In Jainism, Bees Sthanak Kriya (also spelled as "Bees Sthaanak Kriya" or "20 Kriya Sthana") is a traditional practice involving twenty different postures or actions performed as a part of spiritual discipline and purification. This kriya is mainly found in the Shwetambar Jain tradition and is particularly emphasized in the Terapanthi sect.

Purpose:

The Bees Sthanak Kriya is performed to purify the mind and body, develop concentration, control the senses, and cultivate detachment from worldly desires. It is considered a preparatory practice before engaging in deeper meditation or other spiritual activities.

Meaning of "Bees Sthanak":

• Bees = Twenty (20) in Hindi.
• Sthanak = Place, position, or posture.
• Kriya = Action or practice.

So, "Bees Sthanak Kriya" refers to a series of twenty actions or postures.

The 20 Actions (Sthanaks):

The actual list and sequence can vary slightly by tradition or teacher, but generally, the kriya includes twenty different physical, verbal, and mental actions such as:

1. Standing
2. Sitting
3. Bowing
4. Folding hands
5. Touching the ground
6. Chanting specific mantras
7. Meditative gazing
8. Reflection on the self
9. Repentance (Pratikraman)
10. Expressing forgiveness
11. Mental restraint
12. Silence (Maun)
13. Control of senses
14. Awareness of breath
15. Renunciation gestures
16. Focusing on the forehead
17. Paying homage to the Tirthankaras
18. Remembering the Guru
19. Internalizing compassion
20. Surrendering to spiritual ideals

Each action is performed with awareness, reciting certain Jain prayers or mantras (such as Navkar Mantra), and maintaining a spirit of humility and devotion.

When is it Performed?

• Often performed during Samayik (period of meditation and equanimity).
• Can be part of daily spiritual practice, especially for lay devotees and monks in the Terapanthi tradition.

Benefits:

• Enhances concentration and discipline.
• Purifies karma through mindful actions.
• Develops humility and spiritual awareness.
• Prepares the practitioner for higher meditation.

Scriptural Reference:

While not directly mentioned in the earliest Jain Agamas, Bees Sthanak Kriya has been outlined and systematized in later texts and is taught as a practical discipline for lay followers and ascetics.

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If you would like a detailed step-by-step description of each of the twenty sthanaks, please let me know!