An Enquiry into the Hermeneutical Understanding of Yogi-Pratyakaa in Jain Philosophy- A Study on Extrasensory Perception

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Extrasensory perception has long been a subject of both fascination and controversy. Yogi-pratyaksa, an umbrella term denoting extrasensory perception, is explored in this book as a distinct phenomenon. Emphasizing a hermeneutical approach, the work delves into the soteriological and epistemological dimensions of yogi-pratyaksa. Jainism offers a particularly unique perspective by aligning yogi-pratyaksa with these philosophical domains more explicitly than other Indian traditions. By interpreting its nature and function within the framework of Jain thought, this book examines how this interpretive lens provides context-specific solutions to key philosophical questions, offering a fresh and distinctive perspective on the intersection of epistemology and soteriology in Jainism.

Jibin Paul is a dedicated scholar with a PhD in Philosophy and Religion from Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi. His academic journey has been marked by significant contributions to the field including the publication of articles and the presentation of research papers at various conferences. Dr. Paul has a passion for teaching and has imparted his knowledge of philosophy across several institutions. Currently, he serves as a resident teacher at Marymatha Institute of Philosophy in Thrissur.

landscape where philosophical inquiry often seems ensconced in its own historical and disciplinary silos, Jibin Paul's An Enquiry into the Hermeneutical Understanding of Yogi- Pratyaksa in Jain Philosophy emerges as a clarion call for interdisciplinary engagement and nuanced interpretation. This work is not only a significant scholarly contribution but also the culmination of Paul's rigorous PhD research project.

The book embarks on a profound exploration of the concept of yogi pratyaksa (generic term for Extrasensory perception), a term rooted deeply in Indian thought, is shedding new light on its epistemological and soteriological dimensions. At the heart of this work is an ambitious project: to unravel how the mystical and introspective aspect of yogi-pratyaksa the direct perception experienced by a yogi-intersects with broader philosophical paradigms and practices. Paul's study is not merely an academic exercise but a hermeneutical venture into the very essence of Jain thought, which contends with the nature of knowledge and the path to spiritual liberation.

The book is grounded in two central hypotheses: first, that yogi pratyaksa functions as an interdisciplinary subject with significant epistemological and soteriological implications, and second, that Jain philosophy provides a unique perspective on this interaction. Jainism integrates interdisciplinary aspects, offering a distinctive framework through which to examine yogi-pratyaksa. This inquiry is meticulously designed to address the contextual nuances of Jain philosophical texts, bringing forward a hermeneutic approach that resonates with the contemporary relevance of these ancient doctrines. By engaging with the contextual understanding and interpretation of yogi-pratyaksa, the book aims to resolve the epistemological questions surrounding it and reveal its implications for modern philosophical and soteriological discussions.

The research is notable for its rigorous analytical framework and its ability to bridge the gap between traditional Jain thought and contemporary philosophical discourse. Paul's findings not only clarify the epistemological and soteriological underpinnings of yogi-pratyaksa but also illuminate its broader implications in today's context. As you delve into this work, you will encounter a rich tapestry of philosophical insight and interpretive depth. Jibin Paul's dedication to elucidating the complex interplay between yogi-pratyaksa and Jain philosophy stands as a testament to his scholarly rigor and commitment to advancing our understanding of these profound ideas.

This book is not just a scholarly contribution but an invitation to reconsider the boundaries of philosophical inquiry and to appreciate the intricate connections between ancient wisdom and contemporary thought. It is my hope that readers will find in these pages both intellectual stimulation and a deeper appreciation for the nuanced and integrative nature of Jain philosophical inquiry.

Extrasensory perception and experience have become one Extra of the most conventional and controversial phenomena across the universe. In addition to the subliminal perceptual experiences, certain experiences have also occurred even in the absence of sensory mediation. Anecdotal evidences and first hand experiences vindicate the occurrence of these kinds of experiences. These occurrences are commonly referred to as Extrasensory Perception (ESP) or Parapsychological experiences (Psi). It is a developing field in psychology and holds a revered place in spiritual circles. Despite its growing interest, the scientific investigation of extrasensory perception is often fraught with ambiguous interpretations and inconclusive results. Similarly, spiritual movements can sometimes exploit and politicize these experiences. This dichotomy often results in a claustrophobic situation for the general public, who may find it difficult to navigate between conflicting claims and interpretations. Thus, this research is an investigation into the understanding and interpretation of the nature and function of extrasensory perception and its implication in the contemporary context.

Indian philosophy offers valuable insights into extrasensory phenomena, thanks to its rich array of terminologies and concepts that provide a robust philosophical foundation for understanding such experiences. One key term within this framework is yogi-pratyaksa, which broadly refers to extrasensory perception. Considering the interpretive dimension of the present research, yogi-pratyaksa represents a generic term for the extrasensory phenomenon. This research aims to explore and interpret yogi-pratyaksa as a distinct phenomenon, emphasizing the importance of a hermeneutical approach. Hermeneutical understanding demands a contextual understanding and interpretation (subtilitas applicandi) of yogi-pratyaksa. It reckons the relevance and contemporaneity of the research. Hence, the objective of the research is to find answers to context-related queries. The inquiry concerns the soteriological implications and epistemological validity of yogi-pratyaksa. The focus is to examine the soteriological and epistemological dimensions of yogi-pratyaksa and how it fits into the broader landscape of Indian philosophy. The study operates on two main hypotheses: first, that yogi-pratyaksa represents an interdisciplinary field; and second, that it is deeply rooted in both soteriology and epistemology. Notably, Jainism offers a unique perspective by aligning yogi-pratyaksa with these philosophical domains more explicitly than other Indian traditions. In Jain philosophy, yogi-pratyaksa is the perception (pratyaksa) of the self (yogi) without the assistance of sense organs and mind. Thus, the research problem revolves around elucidating the nature and function of yogi-pratyaksa within Jain thought and assessing how this interpretive framework addresses context-specific questions.