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## The Third Stage
The second stage detailed twenty-one *shabala* (imperfections) in detail. Just as character becomes tainted with *shabala* due to actions like stealing, harming, etc., similarly, the character of a devotee of the Three Jewels becomes tainted by harboring *ashaatana* towards an Acharya or Guru. By abandoning *ashaatana*, the path to Samadhi becomes free of obstacles. Therefore, in relation to the first and second stages, the author describes thirty-three *ashaatana* in this third stage.
Now, the question arises: what is *ashaatana*? The answer is: "That which weakens, destroys, and diminishes knowledge, perception, and character is *ashaatana*." In other words, *ashaatana* is the breaking of character caused by transgression, violation, and excess, arising from improper conduct, unrighteous behavior, and violation of the fundamental vows.
There are two main categories of *ashaatana*: *mithya-praatipaadan* (false propagation) and *mithya-praatipatti-laabh* (gaining false perception). To falsely claim a fabricated nature of substances, without knowing their true nature, is called *mithya-praatipaadan* *ashaatana*. And to falsely accuse revered individuals like Gurus, and consider oneself superior to them, is called *mithya-praatipatti-laabh* *ashaatana*.
In essence, actions that weaken or violate character are the true *ashaatana*, because they lead to a lack of humility in the soul.