Unknown Pilgrims

SR No.: 007014
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: N Shanta
Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications Delhi
Publication Year: 1997
Total Pages: 820
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 19 MB

Page 95

A Brief Survey of a Long Tradition
75
Utsarpiņi-avasarpiņi
This refers to the two phases, the ascending and descending, of the cycle of kalpas (cosmic ages) which are repeated ceaselessly and uninterruptedly in those continents of the universe which are known as karma-bhūmis, areas of work, of action.23 Each phase consists of six equal periods which follow each other in a circular movement. Below is given the sequence of periods comprising each of these two phases. These periods correspond with different human states.
1. Utsarpiņi, ascending phase with the following periods: Duhşamā-duhşama: a period of great misfortune, ignorance, suffering; lack of vitality and of physical and moral strength.
Duḥsamă: a period of misfortune and suffering, but to a lesser degree than in the preceding period.
Duhşama-suşamă: a period of misfortune, but one tempered with good fortune; ignorance is being dispelled, suffering grows less.
Suşamā-duḥşama: a period of good fortune (happiness); happiness increases, suffering decreases.
Suşamā: a period of good fortune; ignorance and suffering have disappeared.
Suşamä-suşamă: a period of immense well-being, of extraordinary physical energy which is matched by corresponding intellectual capacity and accompanied by a very great longevity.24
23 It is only the men of these continents for whom Liberation is possible because they can practise asceticism and purify themselves from all karman. In the continents called bhoga-bhumis, the land of enjoyment, Liberation is not possible, because it requires ascetic endeavour.
24 The reference here is to well-being of body and spirit, and not to perfect joy which is the fruit of detachment.