Yogshatak

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Yogshatak" by Indukala Hirachand Zaveri, based on the provided pages:

Overview:

"Yogshatak" is a significant Jain text authored by the renowned ancient Jain Acharya Shri Haribhadra Suri. This particular edition, published by Gujarat Vidyasabha in 1956, is a meticulously edited and annotated version with a detailed introduction and commentary by Dr. Indukala Hirachand Zaveri. The book aims to present the essence of yoga within the Jain tradition, exploring its nature, the qualifications of its practitioners, the necessary preparations, and the progressive stages of attainment.

Key Content and Structure:

The book is structured into several sections, including an introduction, the main text of Yogshatak with explanations, and appendices.

1. Introduction (Prastavana):

   • Manuscript Details (Prati Parichay): Dr. Zaveri begins by detailing the discovery of the manuscript of "Yogshatak." It was found in the Khambhat Shantinath Jain Bhandar by the scholar Muni Shri Punyavijayji. The manuscript is written on palm leaves and contains seven works, with "Yogshatak" being one of them. The manuscript's physical characteristics, script, and estimated dating (late 12th or early 13th century CE) are discussed.
   • Author Introduction (Granthakar): The introduction provides extensive information about Acharya Shri Haribhadra Suri, considered the author of "Yogshatak."
     • Time Period (Sattasamy): His period is established through historical evidence and scholarly consensus, placing him between the 8th and 9th centuries CE (757-827 CE), correcting earlier estimations.
     • Life and Work (Jeevanvrutt): It details Haribhadra's background, his conversion to Jainism, his guru Jinbhatt Suri, and his spiritual mother Yakshini Mahattara. His extensive literary contributions across various fields of Jain philosophy and literature are highlighted, including works on logic, philosophy, and commentary on Jain Agamas.
     • Specific Contributions (Vishisht Phala): Haribhadra's unique contributions are categorized:
       • Storyteller (Kathakar): His skill in narrative is exemplified by his work "Samarāditya Kathā" (Samarāditya Charitra), praised for its eloquence and structure.
       • Philosopher (Tattvachintak): His philosophical prowess is evident in works like "Anekānta Jayapatākā" (establishing Anekānta Vāda), "Shāstravārtāsamuccaya" (presenting comparative philosophy with great liberality and synthesis), and "Ṣaḍdarśanasamuccaya" (presenting six philosophies, including the heterodox Chārvāka, with a unique perspective). He is noted for his reconciliation of different philosophical viewpoints and his ability to present complex ideas with nuance.
       • Achar-researcher (Āchāra Samshodhak): His critical analysis of the deviations within the Jain monastic order (Sangh) in works like "Sambodhaprakaraṇa" is highlighted, along with his constructive suggestions for reform. He is also recognized for his foundational work in defining householder duties ("Dharmabindu") by integrating practical aspects with spiritual goals, which was a novel approach.
       • Yogabhyasi (Yog Practitioner): Haribhadra's significant contribution to Jain yoga literature is emphasized. He is credited with being the first to systematically present yoga within the Jain framework, using unique terminology and comparing it with Vedic, Buddhist, and Sāṁkhya yoga. His major yoga works include "Yogabindu," "Yogadṛṣṭisamuccaya," "Yogashataka," and "Yogaviṁśikā."

2. The Text of "Yogshatak" and Explanations (Yogshatak – Mūla ane Samajuti):

   • Invocation (Namaskār): The text begins with an invocation to Lord Mahavira as the "Yoginath" and "leader of yoga," highlighting the importance of yoga in his teachings.
   • Nature of Yoga (Yoga nu Swaroop):
     • Nishcaya Drishti (Ultimate Reality Perspective): Yoga is defined as the connection of the soul with correct knowledge, perception, and conduct (Samyagjnana, Samyagdarshan, Samyagcharitra), leading to liberation. This is considered the direct cause of Moksha.
     • Vyavahāra Drishti (Conventional Perspective): Yoga is also understood through the means that lead to the manifestation of correct knowledge, perception, and conduct. This includes virtuous practices, adherence to scriptural injunctions, guru-devotion, study, and adherence to disciplines. This is considered the indirect cause of Moksha.
   • Stages of Attainment (Siddhhi): The text outlines the progressive stages of yoga practice.
     • Apunarbhandhak (Non-re-binding): The initial stage where karmic influx is reduced, and the practitioner makes efforts to cultivate good qualities.
     • Samyagdṛṣṭi (Correct Perception): The stage characterized by a clear understanding of reality, adherence to Jain principles, and initial steps towards detachment.
     • Charitrī (Right Conduct): The stage of progressive adherence to vows and conduct, leading towards liberation.
     • Other Stages: The text further elaborates on the qualifications and progress of yogis at different levels, emphasizing the importance of the right approach and the gradual nature of spiritual development.
   • Comparative Yoga (Vaidika, Bauddha ane Jain Yogāngāni Tulana): Dr. Zaveri extensively compares Jain yoga concepts with Sāṁkhya, Yoga, and Buddhist traditions, highlighting similarities and differences in terminology, practices, and goals. This comparative study is a major strength of the introduction and explanation.
   • The Nature of Yoga and its Stages: The commentary explains the meaning of "yoga" as union and its various interpretations across different traditions, particularly focusing on how Haribhadra integrates them within a Jain framework.
   • Practices and Qualifications: The text discusses various practices like meditation, ethical conduct, austerities, and the importance of a Guru. It also clarifies who is eligible for yoga practice and who is not.
   • Consequences of Practice: The benefits of yoga, including the attainment of psychic powers (Siddhis/Vibhutis) and ultimate liberation (Moksha), are discussed.
   • Mind-Body Connection: The emphasis on mental cultivation (Bhāvanā) over mere physical actions is a recurring theme.
   • Cause and Effect (Karma): The relationship between soul (Jiva), matter (Karma), and their interaction is explained, highlighting the role of spiritual discipline in severing this bond.
   • Death and Time (Kāla): The text touches upon understanding the timing of death and its connection to spiritual preparedness.
   • Special Efforts for Anashan: The importance of purity in the practice of fasting (Anashan) is underscored.
   • Desire for Liberation (Bhavaviraha): The text mentions Haribhadra's own name possibly being associated with this concept.

3. Appendices (Parishishta):

   • Charamāvart: An explanation of this Jain technical term related to the soul's journey through cycles of existence.
   • Apunarbhandhak: Further explanation of this stage of spiritual progress.
   • Vibhūti: Details about psychic powers attained through yoga.
   • Kālagnyāna: Knowledge of time and its implications.
   • Stages of Spiritual Development and Meditation: A comparative analysis of stages in Jain, Buddhist, and other traditions.
   • List of Haribhadra's Works: A comprehensive catalog of his known writings.

Editor's Contribution:

Dr. Indukala Zaveri's contribution is invaluable. Her doctoral thesis on the "Comparative Study of Sāṁkhya and Jain Theory of Causation" demonstrates her deep research capabilities. For this edition, she performed extensive research, compared manuscripts, clarified difficult passages, and provided extensive commentary and a comparative analysis of Jain yoga with other Indian philosophical schools. She acknowledges the significant help received from various scholars and institutions, including Muni Shri Punyavijayji, Acharya Shri Jinavijayji, Prof. Rasiklal Chhotalal Parekh, Pt. Sukhlalji, and others. The Diamond Jubilee Printing Press and Shri Jethalal Gandhi of Gujarat Vidya Sabha are also acknowledged for their roles in publication.

Overall Significance:

"Yogshatak" by Acharya Haribhadra Suri, as presented by Dr. Zaveri, is a foundational text for understanding yoga within the Jain philosophical and practical framework. It highlights Haribhadra's unique ability to synthesize and present complex spiritual concepts in an accessible manner, making it relevant for both scholars and practitioners. The book serves as a testament to the depth and breadth of Jain thought on spiritual discipline and liberation.