Yog Drushti Samucchay Part 03

This is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Yog Drushti Samucchay Part 03," authored by Pravin K Mota and published by Gitarth Ganga.

Overall Context:

This text is the third part of a detailed word-by-word commentary (Shabdashah Vivechan) on Acharya Haribhadra Suri's seminal work, "Yog Drushti Samucchay." The commentary is provided by Panditvar Shri Pravinchandra Khimji Mota. The text itself discusses various stages and aspects of the yogic path as understood within Jain philosophy, focusing on the eight "Drishtis" (perspectives or stages of spiritual vision) outlined in Haribhadra Suri's original work.

Key Components of the Text:

1. Attribution and Reverence:

   • The original text is attributed to Acharya Shri Haribhadrasurishwarji Maharaj, a renowned Jain scholar and composer.
   • The commentary is authored by Panditvar Shri Pravinchandra Khimji Mota.
   • The compilation and research are done by Sadhvi Shri Rijhumatiji M.S., a disciple of Sadhvi Charitra Shriji M.S.
   • The publication is by Gitarth Ganga, with blessings from various esteemed Acharyas and Munis, highlighting the spiritual lineage and support for the work.

2. Purpose of the Commentary:

   • The "Gitarth Ganga" publication aims to analyze and present the profound meanings of Jain scriptures, composed by revered past Acharyas like Haribhadrasuri and Yashovijayji, in a way that aids the Jain community in understanding the underlying principles.
   • This specific commentary is a response to the demand for detailed explanations of the lectures and analyses of various spiritual topics.

3. Core Content - Yog Drushti Samucchay (Part 03):

   • This volume focuses on the later stages of the eight "Drishtis" described in the original text: Sthira Drishti (5th), Kanta Drishti (6th), Prabha Drishti (7th), and Para Drishti (8th).
   • Detailed Explanation of Each Drishti: The commentary meticulously breaks down the verses (shlokas) related to each Drishti, explaining:
     • Sthira Drishti (Fixed Vision): Characterized by "Pratyahara" (withdrawal of senses), absence of delusion, and the presence of "Bodha" (wisdom/understanding). It describes how those with Sthira Drishti perceive worldly activities and the true nature of the soul.
     • Kanta Drishti (Pleasing Vision): Involves "Dharana" (concentration), elimination of certain defects, and a constant contemplation of what is beneficial, leading to others' affection. It discusses how these yogis remain unaffected by worldly pleasures due to their deep understanding.
     • Prabha Drishti (Luminous Vision): Marked by "Dhyana" (meditation), absence of "Roga" (disease/flaw) in actions, and "Tattva Pratipatti" (realization of truth). This stage leads to "Asanga Anushthan" (non-attached action) and the attainment of divine happiness.
     • Para Drishti (Supreme Vision): Characterized by "Samadhi" (deep absorption), absence of "Asanga" (attachment) even in Samadhi, and "Nirachara Pad" (state of being free from need for external actions). It describes how these yogis, free from defects and karmic bondage, achieve the highest state of liberation.
   • Philosophical Discussions: The text delves into nuanced philosophical points, including:
     • Nayas (Standpoints): Discusses the application of Dravyaarthika Naya (substance-oriented) and Paryayarthika Naya (mode-oriented) in understanding reality.
     • Critique of Other Philosophies: The commentary addresses and refutes certain views of other philosophical schools (like Buddhism's concept of Nirvana as annihilation) in establishing the Jain perspective on liberation and the nature of the soul.
     • Qualities of Yogis: It details the virtues and characteristics developed at each stage of the yogic path, such as detachment, equanimity, wisdom, and freedom from defects.
     • The Nature of Happiness: It contrasts worldly happiness derived from external sources with the intrinsic, spiritual happiness obtained through meditation and self-realization.
     • The Importance of Detachment: A recurring theme is the necessity of non-attachment, even when experiencing worldly phenomena or practicing meditation, to progress on the path to liberation.
   • The Goal of Liberation: The ultimate aim discussed is the attainment of Keval Gyan (omniscience) and Moksha (liberation) from the cycle of birth and death (samsara).
   • The Author's Journey: The preface mentions the author's personal journey in studying this profound text, highlighting the guidance received from eminent scholars and sadhvis.

Key Concepts Explained:

• Eight Drishtis: The text systematically explains the characteristics, qualities, and progression through the eight spiritual visions (Mitra, Tara, Bala, Deepa, Sthira, Kanta, Prabha, Para).
• Yogangas: The commentary relates the stages of Drishti to the eight limbs of Yoga, such as Pratyahara, Dharana, and Dhyana.
• Karma and Liberation: It explains how the gradual purification of the soul from karmic obstructions leads to higher stages of Drishti and ultimately liberation.
• The Role of Knowledge and Wisdom: The text emphasizes the importance of right knowledge (Samyak Gyaan) and right perception (Samyak Darshan) in the yogic journey.

Overall Significance:

"Yog Drushti Samucchay Part 03" is an intricate philosophical and spiritual text that provides a detailed interpretive framework for understanding the advanced stages of the Jain yogic path. It serves as a guide for practitioners seeking to progress through higher spiritual states, offering profound insights into the nature of reality, the soul, and the means to achieve ultimate liberation. The commentary makes complex concepts accessible, illuminating the path of spiritual development within the Jain tradition.