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Fourth chapter describes the important doctrine of karma. Karma is a technical term of Jain philosophy meaning the impression made in physical form of the activities of the soul. Soul in mundane state is contaminated by karma and becomes doer and enjoyer of fruits of its actions. Karmas obscure manifestation of the innate powers of the soul. Fifth chapter describes seven important truths which determine the performance of the soul. It describes the process of influx of karma into the soul and other processes showing how the soul can be set free of karma to reach the state where its innate powers manifest in full measure. The meritorious acts, punya, and demeritorious acts, papa, of the soul is the subject of chapter 6. Chapter 7 deals with the theory of knowledge, jnana. Knowledge is gained indirectly through the senses and mind, and directly by the soul without the aid of senses and mind. The ultimate form of the later type is keval jnana, omniscience.
Chapter 8 describes the principles of Anekantavada, non-absolutism, Nayavada, the view of analytical stand points, and Syadavada, the art of expressing the multiple aspects of reality. Chapter 9 reflects on right behavior of a human being that forms the foundation of selfrealization. This consists of right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct known as Ratnatraya. The journey of the soul from the stage of ignorance to the stage of perfect knowledge divided in fourteen stages, called gunstahana, is described in chapter 10. Chapter 11 deliberates on concept of lesya that describes the current state of the soul at any stage of its spiritual journey.
Chapter 12 describes dash dharma or ten supreme virtues that shape the personality of an individual, and also help him in spiritual pursuit. Chapter 13 gives details of Jain ethics and the way of life of a follower that is good for him and the society, as well as helpful in his march on the path of perfection. The last chapter 14 talks about panch-parmesthi the souls that are to be venerated.
The message of Bhagvan Mahavira is for everyone irrespective of caste, creed and religion. Let the light of his teachings illuminate every heart and purify every mind. This would not only elevate personal lives but also help finding solutions to the problems facing the world today.
It is hoped that organizations willing to promote awareness about Jain religion in Jain community and other societies shall come forward and publish this material in suitable ways so as to reach the readers of the group.
I thankfully acknowledge suggestions made by Prof. Prem Suman Jain and Prof. Paras Mal Agrawal in finalizing the text of this work.
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Narayan Lal Kachhara Editor
