Yoga Philosophy

This comprehensive document, "The Yoga Philosophy" by Virchand R. Gandhi and Bhagu F. Karbhari, published by the Devchand Lalbhai Pustakoddhar Fund in 1912, serves as a collection of speeches and writings by Virchand R. Gandhi on Jain philosophy, with a particular focus on Yoga. The preface by Bhagu F. Karbhari highlights Gandhi's significant contributions to the spread of Jainism globally and expresses a desire to place his extensive work on a permanent footing. Karbhari acknowledges the valuable, though largely untranslated, Sanskrit treatises on Yoga by Jain priests and emphasizes the need to understand ancient practices in light of modern psychology.

The book is structured into several key sections:

1. Mysticism in India (The Yoga Philosophy): Gandhi begins by positing that true science and true religion are not separate but are aspects of a unified truth. He emphasizes that ethics must be based on rational demonstration and that happiness and progress are the aims of human existence. He connects ethics with religion, stating that religion is an attempt to understand nature and man's place within it. This necessitates a holistic development of the physical, psychological, and moral aspects of a person. He then delves into the Sankhya philosophy, which posits that the universe is full of suffering arising from Prakriti (matter) rather than Purusha (consciousness). Yoga, complementing Sankhya, introduces the concept of Ishvara (a supreme God) for contemplation and focuses on practical methods to achieve liberation (Kaivalya). Yoga is defined as the cessation of transformations of the thinking principle (Antah-Karana), which includes Manas, Chitta, Ahankara, and Buddhi. The eight limbs of Yoga are outlined: Yama (abstinence), Niyama (observances), Asana (postures), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (withdrawal of senses), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (absorption leading to Kaivalya). Gandhi critically examines Western perspectives on Yoga, citing scholars like Monier-Williams and Dr. Heinrich Hensoldt, and asserts that true Yoga leads to the realization of the self and the suppression of mental transformations. He details the first two stages of Yoga, Yama and Niyama, emphasizing principles like non-killing (Ahimsa), truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possessiveness, and observances like purity, contentment, and self-resignation.

2. Practical Rules for Soul Culture: This section focuses on living a life of harmony and universal love as the foundation for soul culture. Gandhi criticizes the "struggle for existence" paradigm, advocating for a life of harmony and love for all living beings. He outlines four key virtues: Maitri (friendship), Pramoda (gladness at others' prosperity), Karuna (compassion), and Upeksha (overlooking faults). He then provides practical advice, including waking early, examining the Tattvas (elements) of breath, and understanding the nature of the soul as distinct from the body. The discussion touches upon the concepts of rebirth, the soul's journey through different states, and the critical role of Karma. The book also explores the relationship between the soul and matter, emphasizing that while matter can influence the soul, the soul's inherent nature is spiritual and eternal. The concept of Karma is explained as a doctrine of ethical causation, not fatalism.

3. The Science of Breathing: This section delves into the physical and spiritual aspects of breathing (Pranayama). Gandhi explains the physiological process of respiration, highlighting the importance of deep and rhythmic breathing. He introduces the concept of different "ethers" in the air that contribute to vitality and spiritual power, and explains how to regulate breathing to influence these ethers. He contrasts different breathing techniques, emphasizing the benefits of full chest expansion and rhythmic control of inhalation, retention, and exhalation. Diet and dress are also discussed as crucial factors influencing breathing practices. The text also touches upon the spiritual localities of different "ethers" in the body and the potential for developing powers through concentrated breathing. The importance of proper diet, especially vegetarianism, and loose clothing is stressed for effective breathing practices.

4. Hypnotism: Gandhi examines mesmerism, hypnotism, and Christian Science, analyzing their theories and practical outcomes from a Hindu perspective. He discusses the concept of magnetic fluid, suggestion, and physiological changes in hypnotic states, differentiating between the Nancy and Paris schools of hypnotism. He criticulates the idea that matter does not exist in Christian Science, arguing for a balanced view where mind controls matter, rather than denying matter's existence. He emphasizes that true spiritual progress involves the mind controlling matter, not being controlled by it. The discussion also touches upon the dangers of hypnotism, particularly its potential misuse and the relinquishing of one's will.

5. Occult Powers: This section explores the basis of occult powers, linking them to the interaction of soul and matter. Gandhi explains that these powers operate on physical, mental, and spiritual planes, and their manifestation depends on the purity of the individual's physical, mental, and moral development. He discusses the power of memory, the importance of morality, and the role of concentrated thought. The text delves into the concept of subtle ethers, the nervous system, and the plexuses within the body, suggesting that controlling these can lead to extraordinary abilities like levitation or invisibility. He distinguishes true spiritual powers from mere jugglery, emphasizing that genuine powers arise from inner spiritual development, not external displays.

6. The Speech of the Gods: This chapter explores the idea of a universal "Mystery Language" or an intuitive connection between sounds, colors, and forms, inherited from ancient Aryans. Gandhi proposes that the roots of language have a spiritual or innate relation to various qualities, and analyzes the phonetic values of certain letters (like B, M, P, V, F, J, K, G) and their supposed spiritual significance, aligning them with the elements and stages of creation. This chapter suggests a proto-language with inherent symbolic meanings.

7. Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad of Krishna-Yajur Veda: This section presents a translation of a Yoga Upanishad, detailing the science of Khechari Mudra, which is said to free one from old age and death. It emphasizes the difficulty of mastering this science and its practice, requiring guidance from a Guru. The text describes methods for tongue manipulation and the gradual upward movement of the tongue to various centers in the body, leading to spiritual attainment. It also includes mantras and practices for purification and the attainment of psychic powers.

8. The Physiology of Yogam: This section offers a physiological explanation for the seemingly impossible feats of Yogis, such as remaining alive without breathing for extended periods. Gandhi suggests that through rigorous training, Yogis can develop cutaneous respiration (breathing through the skin) to supplement lung function and minimize oxygen consumption. He discusses the role of the skin in respiration, the importance of controlled environments (warm, dry climates), minimal physical exertion, empty stomach practices, and the effect of clothing. He also draws analogies from animal hibernation and the anesthetic effects of controlled breathing.

9. The Practice of Pranayama Yoga & Note on the Above: This section includes a letter from a "Practical Student" who shares their personal experiences with Pranayama, witnessing luminous phenomena and a "fiery influence." A "Practical Student" responds, explaining these phenomena in physiological and yogic terms. The letter discusses the "phosphene" and the arousal of gastric fire, emphasizing the need for proper diet, guidance from a teacher, and avoiding fear. The response highlights the importance of purity, moderation in food, and abstaining from sexual intercourse for successful Pranayama practice.

10. The Mystery Language: This chapter, attributed to Henry Pratt, M.D., discusses the theory of a universal "Mystery Language" or an ideographic system of communication that predates spoken languages. It posits that Hebrew letters were originally ideograms representing root ideas and that this system allowed for inter-racial communication and the transmission of esoteric knowledge. The text analyzes the symbolic meanings of Hebrew letters and their connection to creation myths, suggesting that modern language has lost this deeper, intuitive meaning.

11. Divination and Augury in a Modern Light: This multi-part essay by F. W. Thurston explores various methods of divination and augury, categorizing them and analyzing them from modern scientific and spiritualist perspectives. It discusses the limitations of materialistic science in explaining these phenomena and examines the contributions of mental science, psychical research, mesmerism, hypnotism, and spiritualism. The essay highlights the role of sub-consciousness, external influences (human and non-human), and the concept of Karma. It also touches upon palmistry and astrology, suggesting that their practices may be based on observations of planetary influences and human tendencies.

12. The Science of Breathing (Second Part): This continuation of the "Science of Breathing" elaborates on the subtle forces within the body, known as ethers, and their connection to health and spiritual evolution. It explains how to regulate breathing to influence these ethers, control bodily positivity and negativity, and achieve harmony with nature. The text distinguishes between abdominal and chest breathing, advocating for a comprehensive deep breathing technique that expands the entire thoracic cavity. It also discusses the importance of diet, dress, and body posture in the practice of breathing exercises.

13. Polarity in Matter: This chapter delves into the fundamental principles of matter, energy, and ether, and introduces the concept of polarity as the driving force behind the formation and transformation of material systems. It explains how polarity manifests in chemical elements and how atoms, through their polarities, combine to form molecules and matter. The concept of quantivalence and Isomerism is also introduced to explain the diversity of substances.

14. Shatachakrabheda: This section details the concept of the six chakras (or lotuses) within the human subtle body, as described in yogic texts. It maps out the location and symbolic representations of these chakras, starting from the Muladhar Chakra (sacral plexus) and moving upwards to the Ajna Chakra (cavernous plexus). The text describes the deities, elements, and seed letters associated with each chakra and the potential powers gained through concentration and control of these centers.

15. The Anatomy of the Tantras: This chapter, based on the translation of the Shiva Sanhita, explores the anatomical knowledge contained within Tantric texts. It discusses the identification of Nadis (channels), Chakras (centers), and Padmas (lotuses) within the human body, correlating them with modern anatomical terms like the spinal cord, sympathetic nerves, and nervous plexuses. The Brahmarandhra is identified with the central canal of the spinal cord, and the six Tantric Chakras are linked to specific sympathetic plexuses. The chapter highlights the potential for gaining psychic powers through contemplation on these chakras.

16. Psychism and the Fourth Dimension: This chapter connects the concepts of psychism with the mathematical idea of a Fourth Dimension. It explores Professor Zollner's theories, which suggest that phenomena observed in spiritualism can be explained by the actions of beings or agencies operating in a four-dimensional space. The text uses analogies to explain how entities in higher dimensions might interact with our three-dimensional reality. It also draws parallels with Indian metaphysical concepts of numerous worlds (lokas) and the mind's capacity to conceive of higher dimensions.

17. Notes. Correspondence between the Physical and Spiritual Laws: This section provides brief reflections on the correspondence between physical and spiritual laws, and the hierarchical structure of the spiritual world. It touches upon the concept of spiritual evolution and the potential for moral or spiritual retrogression.

18. External Influence on the Human Being: This chapter discusses various external influences that shape human character and destiny, including planetary positions, inherited tendencies, maternal impressions, and astrological conjunctions. It highlights the ancient philosophers' profound study of nature and their emphasis on physical preparation and disciplined living for spiritual advancement, contrasting it with the superficiality of modern practices.

19. Astral Fluid: This section elaborates on the concept of Astral fluid, describing it as a subtle energy that permeates the universe and influences human beings. It differentiates between individuals with abundant Astral fluid, categorizing them as magnetic healers or psychologists based on the distribution of this fluid within their bodies. The text suggests that by controlling and directing this fluid, individuals can develop psychic powers and even influence others. It also touches upon the concept of mediums and their susceptibility to external influences.

20. Notes: This section is followed by a personal letter from Ella Sterling Cummins to Mrs. Howard, describing Virchand R. Gandhi's speech at the 19th Century Club in New York. The letter praises Gandhi's eloquence, his critique of missionary practices, and his profound intellectual capacity, even noting Swami Vivekananda's inferiority in comparison to Gandhi.

Overall, "The Yoga Philosophy" by Virchand R. Gandhi and Bhagu F. Karbhari presents a multifaceted exploration of Yoga and related spiritual and philosophical concepts from a Jain perspective. It bridges ancient Indian wisdom with contemporary scientific and philosophical discourse, offering insights into the human condition, the nature of consciousness, and the path to spiritual liberation. The book emphasizes practical application, ethical living, and the importance of a holistic approach to self-development.