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Capability of Being Devas
The following karmas leads to celestial state of existence's : a) Saraga-Samyama (restrained with attachment); b) SamyamaAsamyama (restrained cum non-restrained); c) Balatapa (childish austerities); and d) Akama Nirjara (involuntary dissociation of karma)
Shubha-nama karma is another cause for the Devagati.16 Trilok-sara enumerates the causes of devagati in detail. ' Thus, the following are some of the causes of bondage leading to Devagati : i) Penance followed for worldly desires. ii) Penance not based on Samyagdarshan but, practised in misguided belief. iii) Wrong penance like walking on fire, torturing the body by fire or vel (an iron instrument). iv). Death due to accident by fire, etc. v) Refraining from evil acts out of compulsion. vi) Good deeds done in a defective or sinful manner (showy worship, etc.).
The following are some of the common characteristics of celestial being (Devas) :
Heavenly Acquisition : The eight natural heavenly acquisitions of the celestials, are as follows: 1. Anima : this enables them to make their body very small. 2. Mahima : is the opposite of the first and helps them to extend their bodies to any dimensions. 3. Laghima : by which they can make their bodies very light. 4. Garima : by which they can make their bodies very heavy. 5. Sakama rupitva : by which they can at will adopt any forms, and any number of bodies at one time. 6. Vashitva : by which they can bring others under subjection. 7. Ishitva : by which they can exhibit superiority. 8. Prakamya : power to act as they desire.
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THE CONCEPT OF DIVINITY IN JAINISM
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