Yogshatak Granth Ek Aadhyayan

The document provided is a scholarly thesis titled "Yogashatak Granth Ek Adhyayan" (A Study of the Yogashatak Granth) by Jagruti Nalin Gheewala, submitted to the Antarrashtriya Jainvidya Adhyayan Kendra, Mahadev Desai Samajseva Mahavidyalaya, Gujarat Vidyapith, Ahmedabad in 2011 for an M.Phil. degree in Jain Studies. The thesis, guided by Dr. Purnimabhen Mehta, explores the Jain perspective on Yoga, focusing on the influential work "Yogashatak" by the renowned Jain Acharya Haribhadrasuri.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the thesis, broken down by its chapters:

Overall Purpose: The thesis aims to provide a detailed study of the Yogashatak Granth, an important Jain text on Yoga, and to understand the concept of Yoga within the broader framework of Jain philosophy and literature. It delves into the life and works of Acharya Haribhadrasuri, the author of Yogashatak, and analyzes the philosophical and practical aspects of Jain Yoga as presented in the text.

Chapter 1: A Brief Introduction to Jain Philosophy This chapter lays the foundation by outlining the core principles of Jainism. It covers:

• Tripadi: The fundamental truth of existence: origination, cessation, and permanence.
• Six Dravyas (Substances): The six fundamental categories of reality according to Jainism (Jiva, Ajiva, Dharmastikaya, Adharmastikaya, Akashaastikaya, Kalastikaya).
• Nine Tattvas (Realities): The nine essential elements that explain the cycle of existence and liberation (Jiva, Ajiva, Punya, Papa, Ashrava, Samvara, Nirjara, Bandha, Moksha).
• Karma Theory: The Jain concept of karma, its binding nature, and its role in the cycle of birth and death.
• Anekantavada (Doctrine of Manifold Aspects): The Jain principle of relativity and non-absolutism, emphasizing that truth can be viewed from multiple perspectives.
• Moksha Marga (Path to Liberation): The ultimate goal of Jainism, achieved through Right Faith (Samyak Darshan), Right Knowledge (Samyak Gyan), and Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra).
• Shramanacharya and Shravakacharya: The conduct and vows for ascetics (monks and nuns) and lay followers, respectively, highlighting the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy/chastity), and Aparigraha (non-possession).

Chapter 2: Yoga in Jain Literature This chapter surveys the historical development and understanding of Yoga within Jain literature across different eras:

• Meaning and Definition of Yoga: It explores the etymology of the word 'Yoga' and its various interpretations in Jain philosophy, including its connection to liberation (Moksha).
• Yoga in the Agam Period (Pre-Christian Era to 7th Century CE): It highlights that in this period, Yoga was primarily understood through Tapas (austerities) and Dhyana (meditation), as found in the Jain Agamas.
• Yoga in the Medieval Period (8th to 14th Century CE): This era saw comparative studies of Yoga, with Jain Acharyas integrating and differentiating Jain Yoga from Vedic and Buddhist traditions. Prominent Acharyas like Haribhadrasuri and Hemachandracharya are discussed for their contributions.
• Yoga in the Modern Period (15th Century CE to Present): The chapter traces the continuation and evolution of Yoga studies in Jainism, including commentaries on Vedic texts and new interpretations of Yoga.
• Types and Classifications of Yoga: It outlines the various classifications and types of Yoga mentioned in Jain scriptures.
• Types of Yogis: The different categories of individuals practicing Yoga are described.

Chapter 3: The Importance of Meditation in Jain Yoga This chapter focuses on the crucial role of meditation (Dhyana) in Jain Yoga:

• Meaning and Definition of Meditation: It defines meditation as a process of focusing the mind on a single object or subject, leading to inner stillness.
• Nature of Meditation: It explains that true meditation goes beyond mere physical postures or breath control; it involves the integration of mind, speech, and body towards a spiritual goal.
• Four Types of Meditation: It categorizes meditation into two broad types: Aprashasta (unfavorable) - Artadhyana (sorrowful meditation) and Raudradhyana (fierce meditation), and Prashasta (favorable) - Dharmadhyana (meditation on Dharma) and Shukladhyana (pure meditation), which lead to spiritual progress and liberation.
• Factors for Successful Meditation: It lists the essential elements and practices that contribute to successful meditation, such as detachment, control of senses, consistent practice, and guidance from a Guru.
• The Triad of Meditator, Meditated, and Meditation: It explains the interconnectedness of the one who meditates (Dhyata), the object of meditation (Dhyeya), and the process of meditation itself (Dhyana).
• Preksha Meditation: It introduces Preksha Meditation, a modern Jain meditation technique developed by Acharya Mahapragya, emphasizing self-observation and present-moment awareness.

Chapter 4: Life and Works of Acharya Shri Haribhadrasuri, the Author of Yogashatak This chapter is dedicated to the biography and literary contributions of Acharya Haribhadrasuri, the author of the Yogashatak Granth:

• Outline of Acharya Haribhadrasuri's Life: It details his background, including his birthplace (possibly Bambhupuri near Chittor), his parents (Shankar Bhatt and Ganga), his era (estimated 8th Century CE), his early education as a Brahmin scholar, his influential motto "Bhavaviraha" (absence of worldly existence), his role in establishing the Porwad community within Jainism, and his peaceful death (Samadhi Maran).
• Five Distinct Qualities of Acharya Haribhadrasuri: It highlights his remarkable attributes such as equanimity (Samattva), comparative analysis (Tulana), respect for other traditions (Bahumanavriti), a new perspective and gift to his own tradition, and his mastery of inner spiritual practices.
• Comparative Perspective in Yogashatak: It discusses how Haribhadrasuri used comparative analysis in Yogashatak, integrating insights from different philosophical schools.
• Works of Acharya Haribhadrasuri: It provides a comprehensive list of his numerous literary contributions, categorized into: Agamic texts, texts on conduct and teachings, philosophical texts, Yoga-related texts, narrative texts, astrological texts, and devotional hymns.
• Reverence for Jinagamas: It emphasizes Haribhadrasuri's deep respect and devotion to the Jain scriptures (Jinagamas).
• Brief Introduction to Haribhadrasuri's Yoga Works: It specifically mentions his key Yoga texts like Yogabindu, Yogadrishti Samucchaya, Yogashatak, and Shodashak Prakaran, which laid a new path for understanding Yoga in Jainism.

Chapter 5: Study of the Yogashatak Granth - Part 1 This section begins the detailed analysis of the Yogashatak Granth itself:

• Introduction to Yogashatak: It provides an overview of the text, its author, and its significance in Jain Yoga literature.
• Nature of Yoga: Nischaya Yoga and Vyavahara Yoga: It explains Yoga from two perspectives: Nischaya (ultimate or absolute) Yoga, which is the soul's union with its true nature through Right Faith, Knowledge, and Conduct, and Vyavahara (conventional or practical) Yoga, which encompasses the means to achieve Nischaya Yoga, such as Guru-vinaya (respect for the Guru) and sincere scriptural study.
• First Authority of the Yoga Path - Apunarbandhak: It describes the initial stage of a spiritual aspirant who is beginning their journey towards Yoga, characterized by avoiding intense negative actions, not valuing the cycle of rebirth, and adhering to proper conduct.
• Second Authority - Samyag-drashti: The text then discusses the second level of aspirant, one with Right Faith, marked by devotion to the principles of Jainism, veneration of Gurus and deities, and the practice of virtues.
• Third Authority - Charitree: The third category includes those with Right Conduct, divided into Desavirati (partial renunciation, lay followers) and Sarvavirati (complete renunciation, ascetics), detailing their characteristics and roles in the Yoga path.
• Method of Attaining Spiritual Stages through Yoga Sadhana: It explains the progressive steps in Yoga practice, leading to higher spiritual stages (Gunasthana).
• Special Means for Authorities of Yoga: It elaborates on specific practices and disciplines recommended for different levels of Yoga aspirants.

Chapter 5: Study of the Yogashatak Granth - Part 2 This second part of Chapter 5 delves deeper into the practical and philosophical aspects of Yoga presented in Yogashatak:

• The Relationship of Jiva and Karma: Beginningless and Endless: It discusses the eternal connection between the soul (Jiva) and Karma, a fundamental concept in Jainism.
• Nature of Raga (Attachment), Dwesha (Aversion), and Moha (Delusion): It elaborates on these three core negative emotions and their impact on the soul.
• Spiritual Realization through Counteracting Raga, Dwesha, and Moha: It explains how contemplating the opposite of these negative emotions can lead to spiritual insight.
• Description of Four Yoga Bhavanas (Meditative Contemplations): It details the four essential contemplative practices: Maitri (friendship/benevolence), Pramoda (joy in others' virtues), Karuna (compassion), and Madhyastha (equanimity).
• Dietary Practices of a Yogi: It discusses the yogic principles related to food consumption, emphasizing purity and appropriateness.
• Acquired Powers (Labdhis) through Yoga and Their Results: It describes the supernatural abilities and spiritual attainments that can arise from dedicated Yoga practice.
• Samayika as the Primary Component of Moksha: It highlights Samayika (equanimity, a state of balanced mindfulness) as the most crucial aspect for achieving liberation.
• Methods for Knowing the Time of Death: It touches upon the yogic understanding of anticipating and preparing for death, often through fasting (Anashana).

Chapter 6: Conclusion This concluding chapter summarizes the findings of the thesis and reflects on the significance of Yoga in Jainism and its relevance today.

• Relevance of Yoga in the Modern Era: It laments the decline of deep spiritual Yoga practice in the current materialistic age, while acknowledging the growing trend of physical Yoga for health benefits.
• The Importance of Inner Reflection and Spiritual Practices: It emphasizes the need to move beyond mere physical well-being and engage in practices that purify the mind and lead towards spiritual liberation, drawing parallels with the disciplined practices of past Mahatmas.
• Contribution of Yogashatak: It highlights how Yogashatak offers a unique perspective on spiritual development through Yoga, emphasizing the cultivation of virtues like equanimity, compassion, and universal friendship (Maitri).
• Personal Impact of the Study: The author expresses a personal sense of gratitude and intellectual enrichment gained from studying the profound teachings of Acharya Haribhadrasuri.
• Enduring Relevance: The thesis concludes that the teachings of Yogashatak provide a timeless guide for self-improvement, societal harmony, and ultimately, the attainment of Moksha. It also suggests that the text offers ample scope for future research.

The thesis is meticulously researched, referencing numerous Jain scriptures, commentaries, and modern scholarly works, indicated by extensive footnotes and a bibliography. It aims to revive and highlight the importance of Yoga as a central spiritual discipline within the Jain tradition, as expounded by the great Acharya Haribhadrasuri.