Sambodhi 2007 Vol 31

Author(s): J B Shah
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad

Page 10

HARIBHADRASŪRĪCĀCĀRYA) ON YOGA*
HEENA KOTAK
Introduction
Jainism, one of the major philosophical systems, has preserved archaic type of spirituality based mainly on practising penance (tapa). Philosophical theories are much more emphasized and explained in Jainism though all religions and philosophical systems have expanded them. Philosophy and Yoga-sadhanā have not developed independently of each other because all systems of philosophy have some corresponding yoga techniques for the practical application of their doctrines. The experimental method of yoga requires to be more emphasized because that alone can open up its great treasures. A system for practical realization results from yogic practices and that pragmatic system and technique is Yoga. Yoga, according to Jainism, is the cause of emancipation (Moksa)? . Jain Yoga mainly comprises complete course of moral disciplines leading to the purification of the mind. It emphasizes mainly on Knowledge (Jñāna), faith in the teachings of the Jain tirthankaras (śraddhā) and Right Conduct (cāritra).
The word Jain and Jainism are derived from the Sanskrit root- ji which meaiis to conquer. A Jain is one who believes in conquering the flesh in order to attain that Supreme purity which leads to infinite knowledge, infinite happiness and infinite power.2 Lord Mahāvīra has developed the system of Jain Yoga by making additions in the very structure of Jain Yoga which came down from Pārsvanātha. Thereafter, Umāsvāti compiled all Jain doctrines and Yogic concepts -in Tattvārthasūtras, the authentic treatise for Jainas. Then, Haribhadrasürī or
* Paper has been presented in the National seminar organized by SKSD Jain Academy, The
M. S. University of Baroda.