moksha), which is achievable through the disciplined practice of Dhyana Yoga.

   • Chapter 4: The Nature of Meditation in Jainism:

     • General and Specific Meaning of Meditation: Defines meditation broadly as thought or concentration, and specifically within Jainism as a means to achieve inner peace and self-realization.
     • Etymology of Dhyana and Yoga: Explores the linguistic roots of "Dhyana" and "Yoga" and their interconnectedness in Jain philosophy, highlighting yoga as the union with the pure soul.
     • Psychological Aspect of Meditation: Discusses the mind's nature, its restlessness, and how meditation helps in controlling and focusing it. It relates to modern psychological concepts of consciousness and mental states.
     • Jain Perspective on Dhyana Yoga: Outlines the Jain understanding of Dhyana Yoga, emphasizing its role in overcoming passions and achieving equanimity.
     • Broad Framework of Dhyana Yoga: Places Dhyana Yoga within the context of Jain principles like ethical conduct, knowledge, and spiritual discipline.
     • Sources of Meditation: Discusses the importance of literature and the role of a Guru in guiding the meditation process.
     • The Four Types of Meditation: Introduces the core Jain classification of meditation into Artadhyana (meditation on suffering), Raudradhyana (meditation on cruel actions), Dharmadhyana (meditation on righteousness), and Shukladhyana (pure meditation). It elaborates on their nature and effects.
     • Jain Definitions of Meditation: Provides specific definitions from Jain texts, such as 'chitta-nirodha' (cessation of mental fluctuations) and concentration on a single object.
     • Field and Posture: Discusses the importance of a suitable place and posture for meditation.
     • Time and Duration: Briefly touches upon the timing and duration of meditation.
     • Body Structure and Meditation: Explains the connection between physical well-being and meditation.
     • Eligibility for Meditation: Discusses who can practice meditation, noting that while all living beings experience some form of mental activity (even if negative), higher forms of meditation are accessible to those with developed spiritual consciousness.
     • Comparisons with Other Traditions: Briefly mentions the influence and comparison with yogic practices from other Indian traditions.
     • The Role of Mind: Emphasizes the mind as the central focus of meditation, its inherent restlessness, and the need for its control through various techniques.
     • Levels of Mental Awareness: Describes different states of mind that meditation aims to transcend or refine.
     • Psychological Perspective: Integrates psychological concepts to explain how meditation helps in managing mental states and achieving peace.
     • Jain Concepts like Karma and Soul: Integrates the understanding of Jain concepts like karma, soul, and the path to liberation as the context for meditation.

   • Chapter 5: Various Types of Meditation:

     • Classification: Details the classification of meditation into four main types:
       • Artadhyana: Meditation driven by pain, suffering, or unmet desires.
       • Raudradhyana: Meditation driven by anger, cruelty, and malice.
       • Dharmadhyana: Meditation focused on righteous principles, virtues, and scriptural wisdom. It outlines its four sub-types: Agmavichaya (contemplation of scriptures), Apayavichaya (contemplation on the causes of suffering and their remedies), Vipaka-vichaya (contemplation on the fruits of karma), and Sansthana-vichaya (contemplation on the structure of the universe).
       • Shukladhyana: Pure, transcendental meditation, achieved through the progressive shedding of karmic impurities, leading to higher spiritual states. It is further divided into four stages (Pruthaktva-vitarka-savichara, Ekattva-vitarka-avichara, Sukshma-kriya-apratipati, and Sammuchinna-kriya-apratipati), culminating in omniscience and liberation.
     • Detailed Description: Provides in-depth explanations of the nature, characteristics, and objectives of each type of meditation, drawing heavily from Jain scriptures.
     • Comparative Analysis: Briefly touches upon the manifestations of similar meditative states in Buddhist traditions.
     • Specific Jain Meditative Practices: Discusses practices like Pindastha (meditation on the body as a symbolic representation), Padmastha (meditation on specific postures), Rupastha (meditation on divine forms), and Rupatita (meditation on the formless, pure soul).

   • Chapter 6: Evaluation of Meditation:

     • Benefits: Elaborates on the multifaceted benefits of meditation, categorized as physical, mental, and spiritual.
     • Physical Benefits: Improved health, reduced stress, and enhanced physical well-being.
     • Mental Benefits: Increased focus, clarity of mind, emotional regulation, and inner peace.
     • Spiritual Benefits: Self-realization, purification of the soul, reduction of karmic bondage, and progress towards liberation (Moksha). It also touches upon the traditional understanding of attaining supernatural powers (Rddhis) through intense meditation.
     • Scientific Perspective: Implicitly supports the psychological benefits of meditation, which align with modern scientific understanding of its impact on the brain and well-being.

   • Appendices:

     • Diagrams: Likely includes visual aids to explain meditative concepts or postures.
     • Glossary: Provides definitions of technical Jain terms, crucial for understanding the text.
     • Bibliography: Lists the extensive sources consulted, showcasing the thorough research.

In essence, "Jain Sadhna Paddhati me Dhyana Yoga" is a scholarly and devotional exploration of meditation within the comprehensive spiritual path of Jainism. It highlights meditation not merely as a technique for relaxation but as a fundamental pillar of Jain practice for achieving spiritual purity, self-knowledge, and ultimate liberation.