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17-JAIN YOGA
17- Jain Yoga
Yoga is defined as a systematic methodized effort to balance and direct various levels of one's own energy for self-perfection or for a union of the human individual with the universal transcendent Existence. This does not refer only to the physical body, but the entire being, including the intellectual and emotional processes.
Yoga is a science that helps man communicate with his body, mind, and soul. Yoga is based on physical, mental, intellectual, moral, and spiritual disciplines. When man has complete control over his physical, mental, and intellectual energies, he can lead a positive life. By practicing yoga regularly, man attains mastery over himself. Yoga lays the foundation for purity in actions, emotions, and intellect.
However, many misconceptions exist regarding the purpose and meaning of yoga among Jain communities, such as; yoga is a part of the Hindu religion; yoga means sitting in exasperating postures for hours at a time; yoga only brings peace and happiness.
A. Meaning of Yoga in Jain Tradition
The word yoga has been used in Jaina philosophy in several different ways.
Any activity or intension which attaches soul to the liberation is called yoga. In other words, any activity which purifies the mind by freeing it from attachment and aversion is called yoga.
Purification of the mind creates an awareness of the qualities of the soul and assists it in the destruction of the Karmas. It consists of practicing the three jewels of Right Conviction, Right Knowledge and Right Conduct, leading to liberation. This view is propounded by Ächärya Haribhadra-suri in Yoga Vinshikä and Ächärya Amitagati in Yogasära-Prabrata.
In Jain Ägam literature, it is said that liberation can be attained by innumerable types of Yogas. Even walking, staying, eating and earning a living becomes yoga if it is done with full awareness of self and according to guidance shown by Tirthankaras or Jinas.
JAINISM AND SPIRITUAL AWAKENING
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