परमात्मप्रकाश एक विश्लेषण
By गदाधर सिह
Summary
The text analyzes the Jain Apabhramsha work "Paramatmaprakash" by Yogindu, situating it within the broader context of Jain literature, which includes both narrative (Prabandha) and lyrical (Muktaka) forms. Yogindu is identified as a key poet of the mystical tradition, alongside figures like Muni Ramsingh. The analysis emphasizes that while Yogindu's thought is influenced by Jain doctrine, it transcends sectarian boundaries, aligning with a revolutionary philosophical current that began with the Upanishads and continued through Buddha, Mahavira, and the Siddhas. The central concept of "Paramatmaprakash" is defined as the supreme self, free from all defects and endowed with infinite knowledge, perception, bliss, and energy. This supreme being is identified with Jineshwar and is called by various names like Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh by different traditions. Yogindu describes this ultimate reality as "Niranjan" (stainless), beyond sensory qualities, birth, death, and mental afflictions. A key theme is the importance of the body as a sacred space, a view shared with revolutionary Siddhas like Saraha, who considered the body itself a pilgrimage site. Yogindu argues that liberation is not achieved through external pilgrimages, scriptures, or idol worship, but through inner purity and self-realization. He posits that the self is the true teacher, deity, and pilgrimage. The text highlights Yogindu's emphasis on mental purity over ritual action for the destruction of karma and attainment of liberation. He prioritizes self-knowledge over scriptural knowledge and advocates for a state of equanimity, seeing all beings as equal. The analysis concludes by comparing Yogindu's thought with that of other traditions, noting a remarkable similarity among the Siddhas, Naths, Jains, and later saints. It argues that the poetry of Yogindu and similar mystic poets should not be judged by conventional aesthetic standards of rasa, but by its spiritual purpose: to free the mind from passions and lead to the realization of
Conclusion
This analysis reveals that Yogindu’s *Paramatmaprakasha* transcends sectarian boundaries, advocating a universal spiritual path centered on inner purity rather than external rituals. The text’s core implication is that liberation depends not on pilgrimage, scripture study, or idol worship, but on achieving mental purity and recognizing the divine within the body itself. By equating the self with the ultimate reality and emphasizing experiential knowledge over doctrinal adherence, the work challenges orthodox Jain practices while aligning with broader Indian mystical traditions. The outcome is a democratization of spiritual attainment, making salvation accessible to anyone who cultivates equanimity and self-awareness. This inclusive, anti-ritualistic stance positions Yogindu’s poetry as a vital link between Jain, Nath, and Sant traditions, offering a timeless critique of religious formalism that remains relevant for contemporary seekers.