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entity even subtler than any known sub-atomic particle. The literal meaning of the word 'Paramanu' is ‘ultimate particle', and Jains have used the word in that sense precisely.
Beyond that, Jains have hypothesized Karmic particles which, are particles of matter at such a subtle level that they can interact with soul. When fused with soul these particles, in their variety of combinations, are considered to be the dynamic blueprint of the whole life of a living being. The whole life according to the Jains is not just a lifetime as we define it, but a series of continued rebirths, which ends only on liberation.
The third basic concept is Ashrava or inflow of Karmic particles that cause the tarnishing of soul once fused with it. Soul is open to continuous interaction with Karmic particles, and this term includes all the tendencies that cause the interrelationship between soul and matter.
The fourth basic concept is Bandh or bondage, the fusion of Karmic particles with soul. The forces responsible for this fusion are attachment and aversion. The intensity and extent of this fusion depends on the intensity of the passions within the attachment or aversion. This fusion is the cause of continued rebirth of the soul in varieties of mundane bodies.
The fifth basic concept is Samvar, or preclusion. This is the act or effort of stopping the inflow of Karmic particles, and it is the first essential achievement on the path of purification. All the disciplines, conducts, and practices lead to this stage of development.
The sixth basic Jain concept is Nirjara or cleansing. It is the shedding of Karmic particles already fused with the
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