Book Title: ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 03
Author(s): International School for Jain Studies
Publisher: International School for Jain Studies
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1. Impermanence: Nothing in this universe is permanent; all worldly objects are subject to
constant change. This reflection leads to the feeling of non-attachment. 2. Helplessness: Nothing can protect against death which is unavoidable.
Solitariness: Every soul comes alone to occupy its individual body. Every individual is born alone and dies alone. The self alone is responsible for one's thoughts, actions and deeds Distinctness: The body and soul are entirely different, distinct and separate entities. Rebirth: Souls bonded by karmic matter transmigrate to various bodies and thus revolve in the cycle of life, death and rebirth in various life forms. Nature of the universe: The universe is eternal and is governed according to its own laws. It consists of entities that evolve continuously according to their intrinsic attributes. New forms appear (utpāda) and old ones disappear (vyaya) but the basic entity remains unchanged (dhrauvya). Impurity of physical body: It is deep delusion to think of our bodies to be pure. The feeling of attachment to the impure body should be discarded since it is only a vehicle for spiritual advancement. Influx of karma: Activities of mind, speech and body associated with delusion, anger, pride, deceit and greed, under the influence of past karmas, induce the influx of new karmas. The karmic influx is responsible for the continued mundane existence of the soul through the cycles of rebirth. Stoppage of karmic influx: karmic particles do not approach the soul in the absence of desire, attachment and aversion. The twelve contemplations lead to stoppage of
karmic influx. 10. Dissolution of karma: Karmic body can be reduced through the practice of austerities
and contemplation on the attributes and purity of the soul. Internal and external
penances (tapa) are instrumental in intentional shedding of karma even before fruition. 11. Righteous conduct: The following code of virtuous conduct reflects the natural
attributes of the soul. 1) Forgiveness (Kșamā) 2) Straightforwardness (Ārjava) 3) Humility, Modesty (Mārdava) 4) Purity of thought, Contentment (sauca) 5) Truth (Satya) 6) Self-Restraint (Samyama)
9.
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STUDY NOTES version 5.0
