Mahavira Meri Drushti Me

Mahavira: Meri Drishti Mein (Mahavira in My View) by Osho Rajneesh: A Comprehensive Summary

This book, "Mahavira: Meri Drishti Mein" (Mahavira in My View) by Osho Rajneesh, published by Jivan Jagruti Andolan Prakashan, Mumbai, offers Osho's unique and profound perspective on the life, teachings, and philosophy of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. The book presents Osho's insights derived from discourses given in Srinagar, Kashmir.

Core Philosophy and Approach:

Osho emphasizes that his understanding of Mahavira is not that of a disciple or follower, but of a lover. He believes that true understanding comes from love, not from blind adherence or opposition. His approach transcends dogma, scripture, and rituals, focusing on a direct, personal experience of Mahavira's essence. Osho posits that Mahavira's message, though obscured by time, is illuminated through his own perspective, presented in this book.

Key Themes and Interpretations:

The book delves into various aspects of Mahavira's life and teachings, reinterpreting them through Osho's distinct lens:

• Mahavira as a Lover, Not Just a Tirthankara: Osho sees Mahavira not merely as a religious figure but as an embodiment of love and a doorway to understanding the divine. He stresses that true love for any enlightened master, be it Mahavira, Buddha, or Krishna, lies in recognizing the universal divine spark that manifests through them, rather than being bound by their individuality.

• Beyond Scripture and Dogma: Osho liberates Mahavira's teachings from the confines of Jain scriptures and doctrines. He asserts that understanding Mahavira requires no reliance on ancient texts, principles, or gurus. The path is solitary, a journey of inner discovery.

• The Significance of Inner Experience: Osho highlights that Mahavira's teachings are not about intellectual understanding but about direct inner experience. He suggests that Mahavira's profound wisdom and consciousness still resonate, and by approaching him with a loving heart and deep attention, one can access these vibrations.

• The True Meaning of Practices: Osho meticulously clarifies the often-misunderstood concepts within Jainism, such as:

  • Kayaklesha (Self-Mortification): He refutes the notion of self-punishment and instead emphasizes "Kayaklesha" as the art of disciplining the body for its well-being and the pursuit of higher consciousness, drawing parallels with Mahavira's own beautiful physique, suggesting a focus on the body's welfare rather than its subjugation.
  • Upavas (Fasting): Osho distinguishes true "Upavas" as a state of deep absorption in the soul, where the awareness of the body fades, from "Anshan" (starvation), which keeps the mind tethered to bodily needs.

• The Essence of Mahavrata and Anuvrata: He explains that "Mahavrata" (great vows) are not mere external observances but the outcome of an inner explosion of consciousness. They arise spontaneously from a fully awakened being, not from following lesser vows.

• Nudity as Transcendence, Not Shame: Osho interprets Mahavira's nudity not as a rejection of clothing but as a state of being so complete and beautiful that there was nothing to hide. It symbolized his oneness with the universe, where clothing becomes a barrier to that connection.

• The Nature of Truth and Understanding: Osho posits that truth is innate and not something to be acquired from external sources. He asserts that trying to grasp Mahavira's message through logic or intellect is futile, as truth transcends rational comprehension.

• Reconciling Contradictions in Mahavira's Life: Osho addresses the apparent contradictions in Mahavira's life, such as his marriage and fatherhood versus his image as an ascetic. He explains that outward events are less significant than the inner state of detachment and transcendence (Vitragata), which allowed him to remain unbound even while experiencing worldly life.

• Mahavira's Unique Contribution: Osho highlights Mahavira's unique contribution in bringing forth a profound understanding of "Anekantavada" (relativism) and emphasizing the importance of subjective perception in understanding truth. He argues that Mahavira's approach allows for a more holistic and compassionate view of reality.

• The Importance of Inner Transformation: The core message is about inner transformation. Osho stresses that external actions or beliefs are secondary. The true path is an inward journey of self-discovery, leading to a state of being where one is no longer bound by external conditions.

Structure of the Book:

The book is structured as a series of discourses and question-and-answer sessions, covering a vast array of topics related to Mahavira's life, philosophy, and spiritual path. The extensive table of contents reveals a deep exploration of:

• The source and authenticity of the teachings.
• The difference between history and mythology.
• The role of scriptures and classical mediums in the search for truth.
• Mahavira's birth, marriage, detachment (Vitragata), and nudity.
• Contact with incorporeal souls.
• The meaning of "Vitaragata" (detachment).
• Past life memories (Jatismaran).
• Love and hate.
• Awareness of the self.
• The concept of "Parigraha" (possession) and "Aparigraha" (non-possession).
• The search for expression of truth.
• Courage, wisdom, awakening, and compassion.
• The nature of reality and unreality.
• Anekantavada (relativism).
• The relationship between Mahavrata and Anuvrata.
• Ethics and moral courage.
• The concept of "Nigoda" (a state of extreme suffering).
• The journey from Nigoda to Moksha (liberation).
• The possibility of establishing a connection with Mahavira.
• The art of becoming a "Shravaka" (listener).
• "Pratikraman" and "Samayik" (practices of introspection and equanimity).
• The distinction between morality and spiritual freedom.
• The true meaning of "Brahmacharya" (celibacy).
• The proper understanding of sensual pleasures.
• The importance of continuous awareness.
• The contemplation of vows.
• The nature of karma and its principles.
• The resolution of common misunderstandings regarding Mahavira's life and teachings.

Conclusion:

"Mahavira: Meri Drishti Mein" is not a biographical account in the traditional sense, but a deep spiritual exploration that uses Mahavira as a catalyst for understanding universal truths about consciousness, existence, and liberation. Osho's interpretation is radical, challenging conventional views and inviting readers to a direct, experiential encounter with the essence of Mahavira, urging them to discover the Mahavira within themselves. The book's value lies in its ability to re-contextualize ancient wisdom for contemporary seekers, making Mahavira's message relevant and accessible for personal transformation.