Jainism and Patanjali Yoga (Comparative Study)
by Deepak bagadia | 2016 | 109,819 words
This page relates ‘basis of Research work and Hypothesis� of the study dealing with the Spiritual Practices of Jainism and Patanjali Yoga in the context of ancient Indian Philosophy (in Sanskrit: Darshana), including extracts from the Yogasutra and the Tattvartha-Sutra. The system of Yoga offers techniques which are scientifically designed for the spiritual development of an individual. Jainism offers ethicical principles and meditation practices to assist with spiritual development.
Part 5 - The basis of Research work and Hypothesis
During the study of Jain philosophy, it was observed that its religious, ethical and moral principles are relevant and applicable to all human beings, the entire community. Just taking the example of the doctrine of anekantavada, the implementation part syadvada indicates that one should respect the other’s opinion. There is no single end or the final solution to any problem. There are many or infinite solutions to a given problem. In this manner, each opinion could be right at given time or from a view point. The principle of non-violence as described by the founder of Jainism, Lord Mahavira should be practiced by each individual taking care not to hurt others, not only human beings but all species, plants and living beings; will definitely result into an environment of total love, compassion, truthfulness, friendliness and kindness.
Thus, this broader aspect of Jainism offers all practices mainly to uplift not only an individual but the entire society and the universe. Moreover, if we study the entire Patanjala Yogasutra, one comes to know about all the techniques to purify the human mind, to promote individual’s health, to remove all the klesas inclusive of false knowledge and to make one realize the right knowledge. Finally, it takes an individual to a higher spiritual level.
Though, the goal of liberation is common to both philosophies, the modes of techniques and methodologies differ in targeting the objects. If, we try to study both for the proper applications blending these practices, an individual practicing Yoga can definitely uplift himself physically, mentally, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually finally forming an ideal family and the society. Whereas, an ideal environment with all social values and virtues in the entire society following the principles of Jainism will definitely produce the best individuals with proper understanding and care for each other.
The basic research questions that initiated this thesis are analysed here, applied to the selected two philosophies namely Jainism and Yoga. Accordingly the Hypothesis which is non-directional is formed.