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concentration, which in its highest form leads to self-realization. In consequence of the total dissociation of the self from karmic matter the soul becomes emancipated (mukta). All its attributes are manifested in their absolute purity. It attains kevala-jnana, omniscience, which is free from all doubts, confusion, perversion and obstruction and comprehends the total reality.
As the austerities have the most effective power to free soul from the most vicious influence of karman, Jainism gives them the uppermost place in their system of spiritual discipline. Biographies of Mahavira and other enlightened men serving as the highest spiritual examples are full of great feats of austerities and endurance.
THE JAIN CONCEPTION OF GODHEAD
The Jains do not believe in a supreme divinity that functions as a creator, preserver or destroyer of the Universe, that reveals truth or shows grace to individual souls in bondage. Every soul has to work out its own destiny and attain emancipation through its own efforts. It has got an inherent capacity to realize truth. It realizes that through spiritual exertion. Incentive for this, it gets from within or from the preachings of those who have already realized the truth. Only
Shree Sudharmaswami Gyanbhandar-Umara, Surat
www.umaragyanbhandar.com
