sidhdhi tap in aagams
In Jainism, "Siddhi Tap" refers to a type of austerity (tap or tapa) that is mentioned in the Jain Agamas (canonical scriptures). The Agamas are the foundational texts of Jain doctrine, especially for the Śvetāmbara sect, and they contain detailed descriptions of various spiritual practices, including different kinds of austerities (tapasya) that aid in the purification of the soul and ultimately lead to liberation (moksha or siddhi).
Meaning of Siddhi Tap:
- "Siddhi" means attainment, accomplishment, or spiritual perfection.
- "Tap" means austerity, penance, or ascetic practice.
In the context of Jain Agamas:
- Siddhi Tap is considered a high-level austerity that is believed to lead the soul towards the state of siddhahood (liberation or moksha).
- It is typically a combination of both external (bahya) and internal (antaranga) austerities.
- Such tapas involve strict discipline, deep meditation, limiting consumption of food, and practicing detachment from worldly desires.
References in Agamas:
- The concept of tap (austerities) is elaborately described in texts such as the Uttarādhyayana Sūtra, Ācāranga Sūtra, and Dasavaikalika Sūtra.
- These texts describe six external and six internal types of austerities, and Siddhi Tap often refers to an advanced or combined practice resulting in ultimate spiritual accomplishment.
- For example, in the Uttarādhyayana Sūtra (Chapter 30), there is mention of various kinds of tapas that lead to the destruction of karmas and attainment of siddhi (liberation).
Examples of Siddhi Tap:
- Fasting for extended periods (upavasa, attham, atthai, masakshamana, chauvihar, etc.)
- Kayotsarga (abandonment of the body through deep meditation)
- Practicing silence (mauna), meditation (dhyana), and renunciation of attachments.
Purpose of Siddhi Tap:
- The main goal is to destroy accumulated karmas and prevent the influx of new karmas, thereby purifying the soul.
- When all karmas are destroyed, the soul attains siddhi—the state of liberation, infinite knowledge, bliss, and power.
Summary: Siddhi Tap in the Agamas denotes the supreme form of austerity that leads to siddhi or spiritual liberation. It is attained through rigorous adherence to Jain principles of non-violence, self-restraint, renunciation, and meditation as described in the canonical scriptures.
If you need specific references or verses from the Agamas regarding Siddhi Tap, I can provide further details.