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factors. Contrary to it, the wrong view is that, which regards anyone of them as the sole cause, neglecting the rest.
Jainism puts most emphasis on Purushärtha (to rely a great deal on one's own efforts and initiatives) since it is the only one in our control and can make an impact on other Samaväya in future. No progress can be made if one depends only upon fate or Karma. Individual effort (Purushärtha) can help in shedding Karma and in purifying his/her consciousness. Believing in these five causes is the beginning of the theory of multiplicity of views (multifaceted truth or Anekäntaväda).
Significance of Samaväya:
To form an opinion on any one of the five causes indicates our ignorance about Jain reality.
However during our spiritual growth period, we should reflect on one cause that will reduce or minimize our vices and enhance our spirituality.
During the action or activity period one should reflect on:
One's own effort for the success (Determination, Free will, Self-effort)
At the conclusion of an activity or action one should reflect on:
• If the result is positive
The success was due to the help from others (external Nimitta or circumstances)
If the result is negative
The failure was due to my past karma (internal Nimitta) or
• The failure was Predestined or
My effort was not adequate
Person needs Freewill, Determination, and Effort to progress from Illusionary/Ignorant state (1st Gunasthäna) to Monkhood state (6th Gunasthäna)
Person cannot spiritually progress further without dissolving his/her ego.
To the egoless person, all events that occur in the universe seems predestined
This does not mean that events are predestined in reality (all five causes are equally present)
We may continuously change two of the five causes:
Purushärtha and Nimitta (Self Effort or Free Will, Karma and External situation)
Hence the probability of all events are predetermined is very low
During an ignorance state a person is controlled by surroundings (Nimitta).
Hence on the path of spiritual progress the person should be surrounded by proper environment
As spiritual progress occurs, the effect of external causes reduce, and the power of soul increases Karma philosophy applies to ourselves, Compassion applies to all
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