Swarodaygyan

This document is the Gujarati translation of the Jain text "Swarodayagyan" (also known as Swaroday Gyan) by Shri Chidanandji Maharaj, translated by Amrutlal Kalidas Doshi, and edited by Chandrakant Amrutlal Doshi. The publisher is Jain Sahitya Vikas Mandal, Mumbai.

The text is a comprehensive guide to Swarodayagyan, a branch of knowledge in Jainism related to the science of breath (pranayama) and its influence on various aspects of life, both material and spiritual. The core concept revolves around understanding the subtle science of breath as a manifestation of life force or Prana.

Here's a summary of the key themes and concepts discussed in the provided pages:

1. The Nature of Swar (Breath/Sound):

• The text begins by emphasizing the profoundness and value of "Swaragyan" (knowledge of breath/sound), stating that there is no greater wealth or knowledge.
• It delves into the meaning of "Swaroday" (emergence of breath/sound), linking it to Prana Shakti (life force). While the physical aspect of breath is observed, the text suggests a deeper, subtle process is implied.
• 'Swar' is defined as the vibration produced in the vocal cords according to the intention of the mind, which manifests as language or music. The internal Prana Shakti is the cause of this articulation.
• Prana is described as the subtle, all-pervading energy that drives all mental and bodily activities. It is obtained from air and supports life. Breath is the process of receiving and storing this Prana in the navel area.
• The text establishes that Prana and Swar are not separate; Swar is the audible manifestation of Prana during exhalation through the throat and nostrils.

2. The Threefold Nature of "Swar":

• Karya Swar (Effectual Swar): The audible sounds like 'a', 'aa', 'i', etc., produced from the throat.
• Karana Swar (Causal Swar): The underlying Prana Shakti, which is the cause of sound and is not perceptible by the senses.
• Swar (Breath): The text also connects the term "Swar" to the breath itself, as the science of Swaroday primarily analyzes the process of exhalation.

3. Nadis (Channels) and Breath:

• The text explains that the flow of breath through the nostrils corresponds to the activity in the associated bodily nadis (channels).
• The right nostril's breath is designated as "Suryanadi" (Sun Channel), and the left nostril's breath as "Chandra Nadi" (Moon Channel). These are metaphorically linked to the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
• The changes in breath are attributed to the fluctuations in the ever-moving Prana Shakti.

4. The Five Elements (Tattvas) and Breath:

• The text classifies the changes in breath into five types, assigning each to an element. For example, breath that flows forward and can be felt on the palm twelve angulas away is associated with the Earth Element.
• The shape of the breath's impression on a mirror (e.g., square for Earth Element) is used to identify the active element.
• Each element is linked to specific colors (Varna), chakras (energy centers in the body), and symbolic representations.

5. The Chakras:

• The text describes the chakras within the body, mentioning their respective elements, colors, and locations. For instance, the Muladhara chakra is associated with Earth and the color yellow, while the Swadhisthana chakra is associated with Water and white color.
• It acknowledges that while chakras are not physically visible, they are experienced through subtle observation of Prana flow.

6. Connection to Modern Science and Yoga:

• The text draws parallels between ancient Swaroday principles and modern scientific research, particularly highlighting Kirlian photography as a way to visualize subtle energies associated with living beings, which may corroborate the concepts of Prana and its manifestations.
• It mentions that Swarodayagyan serves as a foundational step for Pranayama and Dhyana (meditation) and can be used for body-mind balance and health benefits.

7. Spiritual Significance:

• Beyond practical applications, the ultimate goal of Swarodayagyan is stated to be Paramarth (spiritual liberation).
• It describes Swaroday as a means to develop self-awareness, discriminate between the body and the soul, and achieve spiritual progress.
• The text emphasizes the importance of Mantra Japa and Dhyana in conjunction with breath control for spiritual advancement.

8. Key Concepts and Practices:

• Pranayama: Detailed explanation of different types of Pranayama, including Nischay (definitive) and Vyavahar (practical) Pranayama.
• Nishchay Pranayama: Focuses on inner contemplation and the union of self-knowledge with breath control.
• Vyavahar Pranayama: Encompasses various techniques and practices for physical and subtle purification.
• Seven Forms of Pranayama Dhyana: The text outlines seven stages of Pranayama meditation for spiritual development.
• The "So'ham" Mantra: Recommended as a simple mantra for self-inquiry and realizing the divine within.
• Ajnapa Chakra: Mentioned as a crucial center for spiritual awakening.
• Anahata Nada: The unstruck sound experienced through deep meditation.
• The importance of Guru-Gom: The text repeatedly stresses the necessity of guidance from a Guru for understanding and practicing these subtle sciences.

9. Practical Applications:

• Astrology and Divination: The text extensively details how to use breath and elemental knowledge for predicting future events, understanding auspicious times for actions, and diagnosing ailments. It covers predicting weather, the outcome of events based on the direction of questioning, and the health of a patient.
• Timing of Actions: Guidance is provided on performing specific actions (e.g., construction, travel, business, health treatments) during favorable breath cycles (Suryanadi, Chandranadi, Sushumna).
• Health and Well-being: Swaroday is presented as a tool for maintaining physical health, overcoming diseases, and promoting mental well-being.

10. Structure and Content: The book is presented with a table of contents listing numerous topics covered, ranging from the fundamentals of Swar, Nadis, and Tattvas to advanced practices like Pranayama, various types of Dhyana, Mudras, Bandhas, and their application in predicting future events and achieving spiritual goals.

In essence, "Swarodayagyan" by Shri Chidanandji Maharaj, as translated and presented, is a profound work that bridges ancient yogic and Jain wisdom with practical applications for daily life and spiritual liberation. It highlights the significance of understanding and controlling the breath (Prana) as a key to unlocking one's potential, achieving health, and ultimately attaining self-realization.