Yogmargni Antdrashti

This document is a comprehensive Jain text titled "Yogmargni Antdrashti" (Insight into the Path of Yoga) by Dr. Rashmi Bheda, published by Shree Mumbai Jain Yuvak Sangh. It explores the concept of Yoga from a Jain perspective and in relation to other Indian philosophical traditions.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and discussions within the text:

1. Introduction and Definition of Yoga:

• Core Meaning: Yoga is fundamentally presented as a means to connect with the "Paramatattva" (Supreme Reality) within oneself. It's about transcending the identification with the physical body, mind, and ego to realize one's true, pure, eternal, and blissful soul.
• Jain Perspective on Yoga: In Jainism, Yoga is primarily defined as "Mokshe Yoga" (Yoga leading to liberation) or "Moksha se yojanam" (union with liberation). It's the process by which the soul achieves its pure, liberated state, which is also called Moksha or Nirvana.
• "Ayog" as the Goal: Unlike some other traditions that aim for union with a supreme being, Jainism posits that the ultimate goal of its Yoga is "Ayog," which means a state devoid of the union of mind, speech, and body, signifying a state of pure, detached existence. The soul, through its own efforts, can become like a "Paramatma" (Supreme Soul).
• "Yuj" Dhatu: The word "Yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit root "Yuj," meaning "to join" or "to concentrate," which encompasses both the act of union and the state of stable concentration (Samadhi).

2. Yoga in the Context of Indian Philosophy:

• Universality of Yoga: The text highlights that Yoga is a cornerstone of Indian culture, offering physical health, energy, and peace, but most importantly, spiritual elevation. It guides individuals to transcend worldly afflictions like desires, aversions, ego, mental and physical ailments.
• Comparison with Other Traditions:
  • Patanjali's Yoga Sutras: Recognized as a standard text, outlining Ashtanga Yoga.
  • Samkhya: The text notes that Samkhya's spiritual practice is Ashtanga Yoga, as elaborated by Patanjali.
  • Buddhism: Its path to Nirvana is through Yoga Sadhana, specifically mentioning the "Vishuddha Marga."
  • Jainism: The core practice is the "Three Jewels" – Samyaag Darshan (Right Faith), Samyaag Gnaan (Right Knowledge), and Samyaag Charitra (Right Conduct).
  • Bhagavad Gita: Discusses Bhakti Yoga, Karma Yoga, and Gnaan Yoga.

3. Jain Yoga: Historical Development and Key Concepts:

• Early References: The term "Yoga" is found in ancient Jain scriptures like the "Shri Acharyaanga Sutra" and other Agamas, where Jain spiritual practices are described. Tirthankaras are often referred to as "Yogeshwar," "Yogakushala," and "Yogindra."
• Key Acharyas and Their Contributions: The text mentions significant Jain scholars and yogis who contributed to Jain Yoga literature, including Acharya Kundakunda, Acharya Umaswati (author of Tattvarthasutra), Acharya Jinbhadra Gani (Dhyanashatak), Acharya Yashovijayji, Acharya Haribhadrasuri (Yoga Bindu, Yoga Shatak, Yoga Vinsika, Yoga Drishti Samuchchaya), Mahayogi Anandghanji, Yoganishta Acharya Buddh Sagarji, and Acharya Mahaprajna.
• The Three Jewels (Ratnatrayi): This is presented as the central "Mahayoga" in Jainism, comprising Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct, which leads to Moksha.
• Karma and Liberation: Jainism emphasizes that the soul is bound by karmas, causing the cycle of birth and death. Complete annihilation of karma leads to the soul's liberation and attainment of the Paramatma state.
• "Ayog" vs. "Yog": While other philosophies might aim to "yoga" (unite) with a supreme being, Jainism's "Ayog" signifies a state of complete detachment and freedom from karmas, leading to the soul's inherent purity and divinity.
• Moksha as the Ultimate Goal: All Indian philosophies accept liberation (Moksha or Nirvana) as the ultimate aim. Jainism, in particular, is considered highly "astika" (theistic, in the sense of believing in the soul's potential divinity) in its pursuit of Moksha.
• Types of Yoga in Jainism: The text discusses various interpretations and classifications of Yoga within Jainism, including:
  • Dravya Yoga and Bhava Yoga: External practices versus internal realization.
  • Nishchaya Yoga and Vyavahar Yoga: Ultimate truth and conventional truth as paths to Yoga.
  • Five types of Yoga (from Yogabindu): Adhyatma Yoga, Bhavana Yoga, Dhyana Yoga, Samata Yoga, and Vritti Samkshaya Yoga.
  • Four types of meditation: Pindastha (body-based), Padastha (word/mantra-based), Rupastha (form-based), and Rupateeta (formless).
  • Karma Yoga and Jnaana Yoga: The interplay and importance of action and knowledge.
  • Bhakti Yoga: Devotion, particularly to the Tirthankaras, is also recognized as a path.
  • Kausarga: A specific Jain practice of stillness and detachment from the body, considered a highly effective meditative practice.
• Yoga and Daily Life: Jain Yoga is not merely an ascetic pursuit but is integrated into daily living through ethical disciplines, vows, and rituals.

4. Specific Yogic Practices and Concepts:

• Dhyana (Meditation): The text elaborates on various aspects of meditation, including its importance, types (Dravya Dhyana, Bhava Dhyana), and detailed descriptions of Artadhyana (meditation born of suffering) and Raudradhyana (meditation born of cruelty) as negative states to be avoided, and Dharmadhyana (meditation on Dharma) and Shukladhyana (pure meditation) as positive paths. It also discusses the four types of contemplation (Ajnana Vichaya, Apaya Vichaya, Vipaka Vichaya, Samsthana Vichaya).
• Pranayama: Mentioned as a vital component of Yoga for controlling breath and life force, with specific techniques described for managing emotions like anger, fear, and lethargy.
• Asanas: References are made to various postures mentioned in Jain scriptures and texts like Hemchandracharya's Yogashastra.
• Other Traditions: The book also explores Yoga in the context of other Indian traditions like Vedanta (especially Adi Shankaracharya's interpretation of Yoga as Brahmachintan) and Buddhism (with emphasis on Anapana Sati and Vipassana meditation, the Eightfold Path, and the Bodhisattva path). It also touches upon Swami Vivekananda's synthesis of four Yogas (Karma, Bhakti, Raja, Gnaana) and their impact, Paramahansa Yogananda's Kriya Yoga, and the Hare Krishna movement's emphasis on devotion to Krishna.
• Kundalini Yoga: Briefly touches upon the concept of Kundalini, its origins, and its relation to the chakras.
• Kausarga: Explained as a significant Jain practice involving detachment from the body, described in detail with its types and benefits.
• Preksha Meditation: Highlighted as a modern Jain meditation technique developed by Acharya Mahaprajna, rooted in ancient Jain scriptures and combining scientific principles with spiritual practice.

5. The Role of Acharyas and Gurus:

• The text underscores the importance of qualified Gurus and spiritual guides in the journey of Yoga. It emphasizes that scriptures are mere signposts, and true understanding and Siddhi (accomplishment) come from experienced teachers.

6. Conclusion:

• The book aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Yoga, particularly from a Jain perspective, while also contextualizing it within the broader spectrum of Indian spiritual thought. It emphasizes that Yoga is not just about physical postures but a holistic science and art of living that leads to inner peace, self-realization, and ultimately, liberation.

In essence, "Yogmargni Antdrashti" is a scholarly yet accessible exploration of Yoga, deeply rooted in Jain philosophy, but also drawing parallels and distinctions with other major Indian spiritual traditions. It aims to illuminate the path of Yoga for seekers, emphasizing its transformative power for a balanced and purposeful life.