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LESHYAS - STATE OF MIND AND KARMIC STAINS Chapter 26 - Leshyäs - State of Mind and Karmic Stains
Leshyä means state of mind. In Jainism, a great deal of importance has been given to Leshyäs. Our activities reflect the state of our mind.
Classification of Leshyäs :
Let us understand how a person with different Leshyäs behaves and what the outcomes of such Leshyäs are.
1. Krishna (Black) Leshyä: People in this state of mind do not show any compassion or mercy. Everyone is afraid of them as their anger turns into violence. They are always burning with jealousy and have ill will for everyone. They are full of enmity and malice, and do not believe in spirituality. This state of mind is the worst and most dangerous. If anyone dies in this state of mind, that living being will go to hell.
2. Neel (Blue) Leshyä: People in this state of mind are proud, arrogant, and lazy. They are not trustworthy and other people avoid their company. They are cheaters, cowards, and hypocrites. Such people also avoid religious discourses. If anyone dies in this state of mind, that living being gets reborn as a one sense living being.
3. Kapot (Gray) Leshyä: People in this state of mind always remain sad and gloomy. They find fault in others and are vindictive. They boast about themselves, become excited over small matters, and lack mental balance. If anyone dies in this state of mind, that living being is reborn as a bird or an animal.
4. Tejo (Red) Leshyä: People in this state of mind are very careful about their actions and discriminate between good and evil. They know the difference between what is right and what is wrong. They are kind, benevolent, religious, and lead a harmonious life. If anyone dies in this state of mind, that living being may be reborn as a human being.
5. Padma (Yellow) Leshyä: People in this state of mind are kind and benevolent and forgive everyone, including their enemies. They observe some austerities and are vigilant in keeping their vows till their last breath. They remain unaffected by joy and sorrow. If anyone dies in this Leshyä, that living being will be reborn in heaven as a celestial being.
6. Shukla (White) Leshyä: There are two levels of this Leshyäs. In the first level one strictly observes the principles of non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-attachment. They are trustworthy, treat every soul as if it was their own soul, and do not have any ill feelings even for their enemies. They remain calm even if someone abuses them. If anyone dies in this state of mind, he will be reborn as a human being or an angel.
In the second level one has perfected the state of mind where there is no more attachment or hatred and treats everyone alike. They do not become happy or sad. Their state of mind is the purest. If anyone dies in this perfected state of mind, he or she will be liberated from the cycle of life and death.
JAIN PHILOSOPHY AND PRACTICE I
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