THE ROLE OF ASCETIC PERFORMANCE FOR THE CULTIVATION OF POWER, FREEDOM, AND LIBERATION IN THE RENUNCIANT DHARMA TRADITIONS

Abstract

Each chapter of this thesis serves as a unique unfoldment of the concept and practice of tapasya (asceticism) in the ascetic Dharma Traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Tapasya is a Sanskrit term, stripped of any Hindu connotations, defined and applied universally to the traditions of Buddhism and Jainism. Conceptually, tapasya has two functions, physical and cognitive, which manifest uniquely within each Dharma lineage. Each tradition is considered a liberative methodology that is salvifically effective and thus a valid means for realization (moksha or nirvana). While the methods of each tradition differ, this thesis will argue that the methods of physical and cognitive austerities (tapasya) developed and performed by each tradition lead to a unity of clear and direct perception expressed by the Sanskrit term pratyakṣa.