________________
in hell, one only reaps the fruits of the deeds of previous lives. One cannot undertake any religious activities in heaven or in hell. Vows and austerities are blessings of human life alone. The question arises - on what basis do the inhabitants of heaven and hell get their next life? What causes karmic bondages for them? The Jaina seers state that attachment and aversion lead to karmic bondage. While an individual is experiencing joy and sorrow, his positive and negative reactions cause attachment and aversion. With right vision, one maintains equanimity in all situations without being bound. He stays detached and takes a more evolved birth in his next life.
The Facets of Decision
Why is a specific being drawn to a specific womb? He may be drawn to a specific family to continue a previous loving relationship or even to give himself the opportunity to work out hurt and animosity that existed in the past. A being may also choose specific parents to achieve a specific goal, which may only be possible through the opportunities that particular family can provide.
The human life-form has the potential to elevate motherhood and fatherhood into an unparalleled blessing. Conception,
26
pregnancy and birth are opportunities when parents can decide to grab the opportunity and follow certain guidelines to transform the child's destiny into one of fortuity.
Relationships
It seems we have placed the onus of our lives on karmas, while forgetting that the entire world is operating on the basis of relationships. Our life is influenced by the relationships we form, many of which have the power to transform life.
A relationship with a pious person can liberate us from past sins. There are ample instances in history to show us this. When Mahavira came before Chandakaushik, the deadly cobra, the latter's fiery anger got diffused and was replaced with serenity. So also Arjunmali's relationship with Sudarshan became instrumental in connecting him with Mahavira, after which he attained liberation.
The contrary to this is also seen when one person's piety is influenced by the sin of another. Sage Vishwamitra's long penance was destroyed before the lustfulness of Menaka, the celestial dancer. The question arises - when two persons come in contact, who wields the greater influence? This depends on many factors, such as the strength, potential, purpose and
