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The nine principles (Navtatva)
A SIMPLE AND BRIEF ACCOUNT OF THE NINE
PRINCIPLES:
(1) The Jiva (The conscious principle) :
This dravya has consciousness, features and qualities like knowledge.
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(2) The Ajiva (The inert substance) :
Dravyas like Pudgals (inert substances) Akasha (space) etc. which do not possess consciousness.
(3) The Principle of Punya (Merit) :
This is the auspicious Karma Pudgal by means of which we attain the Satavedaniya and the Yashnam Karma which we desire.
(4) The Principle of Pap (Sin) :
This is the inauspicious Karma Pudgal by means of which we get undesirable things like Ashatavedaniya and the Apayashnama Karma etc.
(5) The Asrav (The principle of influx) :
This is the passage through which Karmas enter the soul. Wrong belief, sensual cravings, non-refrainment, passions, yoga, (activities of body, mind and voice) etc.
(6) The Samvar Tatva (The principle of blocking or checking an influx) :
This principle checks the influx of Karmas into the soul. For example, righteousness; forgiveness, lofty and noble reflections, vows, austerities, samayik and character etc.
(7) Bandha (The principle of bondage) :
This is the process by means of which Karmas become absorbed and assimilated into the soul like water mixing with milk. The fixed nature of Karmas such as condition, time, the wild and mild experiences of degree, material, quantity, pradesh (quantity) etc.
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