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In the Upanishadic literature, we find the famous trio of Shravana, Manana and Nididhyasana.
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In Buddhism also, we find the trio of Pragna, Sheel and Samadhi.
The Christian and Sufi saints who climbed to the top of the ladder of mystic experience(2), reached the transcendental state of meditation in which SelfRealization is accomplished.
THE JAINOLOGICAL APPROACH
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In the Jain tradition, the path of Self-Realization is accomplished by a synergistic and balanced combination of enlightened faith, enlightened knowledge and enlightened conduct (three jewels) which leads to inner purification and unfolds inherent potentialities like humility, forgiveness, forebearance, truthfulness, contentment and so forth.
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The chief means to accomplish this noblest task will be considered under the following four main headings:
I. II. III. IV.
Satsanga (Holy Association) Swadhyaya (Scriptural Studies) Virtuosity (Spiritual Growth) Meditation
I. Satsanga (Holy Association)
Appropriate, intentional and planned association is one such activity of life that always produces its impact on the participants; hence the saying "Man is influenced by the company he keeps". The association with holy saints and enlightened scholars with visionary knowledge and pious conduct is the main source of drawing sublime inspiration for purifying the aspirant and to enhance the piety of his overall personality. He learns not only from their sermons but from their day to day activities which are surcharged with divinity. The unique and extraordinary benefits which Satsanga bestows upon the aspirant have been very aptly, clearly and authentically depicted in modern Jain literature by Shrimad Rajchandra(3, 4), the spiritual guide of Mahatma Gandhi.
The great saint-philosopher, Shri Shankaracarya describes the fruits of Satsanga as follows:
