Yogshastra

This is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Yogshastra" by Shravak Bhimsinh Manek, based on the Gujarati translation.

Book Title: Yogshastra (Also known as Adhyatmopanishad) Author: Acharya Hemchandracharya (Original Sanskrit text) Gujarati Translation by: Pandit Shravak Hiralal V. Hansraj (from Jamnagar) Published by: Shravak Bhimsinh Manek Publisher: Shravak Bhimsinh Manek Publication Year: Samvat 1955 (1899 CE)

Overall Summary:

The provided text is a Gujarati translation of Acharya Hemchandracharya's "Yogshastra," a significant Jain scripture. The translation, compiled and published by Shravak Bhimsinh Manek, aims to make this profound text accessible to Gujarati readers by including the original Sanskrit verses, their meanings, and explanations of the commentary. The text is highly regarded and widely known, even in Western academic circles, for its comprehensive treatment of various subjects.

Key Aspects and Themes:

1. Introduction to Acharya Hemchandracharya: The introduction highlights Acharya Hemchandracharya as a renowned scholar and spiritual leader from the 12th century Vikram Samvat, who flourished during the reign of King Kumarpal of Gujarat. His vast literary output covered numerous subjects, including grammar, lexicography, logic, literature, poetry, drama, yoga, ethics, and detachment. His profound knowledge and prolific writing are emphasized, with hundreds of influential works attributed to him.

2. "Yogshastra" as a Key Work: The "Yogshastra" is presented as a central work within Hemchandracharya's oeuvre, also referred to as "Adhyatmopanishad." The original Sanskrit text and its commentary are mentioned, noting that Hemchandracharya himself commented on the first four chapters (Prakash) of the twelve that comprise the "Yogshastra."

3. Purpose of the Gujarati Translation: The translation was undertaken because the original Sanskrit text might not be universally understood in the current era. The translator, Pandit Hiralal V. Hansraj, was commissioned by Shravak Bhimsinh Manek to provide a pure Gujarati translation. The translation includes the original verses, their meanings, and simplified explanations of the commentary, along with brief narratives for context.

4. Content and Structure (Table of Contents): The detailed table of contents reveals the extensive scope of the "Yogshastra." It is divided into twelve "Prakash" (chapters), each covering various aspects of Jain philosophy, ethics, and spiritual practice. The early chapters focus on:

   • Mangalacharan (Invocation): Salutations to Jinendra.
   • Praise of Lord Mahavir: A brief life sketch.
   • Nature and Fruit of Yoga: Defining yoga and its benefits.
   • Importance of Yoga: Illustrated through stories like those of King Rūpadeva, Marudevā Mata, and Dridha Prahaari, and Chilatiputra.
   • Samyaɡ Jñāna, Darśana, and Cāritra: Explanations of right knowledge, right perception, and right conduct, including the core principles like the nine tattvas, eleven vows (for ascetics), and the five great vows and five observances for householders.
   • The Twelve Vows of Householders (Śrāvaka Vratas): Detailed explanations of the vows, including concepts like Mithyatva (false belief), the characteristics of good and bad deities, gurus, and religion.
   • The Five Minor Vows (Aṇuvratas): In-depth discussions on Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy/chastity), and Parigraha (non-possession), often illustrated with stories and their consequences.
   • The Three Modifications of Vows (Guṇavratas): Digvirati (restriction of direction), Bhoga-upabhoga-virati (restriction of consumption), and Anartha-danda-virati (avoiding purposeless faults).
   • The Five Auxiliary Vows (Śikṣāvratas): Sāmayika (equanimity), Proṣadha (fasting on specific days), Pausadha-upasarga (fasting with devotion), Ātithisamvibhāga (charity to deserving guests), and Brahmacarya (celibacy/chastity).
   • The Twelve Reflections (Bhāvanās): Discussed in relation to the vows.
   • The Fourteen Precepts (Prakīrṇaka): Including the concept of "Śiha" (asceticism) and "Gūpti" (restraint).
   • The Eleven Stages of Lay Vows (Pratimā): Describing the progression of spiritual practice for householders.
   • The Twelve "Prakāśas" (Chapters): The latter half delves into more profound yogic practices, including Prāṇāyāma (breath control), various meditative techniques (Piṇḍastha, Padmastha, Rūpastha, Rūpātīta dhyāna), the nature of the soul, control of senses, mental purification, and the pursuit of ultimate liberation. It also touches upon concepts like subtle energy channels (nāḍīs), celestial influences (kāla-jñāna), and even esoteric knowledge.

5. Illustrative Stories: The text is rich with illustrative stories and examples from Jain tradition, used to elucidate complex philosophical and ethical concepts. These narratives serve as moral lessons and demonstrations of the principles being taught.

6. Emphasis on Non-Violence (Ahiṃsā): Ahimsa is clearly a central theme, discussed extensively in relation to various vows and actions. The text discourages causing harm to any living being, even plants, unnecessarily.

7. Sermons on Right Conduct: The "Yogshastra" provides guidance on a disciplined and ethical way of life, covering daily routines, ethical principles, and the path to spiritual liberation.

8. Correctness and Correction: The preface acknowledges the possibility of errors due to oversight and kindly requests learned readers to correct them, indicating a commitment to accuracy and refinement.

In essence, the "Yogshastra" as presented in this Gujarati translation is a comprehensive guide to the Jain path of liberation, emphasizing self-discipline, ethical conduct, right knowledge, right perception, right faith, and the practice of yoga as a means to attain spiritual purity and ultimate salvation.