ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 03

Author(s): International School for Jain Studies
Publisher: International School for Jain Studies

Page 30

Certain functional aspects of the Subtle-body might be analogous to mind as generally discussed in the western philosophy. Concepts of leśyā and its transformation, as propounded in the Jain philosophy and way of life, are of great relevance in developing effective techniques for behavior modification required to solve major problems facing the world today. Leśyā has been mentioned at several places in different contexts in several scriptures. The basic and applied aspects of leśyā discussed in the present discussion are primarily based on the translations and commentaries of Uttaradhyayana Sūtra and Gommațasāra (Jīvakānda).
To appreciate Leśyā from the spiritual perspective, the relevant conceptual framework, provided by the Jain metaphysics, is summarized in section 2, followed by an analysis of its behavioral and spiritual correlates. Important steps recommended in the Jain way of life to transform leśyā and consequent modifications in behavior are briefly outlined in sec. 3. The need for undertaking comprehensive and systematic studies on leśyā from the perspectives of modern science, particularly in the context of mind-body problem, is emphasized. Plausible correlations of Leśyā with recently emerging scientific facts and theories that could form potentially useful areas of research are discussed in sec.4.
2. The Jain Metaphysics Jain thinkers believe in the eternal existence of the Universe functioning according to its own laws, unaided by any supernatural power(s). This universe is basically constituted by 6 fundamental substances (dravyas) viz. (1) līva (Soul), (2) Pudgala (Matter), (3) Ākāśa (Space), (4) Dharama (Principle of Motion), (5) Adharma (Principle of Rest) and (6) Kāla (Time).
The concept of Jiva and the doctrine of karma form the core of the Jain philosophy.
2.1. Jīva (The Conscious Beings) Jiva or soul(s) exist in the liberated pure (Mukta) and worldly impure (Sāṁsārika) states. The essence of the soul in its pure state is Caitanya or pure consciousness endowed with attributes such as infinite conation (darśana), knowledge (jñāna), power (vīrya) and bliss (ãnanda).
Jīva in their mundane existence, described as Sāṁsārika-jīva (worldly living beings), present impure states of consciousness due to association of souls with matter. The soul bound with
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