Transmutation Of Personality Through Preksha Meditation

Here's a comprehensive summary of "Transmutation of Personality Through Preksha Meditation" by Acharya Tulsi, based on the provided text:

Book Overview and Purpose:

"Transmutation of Personality Through Preksha Meditation," translated by R.K. Seth, is a seminal work by Acharya Tulsi that delves into the practice and philosophy of Preksha Meditation. The book aims to guide individuals towards profound inner transformation by explaining the techniques and benefits of this meditative system. It emphasizes that religion's ultimate goal is to purify the mind, and meditation is the very soul of this process.

Origin and Philosophy of Preksha Meditation:

Acharya Tulsi explains that Preksha Meditation is not an abrupt invention but rather the culmination of a long process, stemming from the Anuvrat movement. While Anuvrat focused on ethical conduct and societal change, the growing awareness of spirituality paved the way for Preksha, which delves into the subtler aspects of inner life. The practice is rooted in the Jain Agamas, particularly the Acharang Sutra, and has been revived and systematized through extensive research and experimentation by Yuvacharya Mahaprajna and Acharya Tulsi himself.

Key Principles and Techniques:

• Trigupti (Threefold Steadiness): Preksha Meditation is fundamentally about the practice of trigupti, which involves control over mind, speech, and body. This means thinking less, speaking less, and minimizing bodily movement to conserve energy.
• Introversion: The natural outward flow of consciousness needs to be turned inwards. This "internal trip" involves focusing attention on the body's inner workings, from the toes to the head, and observing sensations, vibrations, and energy centers.
• Mindfulness and Awareness: Every activity, from waking to sleeping, should be performed with full awareness. This mindfulness helps in achieving self-control and transforming habits.
• Breath-Perception: Regulating breath through deep, slow, and silent breathing is a foundational practice. This practice leads to mental integration, peace, alertness, and a weakening of the ego.
• Body-Perception: This involves a detailed, dispassionate observation of the body, both externally and internally. It helps in understanding the body's subtle energies, psychic centers, and ultimately, the soul.
• Psychic Centers (Kendra): The book details various psychic centers in the body (e.g., Jnan Kendra, Centre of Tranquillity, Jyoti Kendra, Darshan Kendra, Prana Kendra, Brahma Kendra, Centre of Purity, Centre of Bliss, Tejas Kendra, Centre of Health, Centre of Energy) and their influence on emotions, consciousness, and spiritual development. Awakening these centers is crucial for purification and transformation.
• Leshya and Aura: Leshya, a concept unique to Jainism, refers to the subtle force of feeling that colors one's inner state and outer aura. The six leshyas (black, blue, grey, red, lotus-colored, and white) have distinct colors, tastes, smells, and tactile qualities that reflect and influence one's personality and spiritual progress. Purifying leshya through meditation leads to a brighter aura and a more peaceful, balanced state.
• Japa: The repetition of sacred sounds or mantras like "Arham" is considered a psychological treatment that aids in mind concentration. It's most effective when combined with deep feeling and mindfulness.
• Importance of the Guru and Regular Practice: The guidance of an experienced guru is deemed essential for navigating the complexities of meditation. Consistent practice (sadhana) is paramount for assimilation and realization. The ancient Gurukul system, though extinct, is partly replicated by meditation camps (shivirs).
• Transformation of Personality: Through Preksha Meditation, individuals can transmute their personality by overcoming negative emotions like anger, greed, and ego, cultivating equanimity, developing self-control, and fostering spiritual growth.

The Goal of Preksha Meditation:

The ultimate aim of Preksha Meditation is to achieve veetaragta (freedom from attachment and aversion) and equanimity. This leads to inner joy, self-realization, and the transmutation of one's personality, allowing individuals to live a more balanced, peaceful, and spiritually fulfilling life. The book emphasizes that this transformation is attainable through systematic practice, right understanding, and unwavering faith.