________________
39 Brief Outlines Of Jainism
attachment, it logically follows that such a Bhava Karma would not bind the soul because it is as good as No- Karma. This is how one can avoid bondage resulting from actions, even during one's life time and in association with Ajiva. This is the condition of one who has achieved the status of an “Arhat” - the one who is fully liberated. Jainism has prescribed a ladder of spiritual development which has in all 14 steps. “Arhat” is the soul which is at the 13th step which is called “Sayogi Kevali” which means the liberated soul with human body. When such soul leaves the human frame it achieves the status of a Siddha who has no more to undergo the cycle of birth and deaths.
When the soul reaches 13th stage it has reached the position of a "Sthitaprajna”of Gita. The above refered ladder is known as “GunaShthanaka”. Each step of this ladder shows the stage of spiritual development so far achieved so that an aspirant can know where he or she stands in his or her march for the total freedom.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
