________________
Q: What are the characteristics of an omniscient being?
A: Omniscient being has destroyed four defiling Karmas, thinned out four non-defiling ones, and stays at the 13th stage of elevation.
Q: How many stages of elevation are there?
A: Fourteen.
Q: Give their names.
A: They are as under:
1 Mithyätva (Wrong perception)
8 Apoorvakaran (Unprecedented) 2 Säswädan (Retention of taste of right perception) 19 Anivruttikaran (Not turning back) 3 Mishra (Right cum wrong perception),
10 Sukshma Sampräy (Overcoming subtle greed) | 4 Avirat Samyaktva (Right perception without restraint), 11 Upashänt Moh (Pacified delusion), 5 Deshvirati, Partially restrained)
12 Kshinmoh (Free from delusion)
6 Sarva Virati (Fully restrained) 7 Apramatta Sanyam (Restraint without indolence)
13 Sayogi Kevali (Embodied omniscience) 14 Ayogi Kevali (Unembodied liberated state)
Lesson 104: Questions and answers, Part 3
Q: What is the difference between an omniscient and a Tirthankar?
A: Omniscient and Tirthankars are equal in capability. Lord Tirthankar has, however, earned Tirthankar Nämkarma in earlier life; as such, he is imbibed with additional twelve attributes and is equipped with infinite extraordinary accomplishments.
Q: Why does a Tirthankar move and preach when he is totally detached!
A: Since he has earned Tirthankar Nämkarma in earlier life, he has to preach in order to avail it.
Q: Whose religious Order prevails at present?
A: It is of Lord Mahavir.
Q: Was there Jain Order before Lord Mahavir?
A: Yes.
Q: Who had set it up?
A: Earlier Tirthankars.
Q: Is there any difference in their teaching and that of Lord Mahavir?
A: Essentially it is the same. Teaching is, however, subject to the capability of learner. Moreover, due to change in time a common man can perceive some difference. Basically, however, there is no difference.