Yogavinshika

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Yogavimshika" by Acharya Vijay Abhay Shekhar Suri, based on the provided pages:

Yogavimshika: A Summary

The Yogavimshika, authored by the esteemed Acharya Haribhadrasuri and commented upon by Mahopadhyaya Yashovijayji, is a profound Jain text that delves into the secrets of Yoga. This particular edition features a Gujarati commentary by Acharya Vijay Abhay Shekhar Suri, and its second edition was published by Divya Darshan Trust.

Core Teachings and Purpose:

The Yogavimshika, despite its conciseness (containing only 20 verses), offers a comprehensive essence of the Yoga path. The commentary emphasizes that in the Jain tradition, the path to liberation (Moksha) is synonymous with Yoga Sadhana. This Sadhana involves the worship of divine beings (Deva) and spiritual mentors (Guru) who are considered Yogis, alongside the practice of Dharma which itself is a form of Yoga.

Key Concepts:

• Yoga as the Path to Liberation: The text firmly establishes that Yoga is not merely a physical or mental discipline but the very means to achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This is achieved through the worship and emulation of exemplary beings.
• Worship of the Divine and Gurus: The text highlights the importance of understanding the nature of the Divine and spiritual guides, cultivating faith, reverence, respect, and performing acts of worship towards them. This devotion to the divine and virtuous guides is seen as a crucial element in Yoga.
• Dharma as Yoga Sadhana: The practice of Dharma, encompassing inner virtues and outward conduct, is presented as the core of Yoga Sadhana. This includes adherence to principles like knowledge, faith, conduct, penance, and efforts towards purification.
• Shaktipat (Transmission of Spiritual Energy): The text explains that devotion and veneration towards the Divine and spiritual mentors act as a conduit for spiritual energy (Shaktipat), which helps overcome obstacles in Sadhana and accelerates progress.
• The Five Intentions (Ashayas): The commentary extensively discusses five key intentions:
  1. Pranidhan (Commitment/Dedication): The resolute determination to achieve the desired spiritual goal.
  2. Pravritti (Activity/Practice): Engaging in actions and practices that lead towards the goal.
  3. Vighnajay (Overcoming Obstacles): The ability to conquer difficulties and hindrances on the spiritual path.
  4. Siddhi (Attainment/Achievement): The achievement of spiritual progress or goals.
  5. Vinoyog (Application/Usage): The skillful application of knowledge and practices.
• Jain Yoga vs. Other Yogas: The text asserts that Jain Yoga, as taught by the omniscient Tirthankaras, is superior and complete compared to other forms of Yoga, which are considered incomplete. Jain Yoga leads to the ultimate realization and liberation.
• The Importance of Action (Kriya): The commentary stresses that religious actions, when infused with the right intentions (Ashayas), transform into Yoga Sadhana. Merely performing rituals without the proper inner disposition is deemed mere 'dravya kriya' (material action) and is considered insignificant in the ultimate goal of liberation.
• The Role of Karma and Samskaras: The text touches upon how past actions (karma) and ingrained tendencies (samskaras) influence one's spiritual journey. The commentary by Acharya Abhay Shekhar Suri also critically examines earlier commentaries on Yogavimshika, highlighting perceived deficiencies and offering new insights.
• The Interplay of Knowledge and Practice: The text emphasizes that true spiritual progress comes from the integrated development of both knowledge (jnana) and practice (kriya).

Commentary and Scholarly Rigor:

The commentary by Acharya Vijay Abhay Shekhar Suri is noted for its detailed explanation, analyzing each word, its context, and its connection with other scriptures. It aims to reveal the deeper, hidden meanings of Yoga within the text. The rigorous research and intellectual depth of the commentary are further enhanced by the review of Gachhadhipati Acharya Vijay Jayghosh Surishwarji Maharaj.

Dedication and Gratitude:

The publication of this work is a tribute to the birth centenary of Gurudev Acharya Bhagwant Shrimad Vijay Bhuvanbhanu Surishwarji Maharaj, acknowledging his immense contributions. The financial support for the publication came from Shri Heersuriji Jagadguruh Shvet. Murti. Tap. Jain Sangh Drusht – Gyan Khat, Malad (East).

Overall Message:

The Yogavimshika, through its commentary, serves as a guide for spiritual seekers, illuminating the path of Yoga within the Jain framework. It underscores the transformative power of devotion, disciplined practice, and the right intentions in achieving the ultimate goal of liberation. The text encourages a deep study and contemplation of these principles for the spiritual upliftment of all beings.