Jaina Mysticism and Other Essays

SR No.: 006933
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Kamalchand Sogani
Publisher: Prakrit Bharti Academy
Publication Year: 2002
Total Pages: 166
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 17 MB

Page 159

Brahman. In the Gītā, Saguna devotion, as differentiated from the Nirguna one; which is difficult for the mundane souls, has been envisaged as a means for the realisation of the Supreme which is incapable of being attained either by the Vedas or by austerities, or by gifts or by sacrifices.9s One-pointed and unswerving devotion is indispensable to the transcending of the three Gunas.” But, of the four types of Bhaktas, namely, the sufferer, the seeker for knowledge, the person who is eager for wealth and the wise, the last is the best because of his impersonal and absolute devotion.97 Again, the Gită says that eyen of the yogt, as distinguished from those engrossed in mere external ascèticism, intellectual knowledge and rituals, the greatest is the devotee.9% Hence, devotion cannot be dispensed with for higher ascension. The recognition of Bhakti as an integral constituent of the sixteen kinds of reflection, its inclusion in the six essentials of the Muni, 100 and in the daily life of the householder in the form of Jinapujā, Sāmāyika, Vaiyāvíttya etc. illustrate the emphasis laid by Jainism on devotion as indispensable to spiritual advancement. The Mokšapāhuda tells us that divested of the ātman, externalism, extraneous penances, scriptural learning, observance of the manifold rules of conduct, — all these are preposterous and puerile.101 He who is devoted to the Deva and the Guru and to ascetics following right conduct and pursuing meditation, is established in the path of liberation. 102 Saguna, Bhakti may be equated with the aforementioned types of devotion; and the Nirguna.one, with the supreme meditation which is not only difficult but also not possible in the initial stages of Yoga. The devo.tion of the distinguished yogzwill be free from the three Šalys, namely, Māyā (deceit), Mithyi (perversity) and Nidāna(desire for worldly benefits). The three lower types of devotees described in the Gitā may be said to possess Nidāna Šalya according to Jainism.
Effects of Yoga and the element of Grace
Clear complexion, sweet voice, the emission of good smell, extraordinary decrease in excretions, the possession of a light and healthy body and freedom from sensual indulgence, — all these are the physiological effects of Yoga or deep meditation.103 The spiritual effect consists in the disintegration of sorrows and bonds, which re
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Jaina Mysticism and other essays