Self Awareness Through Meditation

Author(s): Ranjitsingh Kumat
Publisher: Ranjitsingh Kumat

Page 50

MAIN PRACTICES OF JAIN RELIGION
to marry and has to observe full sexual restraint. In case of non-ascetics, the people are allowed to marry but the sexual activity is limited to one's spouse only. In case of ‘Aparigraha' or non-accumulation of wealth, the ascetic is ordained not to collect or accumulate any wealth like gold, jewels, money, animals, etc., or get opulent through someone or commend the acquisition. The non-ascetic, however, can accumulate but within a limit imposed by himself. Limitless accumulation is cause of misery not only to self but to others too. Right conduct through these pledges is the primary step to check the in-flow of new 'karmas'.
These very pledges or vows have been called “Sheela” in Buddhism and ‘Yama' in Yoga Darshana. In Buddhism, however, the ‘aparigraha' or nonaccumulation has been replaced by the vow of abstinence from intoxicants. But in Yoga the vows are the same and with the same qualification that observance of pledges without exception of time, place and cause are called “Mahavrata”.
Samayika or Equanimity
In Jain system of practices, “Samayika' occupies the prime place. It is done for one Muhurta or 48 minutes by sitting at one place and abstaining from foul activity through thought, speech and body. During this period normally people pray, chant or meditate. But the main purpose is to attain equanimity by prayer as also by introspection of the self.
The word “Samayika' is composed of two words 'Sama or equanimity and Aayika' or the in-flow. The in-flow of equanimity in one's state of mind leading to equanimous behaviour is called 'Samayika'. Acharya Bhadrabahu has stated about Samayika as follows:
"To remain tranquil, equanimous and sinless without disturbing the state of mental equilibrium when faced either with gold or grass, friend or foe, and not swept away by feelings of craving and aversion, is called Samayika. For to be in equanimity is Samayika. 949
There are two types of “Samayika'. One is called the ‘Dravya' or physical Samayika. To sit in a particular dress in a peaceful place for prayer, meditation, etc for a fixed time of 48 minutes abstaining oneself from foul activities of mind, speech and body is physical Samayika. The real or internal or 'Bhava Samayika' means to be in a state of equanimity irrespective of place, dress or time. Whether we are walking, eating, sleeping or engaged in our daily