Mahavira Vani Part 2

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Mahavira Vani Part 2" by Osho Rajnish, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Mahavira Vani Part 2 Author: Osho Rajnish Publisher: Rebel Publishing House Puna

Overall Theme: "Mahavira Vani Part 2" is a compilation of Osho's discourses, delving into the teachings of Lord Mahavira. The underlying theme, as presented in the initial pages and woven throughout the text, is a profound exploration of spiritual realization, emphasizing the path of awareness, self-discovery, and transcending the limitations of the ego and worldly attachments. Osho interprets Mahavira's teachings through his unique perspective, highlighting the universal essence of these ancient wisdoms that resonate with modern seekers.

Key Concepts and Discussions:

1. The Nature of Existence and Consciousness:

   • Beyond Materiality: The text distinguishes between mere existence (like a stone) and conscious existence (like a human). Consciousness is seen as the ability to experience, to know "I am." The ultimate goal is to know "who I am," which leads to the state of God-consciousness or Mahavira's concept of Kevalya (pure, absolute knowledge).
   • The Duality of Existence: Existence is understood as comprising six fundamental elements or substances (dravyas): Dharma (virtue/morality, principle of motion), Adharma (immorality/inactivity, principle of rest), Akash (space, capacity for all things), Kal (time, the process of change), Pudgal (matter, which is in constant flux), and Jiva (soul, consciousness, the experiencer). These are seen as eternal and uncreated.
   • The Illusion of "I": True realization comes from transcending the ego, the sense of "I." The path involves shedding all attachments, including the attachment to one's own identity, past experiences, and even the very concept of "self."

2. The Path of Mahavira:

   • Emphasis on Consciousness and Awareness (Apramada/Hosh): Osho emphasizes that Mahavira's core teaching is about Apramada, which translates to non-negligence, constant awareness, or vigilance. This heightened consciousness is the key to navigating life without falling prey to unconscious habits and desires.
   • Self-Reliance and Internal Source: The path to liberation is an inward journey. Mahavira's teachings are presented as a guide to discovering the divine within, rather than seeking it externally. The emphasis is on the individual's inherent potential for enlightenment.
   • The Nature of Actions: Actions are viewed through the lens of consciousness. Actions performed with awareness and intention are considered karma-yoga (actions leading to liberation), while actions performed unconsciously or in a state of delusion are karma-bandhana (actions leading to bondage). The quality of consciousness behind an action is paramount.
   • Mastery Over Internal States: The four cardinal vices—Krodha (anger), Mana (pride), Maya (deceit/illusion), and Lobha (greed)—are identified as internal enemies. Overcoming these is crucial. However, the ultimate victory lies in conquering the "self" (Atma). This means transcending the ego and its limitations.
   • Rejection of External Authority (in the context of true realization): While acknowledging the role of guidance, the ultimate responsibility and the source of true understanding lie within the individual. External beliefs, scriptures, or even a guru, are seen as pointers, but the actual realization must be one's own.

3. The Role of Desire (Jivēṣaṇā) and Attachment (Āsakti):

   • Desire as Bondage: Jivēṣaṇā (the drive to live, the thirst for existence) is identified as the root cause of suffering and the cycle of rebirth (samsara). This desire, often projected into the future, causes individuals to miss the present moment.
   • Attachment as Suffering: Āsakti (attachment) to people, possessions, or even spiritual experiences, is seen as the primary cause of suffering. Osho uses the metaphor of the lotus flower, which grows in muddy water but remains untouched by it, to illustrate the ideal state of detachment amidst the world.
   • The Illusion of External Fulfilment: The pursuit of happiness and satisfaction through external means is futile. True contentment and liberation come from within.

4. Understanding of Key Jain Concepts:

   • Hosh (Awareness): This is the central principle. Living with full awareness in every action, thought, and moment is the path.
   • Samiti and Gupti: These are presented as eight foundational practices for spiritual progress.
     • Five Samitis (Positive Actions): Careful conduct in movement (Irya), speech (Bhasha), accepting alms (Eshana), handling objects (Adan-Nikshep), and excretion (Uchchar). These are about mindful engagement with the world.
     • Three Guptis (Control/Restraint): Control of mind (Manogupti), speech (Vachan-gupti), and body (Kaya-gupti). These are about restraining impulses and directing energies inwards.
   • Leshyas (Colors of Consciousness): Osho explains the six leshya categories (Krishna, Neel, Kapot, Tejas, Padam, Shukla) as states of consciousness or "auras" that influence one's experience and destiny. The first three (dark/negative colors) lead to negative consequences, while the latter three (bright/positive colors) lead to positive outcomes and spiritual progress.
   • Karma and Responsibility: A significant emphasis is placed on individual responsibility for one's actions and their consequences (karma). Suffering is seen as a direct result of one's own deeds, not external forces or other beings. Osho counters the idea of blaming others, highlighting that internal states are the true source of experience.
   • The Nature of "Puja" (Worship/Reverence): The text explores who or what is worthy of reverence. True reverence is not based on external adherence to rules or rituals but on internal qualities like humility, self-awareness, detachment from desires, and the ability to remain equanimous amidst dualities like pleasure/pain, gain/loss, and even inherent predispositions like anger and pride.

5. Osho's Interpretive Style:

   • Modernizing Ancient Wisdom: Osho reinterprets Mahavira's teachings in a contemporary context, making them accessible and relevant to the modern mind. He bridges the gap between ancient Jain philosophy and modern psychology, science, and everyday life.
   • Emphasis on Direct Experience: The discourses advocate for direct experience over blind faith or intellectual understanding. The essence of spiritual practice is to embody the teachings rather than just collecting information.
   • Critique of Ritualism and Dogma: Osho often critiques superficial religious practices and blind adherence to dogma, urging seekers to look beyond external forms and delve into the inner substance of truth. He points out the paradoxes and inconsistencies that can arise when ancient teachings are taken literally without understanding their deeper intent.
   • Holistic View of Life: The discourses present a holistic view of human existence, integrating physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions. Osho encourages embracing life in its totality, including the body, emotions, and mind, as pathways to transformation.

Structure of the Book: The book contains 27 discourses given by Osho during the Paryushan festival of 1976 and 1977. The discourses are organized thematically, covering various aspects of Mahavira's philosophy.

In essence, "Mahavira Vani Part 2" by Osho is a profound exploration of Mahavira's teachings, presented through Osho's unique lens. It emphasizes the importance of conscious living, self-awareness, detachment, and understanding the interplay between inner states and outer actions as the path to spiritual liberation. Osho encourages readers to question beliefs, seek direct experience, and cultivate a life of awakened presence, thereby embodying the principles of Mahavira in their own lives.