$JES 904 Compendium of Jainism (Jain Academic Bowl Manual 3rd Edition)

Author(s): JAINA Education Committee
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

Page 180

CONDUCT
C09 - Jain Yoga
C09 - Jain Yoga
01 Introduction Yoga is defined as a systematic effort to balance and direct various levels of one's own energy for selfperfection. It is also defined as a union of the human individual with the its existence. This does not refer only to the physical body, but the entire being, including 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 with regards to the purpose and meaning of yoga among Jain communities. Some think yoga is a part of the Hindu religion, that yoga means sitting in exasperating postures for hours at a time or that yoga only brings peace and happiness. 02 Meaning of Yoga in Jain Tradition The word yoga has been used in Jain philosophy in several different ways. Any activity or intent which helps the soul achieve 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 karmas. It consists of practicing the three jewels of Right Conviction, Right Knowledge and Right Conduct, which lead to liberation. This view is propounded by Acharya Haribhadra-suri in Yoga Vimshikä and Acharya Amitagati in Yogasära-Prabrta. In Jain Agam literature, it is said that liberation can be attained by innumerable types of Yogas. Even walking, staying, eating, and earning become yoga if they are done with full awareness of the self and according to guidance shown by Tirthankars or Jinas. Yoga is that which unites. While dealing with the topic of the influx of Karma, Acharya Umäsvämi has said that the activity of the body, speech, and mind, which creates vibration in the soul, is called yoga. Karmic matter flows into the soul through the channel or medium of activity. If such activity is accompanied by auspicious intention, it becomes the cause of merit or punya; if it is accompanied by inauspicious intension, it becomes the cause of demerit or papa. If the activity is pure, then there is no vibration in the soul and hence no bondage The word Yoga is used for Dhyana or Meditation in Jainism. 03 Four Primary Paths to Yoga Indian traditions define that there are four primary paths to yoga which lead the worldly soul to liberation. They are: 1. Bhakti Yoga (Path of Devotion)
The path of devotion aims at the enjoyment of supreme Love and Bliss. It focuses on realization of Truth (true reality, true potential) through means of devotion and surrender. Prayers, rituals, and ceremonial processes are its basic approach. Chanting, singing, and repeating Tirthankars' names are also important practices. In the initial stage of spiritual progress, a temple or a similar place is needed to practice Bhakti yoga. Ultimately, Bhakti yoga develops humility within and dissolves ego.
This is an excellent form of yoga for emotionally-oriented people. 2. Jnän Yoga (Path of Knowledge)
The path of knowledge aims at the realization of the unique and supreme self. Intellectually-oriented people prefer this path because it uses study, thinking, direct inquiry, and contemplation as its practices. This path is typified by spiritual discrimination between what is real (true reality) and what is unreal or illusion (Mithyätva or Mäyä) in the universe.
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Compendium of Jainism - 2015