100 yantra in jainism
In Jainism, "yantra" refers to a mystical diagram used primarily for meditation, worship, and ritual purposes. Yantras are considered powerful aids in spiritual practices, believed to embody divine energy and help concentrate the mind. While there is no universally codified or canonical list of "100 yantras" in Jain texts, Jain tradition—especially among the Shwetambar sect—does recognize a collection of significant yantras associated with Tirthankaras, deities (yakshas and yakshinis), and protective rituals.
Common Jain Yantras
Some well-known Jain yantras include:
- Navpad Yantra: Represents the nine supreme entities in Jainism—Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyay, Sadhu, Darshan, Gyan, Charitra, and Tap.
- Shri Siddhachakra Yantra: One of the most revered yantras, symbolizing the path to liberation and incorporating the Navpad.
- Ayambil Oli Yantra: Used during the Ayambil Oli festival.
- Panch Parmesthi Yantra: Represents the five supreme beings.
- Chakreshwari Devi Yantra, Padmavati Devi Yantra, Saraswati Devi Yantra: Associated with Jain goddesses.
- Rishabhdev Yantra, Neminath Yantra, Parshvanath Yantra, Mahavir Swami Yantra: Yantras dedicated to specific Tirthankaras.
- Siddha Chakra Yantra: Used for spiritual protection and progress.
100 Yantras in Jain Practice
The "100 yantras" (sometimes referred to as "Shatak Yantra" or "Shatak Yantra Sangrah") is a collection found in some Jain ritual manuals. These are not strictly canonical but are compiled for ritualistic use, especially among temple priests and devout families. The yantras are inscribed on metal plates, paper, or drawn with sacred powders and are used for various purposes, including protection, health, prosperity, success in spiritual endeavors, and removal of obstacles.
Some purposes of these yantras include:
- Protection from evil influences
- Success in exams
- Cure from diseases
- Spiritual upliftment
- Fulfillment of wishes
Each yantra is associated with specific mantras and rituals, and their creation and use are often guided by Jain acharyas or knowledgeable priests.
Reference
- Yantra Chintamani and Yantra Sangrah are Jain texts that describe various yantras and their uses.
- Jain temples and households sometimes keep collections of yantras for daily worship, especially in the Shwetambar tradition.
Important Note
While yantra worship exists in Jainism, the primary path to liberation is through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct (Samyak Darshan, Samyak Gyan, Samyak Charitra). Yantras are considered auxiliary supports for devotees and are not substitutes for the core Jain practices of non-violence, truth, and asceticism.
If you would like a list of names or details of specific yantras commonly included in the collection of 100, please specify, and I can provide further details.