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PANCHA PARAMESTHI Siddhas Siddhas are liberated souls. They are no longer among us because they have completely ended the cycle of birth and death. They have reached the ultimate highest state, the state of liberation. They do not have any karmas, and they do not collect any new karmas. This state of true freedom is called Nirvan. By destroying all 8 types of karmas Siddhas acquire 8 unique attributes. They are as follows:
Eight Attributes of Siddhas:
Anant Jnän Anant Darshan Avyäbädha Sukha Anant Charitra Akshaya Sthiti Arupitva Aguru Laghutva Anant Virya
Infinite knowledge Infinite perception Eternal happiness Perfect conduct Immortality Formlessness No Status (Neither heavy or light) Infinite energy
Acharyas
The teachings of Lord Mahävir, the last Tirthankar, is carried on by the Acharyas. They are our spiritual leaders. The responsibility of spiritual (not social or economical) welfare of the entire Jain community rests on the shoulders of the Acharyas. Before reaching this state, one has to do an in depth study and achieve mastery of the Jain scriptures (Agams). In addition to acquiring a high level of spiritual excellence, they have the ability to lead the congregation of monks, nuns and laypeople. Generally, they have the knowledge of various languages and other philosophies and religions of the world. Acharya is the head of the Jain congregation. They possess the following 36 qualities:
acquiring of the Jalin to do an
Thirty six Attributes of Acharyas :
Elimination of Eighteen Impurities
Control over the enjoyments of the 5 senses
Touch, Taste, Smell, Sight, and Sound
To follow 9 restrictions for observance of celibacy
Not to live where householders live Not to sit alone with a person of the opposite sex
JAIN PHILOSOPHY AND PRACTICE I
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