Sangit Ka Manav Jivan Par Manovaigyanik Prabhav

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "संगीत का मानव जीवन पर मनोवैज्ञानिक प्रभाव" (The Psychological Impact of Music on Human Life) by Madan Varma:

This text, excerpted from a Jain publication, explores the profound psychological and spiritual impact of music on human life, advocating for its elevated status as a means of connection, enlightenment, and well-being.

The author defines music as a "nadataatmak abhivyakti" (expressive manifestation through sound) of aesthetic appreciation, an artistic achievement of human society, and an excellent creation of human emotion. Music, a synthesis of singing, instrumental performance, and dance, is presented as the most potent medium for expressing spiritual joy and bliss. It is seen as a harmonious integration of these three arts, where their separate presentation diminishes the vibrancy of music.

Ancient scholars referred to music as "Nada Brahma" (sound as God), equating it with the divine. Through music, individuals can transcend external circumstances and become self-centered, entering a state akin to meditation or "samadhi." In this state, all mental faculties are directed towards sound, leading to a union with the divine. Therefore, music is considered a form of God.

Music is intrinsically linked to sound, melody, and emotion, permeating every aspect of life and existence. The text illustrates this by describing the musicality present in nature, from the rustling of leaves and the flow of rivers to the rumble of clouds and the patter of raindrops. Even in silence, the absence of sound is perceived as a form of music. Music is described as limitless, boundless, and inexhaustible.

Scholars have identified music as the greatest means to attain spiritual realization. Unlike other paths such as penance, charity, sacrifice, karma, and yoga, which can be fraught with distractions and deviations, music offers a direct route to liberation. These other paths can be arduous, require personal resources, are often driven by the desire for results, and can be complex. Music, however, liberates individuals from all thoughts and guides them towards salvation, offering happiness at both its beginning and end, making the path to moksha (liberation) effortless and enjoyable. The text quotes Yagnavalkya, a sage of yoga and knowledge, stating that one who is skilled in playing the veena, understanding melodies and rhythms, easily achieves the path to liberation.

Education is also highlighted for its contribution to the holistic development of humans, particularly the development of the heart through fine arts, with music holding the highest position. While physical fatigue has remedies, mental fatigue does not.

Music fosters humanity, promotes balanced life development, and instills discipline and control. It cultivates civilization, culture, broad vision, inner strength, patience, and humility. Music eradicates bitterness, deceit, complexity, and harshness from the heart, establishing politeness and affection. Without music, humans would be reduced to mere machines.

The current socio-economic system has created division, fragmentation, and class disparity, widening the gap between the rich and the poor. This division is exacerbated by politics and religion, which are portrayed as divisive forces that thrive on societal breakdown and conflict. Similarly, language, when imposed, fails to unite people, leading to conflicts over linguistic dominance. Both religion and politics, like language, do not foster connection and often create greater friction and differences.

It is through art, and specifically music, that the isolation between individuals can be overcome, establishing intimate relationships. Music has captivated humans since time immemorial, and an attraction to it is innate. Even young children are drawn to music, responding with joy and movement to songs and instruments. The text argues that this attraction is not merely due to sound but also to the inherent "ranjakta" (captivating quality) of music, which resonates with the child's being.

Humans seek solace in music in all circumstances – in times of sorrow and happiness. Musical preferences evolve with age, from playful music in childhood to romantic and energetic music in youth, serious themes in adulthood, and spiritual music for peace in old age.

The auditory form of music predates or coexists with language. In early times, individuals expressed joy and excitement through gestures, leaps, and vocalizations. These distinct sound patterns evolved into folk music. Even in early human history, evidenced by the creation of musical instruments from stone, wood, and animal parts for hunting and security, music was present and influential.

Indigenous tribes, often uneducated and unfamiliar with modern civilization, demonstrate a deep connection to music, which is integral to their celebrations and social gatherings. This enduring influence of music on them, even without formal education, underscores its profound impact.

Ancient poets understood that music could convey poetry to the soul of an individual. Poets like Tulsidas, Surdas, Sant Tukaram, Dadu Dayal, Kabir Das, and Meerabai infused their works with music, making them immensely popular and enduring. Modern poets, while technically proficient, often fail to connect with the masses because their poetry lacks the "ras" (essence) and musicality, rendering it lifeless.

Music fosters equality, cooperation, generosity, and introspection. When a musician performs, the audience is not concerned with their caste or religion. External barriers disappear, and individuals are immersed in pure joy emanating from the soul, where all are equal. Music awakens the soul, making humans broad-minded, unaffected, and pure. The text lists numerous renowned musicians across different instruments and styles, highlighting how their music evokes similar profound emotional responses, free from any impurity.

Music's ability to connect individuals is unparalleled. Its enchanting melodies affect animals, and experiments have shown its positive impact on plant growth and even in healing certain diseases by instilling hope, enthusiasm, and a desire for life. Historical accounts of music's miraculous effects include Krishna's flute captivating all beings, and the legends of Tansen and Baiju Bawra creating rain and igniting lamps with their music. The anecdote of Pandit Omkarnath Thakur calming a ferocious lion with his "bela" (a string instrument) illustrates music's power to subdue even fierce animals.

In conclusion, music has a deep connection with human life, reaching directly to the soul. It amplifies the happiness of the joyful, serves as an escape from worries, despair, and stress, and is an easy path to divine realization. Music acts as a bridge of intimacy between individuals. Regardless of language proficiency, everyone understands the language of music. The ultimate essence of scriptural wisdom, as presented in this excerpt, is to act without attachment.