________________
practice the acquired knowledge through proper discrimination, by accepting the truthful and rejecting the falsehood, it becomes wisdom. When the wisdom becomes profound and condensed, a state of magnanimous equanimity develops, gradually leading to Self-Realization.
IV. Meditation
In the Jainological method of spiritual betterment, meditation has been accepted universally as a supreme instrument to attain salvation. Consequently, among the twelve types of austerity(20), it has been considered of the highest value for the aspirant's progress. The last Tirthankara of the Jain tradition, Lord Mahavira, practiced the states of advanced meditation for a period of twelve and a half years with unique self-control and attained omniscience and consequently, has been accepted by all the world historians, as one of the greatest champions of meditation.
When properly practiced, this is the most important step leading to rapid attainment of self-control and quietude of mind. If one is able to purify his mind and concentrate it intensely on the true and absolute nature of one's own Self, real equanimity dawns resulting in Self-Realization.
With increasing worthiness acquired by the above practices, the aspirant should also bear the following important points in his mind during the practice of meditation.
1)
Place and Posture: These should preferably be such that they are conducive to quietude and steadiness of the mind. Such places may be worship-room, temple, monastery, pilgrimage center or more secluded places. The posture should be steady and such as not to produce any tension in any part of the body. In addition to the classical postures like Padmasana, Ardhapadmasana, Sukhasana and Siddhasana, the Jain tradition has developed a unique technique of meditating even in an upright posture (Kayotsarga)(21).
Work and Food: Both of these should be moderate. Too much eating or too much physical exertion has a detrimental effect on meditational success(22, 23)
iii)
Regularity and Continuity: As success in the path of meditation is a long-drawn process, ups and downs are often experienced, and hence, regularity in practice and continuity in efforts will minimize such ups and downs and infuse enthusiasm in the aspirant for acquiring serenity and quietude of the mind during the periods of the meditation. Repeated remembrances of Godhood, other worshipful personalities, objects, and one's true Self during the daily routine is very helpful. Recitation of the
