ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 04

Author(s): International School for Jain Studies
Publisher: International School for Jain Studies

Page 508

This can be achieved in a number of ways based on self-realization through introspection, meditation and contemplation on the nature of the pure state of the soul. Some of the important and effective practices and rituals recommended in the Jain way of life are mentioned below.
3.1. Six Essentials (avshyakas)
Six essential Practices/ Duties recommended to be performed daily are:
1) Equanimity (Sämäyika) 2) Worship the twenty-four Tirthankars (Chaturvimshati-stava) 3) Salutations to Ascetics (Vandana) 4) Introspection and Repentance (Pratikraman) 5) Non-attachment to the Body (Käyotsarga) 6) Vows of Renunciation (Pratyakhyana / Pachchakhana)
In the present context Samayik and Pratikraman are most important.
3.1.1. Equanimity (Samayik)
The concept of Samayik is unique to Jainism. Samayik has its origin from the word 'sam, meaning equal. It is also related to word 'Samay' (time) and has been used in Jain scriptures to denote Soul. Thus, Samayik is a process of practicing equanimity for purifying the soul (eliminating karmic-bondage) for a period of time. Important components of Samayik are the study of scriptures (Swadhyaya), contemplation (Anupreksha) and meditation (Dhyan). Samayik should be practiced for at least 48 minutes (1 muhurat) every day to eliminate feelings of affection and aversion (Rag and Dvesha) to cultivate a state of detachment and equanimity (Veetragata) free of passions (kashaya).
3.1.1.1. Twelve Contemplations (Barah Anupreksha / Bhavana)
Equanimity comes from non-attachment which, in turn, is cultivated through contemplation on the following twelve aspects of reality:
1. Impermanence: Nothing in this universe is permanent; all worldly objects are subject to constant change. This reflection leads to the feeling of non-attachment.
2. Helplessness: Nothing can protect against death which is unavoidable
3. Solitariness: Every soul comes alone to occupy its individual body. Every individual is born alone and dies alone. The self alone is responsible for one's thoughts, actions and deeds
4. Distinctness: The body and soul are entirely different, distinct and separate entities.
5. Rebirth: Souls bonded by karmic matter transmigrate to various bodies and thus revolve in the cycle of life, death and rebirth in various life forms.
6. Nature of the universe: The universe is eternal and is governed according to its own laws. It consists of entities that evolve continuously according to their intrinsic attributes. New forms appear (Utapada) and old ones disappear (Vyaya) but the basic entity remains unchanged (Dhrauvaya).
7. Impurity of physical body: It is deep delusion to think of our bodies to be pure. The feeling of attachment to the impure body should be discarded since it is only a vehicle for spiritual advancement.
8. Influx of karma: Activities of mind, speech and body associated with delusion, anger, pride, deceit and greed, under the influence of past karmas, induce the influx of new karmas. The karmic influx is responsible for the continued mundane existence of the soul through the cycles of rebirth.
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STUDY NOTES version 4.0