Book Title: ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 02
Author(s): International School for Jain Studies
Publisher: International School for Jain Studies
View full book text
________________
Agamic References of Yoga Jaina tradition is an ascetic tradition and has stressed upon self-control and selfconquerance for spiritual welfare. Lord Mahāvīra the 24th Tirathamkara underwent rigorous austere and yogic practices for twelve and a half years and exercised complete silence, stillness, equanimity, compassion, renunciation, inward looking, contemplation, detachment with right attitude and right knowledge. The purpose of his yogic practices was to discover the peace within, which he eventually did after steadfast faith and total absorption of the self in the self. The Ācārānga-sūtra book I chapter 9 gives detailed information of the dhyāna Yoga of Lord Mahāvīra wherein he has been called as āyatayogi i.e. he lived in the present moment. His mind, senses, intellect, feelings and subtle dispositions were all directed towards the discovery of the self. 16 The values that he propounded after becoming enlightened are, non-violence, compassion, spirituality, self-esteem, steadfastness, equanimity, tolerance, multi-dimensional viewpoint, detachment etc. His teachings emphasized the physiological, psychological, sociological, environmental, emotional and spiritual well-being of a person. The Samavayānga sūtra enumerates the 32 aspects of Yoga and they are as follows:17
•
To confess one's sins before the spiritual master. Not to reveal the confessions of others. To be steadfast in righteousness/ Dharma. To take to austere practices with detachment. To be well versed in scriptural knowledge and put the same to practice. Not to adorn the body. Taking to austere practices and not publicizing them. Giving up greed. To practice tolerance. To be efficient in practicing self-control. To be simple, simplicity is an important trait of a Yogi. Purification of right faith. Being calm and poised. To be straightforward in practicing the vows. Being devoted to arihantas and other spiritual personages.
•
16 Acaranga-sūtra Chapter 9.4, 322 17 Samavāyānga-sūtra 32nd Samavāya
Page 258 of 385
STUDY NOTES version 5.0
