Chapter 21 – Theory of Karma and Reincarnation We have seen that our comfortable or uncomfortable situations lie in the activities undertaken by us during this life or earlier lives. Thus, this assumes a theory of rebirth. It is the law of nature that we reap what we sow. However,…
Chapter 20 – Nav Tattva Part II : Samvar, Nirjarä, and Moksha
Chapter 20 – Nav Tattva Part II : Samvar, Nirjarä, and Moksha (Prevention of Karmas, Eradication of Karmas and Liberation) Samvar means prevention of the incoming Karmas Nirjarä means the eradication of acquired Karmas Both are to be resorted to and are therefore considered Upädeya. We should continually strive to…
Chapter 18 – Six Substances Part II – Non-Living Substances (Ajiv)
Chapter 18 – Six Substances Part II – Non-Living Substances (Ajiv) Non-living Substances (Ajiv) Anything that does not have life or consciousness is Ajiv. Ajiv literally means without a soul and therefore, they cannot accumulate any karma. They do not have birth, death, pleasure, or pain; they are Achetan (inert). …
Chapter 15 – Application of Nonviolence (Ahinsä)
Chapter 15 – Application of Nonviolence (Ahinsä) Introduction Vegetarianism has been known for thousands of years as a principle of health and environmental ethics throughout India. It remains to this day a cardinal ethic of Jain thought and practices. Each form of life, even water and trees possesses consciousness and…