Transmutation of Personality through Preksha Meditation

Author(s): Tulsi Acharya
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati

Page 98

preserve both his physical and mental energy and becomes luminous. He does not allow his urges to grow licentious. Contrary to this, the lack of brahmcharya makes for uninhibited lust and creates difficulties in the path of inner observation. From the point of view of self-realization and preservation of energy, the practice of brahmcharya makes an important contribution towards the creation of the right background for dhyana. The fifth vow is non-acquisitiveness. The fruit of non-possessiveness is alert awareness. Unconsciousness is a bondage. An attached mind cannot be introvertive. It remains identified with both body and matter. The thicker the layers of attachment, the more densely is purity clouded. In order to dissolve the layers of attachment, it is necessary to strengthen through constant practice the spirit of non-possessiveness.
Non-violence, truth, non-stealing, brahmcharya and non-possessiveness are the means of keeping the purity of the mind intact, and are therefore, called the fundamental virtues. It is on the basis of their strength that meditation can progress. A person whose conduct is not absolutely guileless, does not deserve to be a dhyanee. Without the practice of a mahavrat or anuvrata, one's conduct cannot be straightforward. Violence, untruth, stealing, lust, possessiveness-all promote cunning and deceit. The ground of meditation cannot be cleared in the face of dodging and duplicity. Therefore, the observance of the vows has its own importance in a sadhak's life.
Q. Even while living in a spiritual environment, why is a man's mind assailed by evil tendencies like violence, untruth, etc.? Some sadhaks cannot rid themselves of these tendencies, despite their desire to be free. Why?
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