Acharya Yogindu (Joindu / Yogīndra Dev)
Biographical Introduction:
In the Jain tradition, Acharya Joindu (also known as Yogindu or Yogīndra Dev) is recognized as a distinguished acharya. Sanskrit commentators referred to him as Yogīndra, a name by which he became widely known.
Acharya Yogindu had exceptional mastery over the Apabhramsha language, and his writings feature beautiful portrayals of the soul (ātma). He is regarded as a revolutionary thinker who challenged superficial rituals and emphasized self-realization. He also gave insightful expression to mysticism in his works.
According to Dr. A. N. Upadhye, in the preface to Paramātma Prakāśa, Acharya Yogindu lived around the 6th century CE.
Major Works:
1. Paramātma Prakāśa
- Composed by Acharya Yogindu for his disciple Bhatt Prabhakar, to explain the path to liberation (moksha).
- This is the earliest spiritual text written in Apabhramsha.
- The work has two sections:
- First section: 126 verses – explains the nature of the external soul (bahirātma), inner soul (antarātma), and supreme soul (paramātma).
- Second section: 219 verses – elaborates on the nature of liberation.
2. Yogasāra
- Contains 108 verses, also in Apabhramsha.
- The subject matter is similar to Paramātma Prakāśa.
- Considered a summary or essence of that larger work.
3. Amṛtāṣīṭī
- A didactic composition in 82 verses (padmas).
- Discusses various aspects of meditation (dhyāna) and yoga.
4. Nijātmaṣṭaka
- A stotra of 8 verses written in Prakrit.
- Describes the nature of the liberated soul (Siddha), also known as the Siddha Parameṣṭhī.
In addition to these, several other works are attributed to Acharya Yogindu, including:
- Naukā Avakācāra
- Adhyātma Sandoha
- Subhāṣita Tantra
- Tattvārtha Ṭīkā
- Dohāpāhuḍa, among others.
These reflect his deep spiritual insight and his innovative approach to Jain metaphysics and meditation.