Kundakunda Acharya and Jain Philosophy

SR No.: 007643
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Jayantilal Jain
Publisher: Research Foundation for Jainology Chennai
Publication Year: 1997
Total Pages: 66
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 3 MB

Page 63

VII PROCESS OF PURIFICATION --RECAPITULATIONS
Having realised the process of bondage, the process of unbundling of bondage commences. Influx of misconceptions is replaced by right concepts (about pure-self). Soul and atoms bondage becomes loose and further influx of karma is prevented when right faith, right knowledge and right conduct are adopted. Firstly, inflinching right faith in the pure self leads to disintegration of bondage. Secondly, acquiring further right knowledge about the pure self through scriptures, thinking and meditation facilitates shedding of karma. Thirdly, when four karmas are annihilated by constant meditation of the pure self, the status of Arihant is achieved. The four karmas which prevent this realisation of pure self relating to those prevention of absolute knowledge, vision, absolute self-realisation and realisation of the goal. The rest of four karmas relating to body, age, status and state of happiness remain as Arihant possess body. Fourthly, through the process of the unblemish meditation of the pure self, the balance of four karmas are destroyed at the time of attaining salvation or Moksha. Fifthly, the status of Siddas is achieved where the pure self blossoms and its infinite properties in its perfect forms manifest themselves and the soul enjoys bliss for ever.
The above narration is by no means exhaustive. It is only illustrative. In fact, there are millions of monks and Jains who have dedicated themselves to the teachings of Kundakunda Acharya. It is often said that, there can never be a Muni like him, neither such a Muni has been born in the past nor will be born in future, in this present fifth era. It is said that the teachings of Mahavira will last until the end of the fifth era, i.e. uptill 21000 years after Mahavira. It can be said without any doubt that Acharya Kundakunda will be remembered with reverence even at that time. The noble soul of Kundakunda Acharya will soon achieve Moksha and live in that Permanent abode as Sidda and his name will be remembered atleast for another eighteen thousand and five hundred years, but the essence of his preachings remain for ever guiding human beings to the path to Moksha.