Disclaimer: This translation does not guarantee complete accuracy, please confirm with the original page text.
In the Harivamsha Purana, there are five stages of spiritual progress, known as Gunasthanas, where the difference lies in the degree of restraint (Samyata) and unrestraint (Asamyata). Just as there is a difference in outward appearance, there is also a difference in the purity of the soul as one progresses through these stages.
The highest level of happiness is experienced by the Sayoga Kevali and Ayoga Kevali, who have attained the ultimate liberation (Kshayika Labdhi). Their happiness is infinite and not derived from sensory pleasures.
Next in line are the A-poorva Karana and the Kshapaka, who experience supreme happiness arising from the suppression or destruction of the passions (Kshaya).
Following them are the restrained (Samyata) and unrestrained (Asamyata) beings who are free from the fifteen distractions (Pramada) of sleep, five senses, four passions, four doubts, and one attachment. They experience a state of tranquility (Prashama).
Then come the restrained beings who are free from the five vices of violence, falsehood, stealing, sexual misconduct, and attachment. They experience a state of peace (Shama).
Further down are the restrained and unrestrained beings who have renounced the five vices to some extent. They experience happiness due to their victory over the great thirst (Mahatrishna).
Even those who are not completely free from the vices, but have faith in the truth (Tattva Shraddha), experience happiness.
Those who are simultaneously on the path of right faith (Samyakta) and wrong faith (Mithyatva) experience a mixture of happiness and sorrow.
Those who have abandoned right faith (Samyakta) experience a fleeting sense of happiness, similar to the taste of sugar mixed with milk and ghee, which is felt only momentarily after burping.
Those who are deeply deluded by the seven-fold nature of ignorance (Moha) are like a person in a dream state. They are far from experiencing true happiness.
In essence, the Gunasthanas represent the different stages of the soul's evolution, driven by the influence of ignorance (Moha) and the path of liberation (Yoga). The first twelve Gunasthanas are marked by the influence of ignorance, while the last two are characterized by liberation.