Mahavira’s Theory of Samatva Yoga — a Psycho-Analytical Approach

Summary

“Mahavira’s Theory of Samatva Yoga — a Psycho‑Analytical Approach” by Sagarmal Jain argues that the Jain concept of samatva, or equanimity, provides a psychological framework for achieving mental health and social harmony in the modern world. Jain observes that despite scientific progress, contemporary life is plagued by anxiety and value conflict and suggests that mental peace can be restored through practising samatva — a balanced state of mind. Drawing on Jain scriptures and Kunda‑kunda’s Samaya‑sāra, he explains that Mahavira defined both the nature and ultimate end of the soul as samatva. Kunda‑kunda identified the soul with samaya and distinguished between the soul’s inherent nature and its resultant manifestations. Jaina ethics equates the agent, goal and path of spiritual practice with samatva, making mental equilibrium both the means and the end. Jain explores the organic basis of samatva through the biological principle of homeostasis and the psychological basis through the human desire for relaxation and harmony. He argues that samatva should govern knowing, feeling and willing. Contrasting this with Darwin’s struggle for existence, he criticises competitive ideologies as contrary to human nature and promotes living with and for others as the proper directive principle. The article concludes that cultivating samatva resolves personal conflicts, fosters social integration and leads to self‑realization, making it a valuable antidote to modern tension and alienation.