Q.34. Can you explain the fundamentals of Karma theory in Jainism? And how can we make it more practical and relevant in our daily life?
The concept of Karma is central to many Eastern religions such as Jainism, Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism. While they all fundamentally believe in cause and effect, spiritual growth and liberation, there are some philosophical differences in the interpretation and role of karma.
In this article, we will focus on fundamental concepts and the practical application of Karma theory as explained in Jainism.
Basics Tenets of Karma Theory in Jainism
In Jainism, understanding the Karma theory is of profound importance, as it influences not only our spiritual growth but also our practical life choices on a daily basis.
Karma theory in Jainism goes into great depth, it talks about various types of karma, accumulation and bondage karma, along with its impact and prevention. The detailed commentary and understanding of karma theory are useful but it is also equally important that we don’t lose sight of the spiritual essence and practical application from karma theory.
In this article, we start with the basics as defined in the nine principles called nine Tatvas and share experiential insights for practical application. We will start with - what is soul, what is karma, relationship between soul and karma, karmic cycle and what are the primary reasons for karma bondage.
Soul
In Jainism, the Soul or Jiv, is a central and fundamental concept. It is regarded as having no beginning and no end, it is eternal, indestructible and immortal. It is distinct from the physical body and mind, and it exists in every living being. Soul is considered to be a living entity with sentient consciousness, that goes through countless life cycles, transmigrating from one body to another, until it attains Liberation (Moksh).
Our Soul is the energy that allows our existence in this worldly dimension. It has inherent natural qualities such as peace, happiness, purity, compassion, strength, infinite knowledge, infinite perception and infinite bliss.
Karma
Karma are subtle, invisible particles that exist everywhere in the universe and get attached to our Soul based on our intentions, thoughts, words and bodily actions. We accumulate Karma based on our choices. Jainism categorizes karma into various types based on its effect on the soul.
Relationship between Soul and Karma
As the karma particles bind to the soul, they influence the attributes of our Soul and generate corresponding consequences (circumstances, experiences) in our lives. The inherent natural qualities of our Soul get obstructed by the Karma particles attached to it.
Although our Soul is influenced by Karma, the Soul itself is considered to have free will and has the ability to make choices in the present moment. These choices impact the accumulation of Karmic particles and future consequences.
We don’t know what karma we have from the past, so the best thing we can do is live in the awareness of the soul’s inherent qualities like peace, compassion, happiness, and strength. Our spiritual journey is to experience and achieve the inherent nature of our Soul.
Karmic Cycle
It is important to understand the Karmic cycle so that we can be more mindful with our choices. There are four primary words that we need to know related to Karmic cycle:
· Asrava: Inflow/bonding of Karma
· Bandha: Characteristics of Karma
· Samvar: Stopping of acquiring new Karma
· Nirjara: Shedding/Removing of already acquired Karma
Once we have the awareness and understanding of Asrava, Bandha, Samvar and Nirjara, we can be more mindful with our thoughts and actions in every moment.
Two main reasons for bondage of new karma to Soul are Mithyatva (ignorance/wrong belief) and Kashaya (anger, ego, greed, deceit, like, dislike).
Under Mithyatva and Kashaya, we can visualize ourselves as becoming stronger magnetic fields for karmic particles.
Practical Application of Karma Theory
Karma theory is meant to be applied in our everyday life situations. Some key takeaway that help us keep core spiritual aspects in the forefront as we make life choices are below:
· Actions have Consequences: Every intention, thought, word, action carries consequences. If we are mindful and aware in the moment then we can notice the immediate consequences of our thoughts/words/actions within us in that moment. However, most of us in our busy lives are forgetful and not fully present to even our own experiences.
And Karma theory reminds us that even if we are not mindful to notice in the moment, the consequences of our thoughts, words and actions will be experienced in the future, there is no escape. This encourages us to act with mindfulness and responsibility, as these actions shape our present and future circumstances.
· No Blame: As our human experiences unfold, we often turn to karma theory when we are looking for answers. During the stage when the questions are arising and we are looking for answers, an element of blame is undoubtedly bound to surface. Blame can take the form of blaming others, blaming external forces or blaming self.
In our spiritual journey, until we reach the stage of complete acceptance and no questions arising within us, the deeper understanding of karma theory and Jain values urge us to simultaneously practice no blame. This is so we can break free from the karmic cycle.
The intent is to elevate our mind to not blame anyone, anything or any external forces for our life’s circumstances. Situations are our own karma coming to fruition and we should take responsibility for our actions rather than cultivating any thoughts of blame.
Blaming others or external circumstances for one’s suffering can create negative Karma and blame is often rooted in anger, ego, or ignorance. Blaming others increases negative feelings like resentment, creating more suffering within ourselves and the other person being blamed. By refraining from blaming and focusing on the Soul’s inherent qualities, we break the negative Karmic cycle, fostering peace and spiritual growth.
Along with not blaming others, it is equally that we take personal responsibility without dwelling in self-blame and negative self-thoughts. Whether we are thinking or saying negative thoughts for others or ourselves, it is still increasing negativity within us and not allowing us to break out of the karmic cycle. The importance is no self-awareness, inner transformation and spiritual growth.
· Power to Choose: Karma influences the conditions of our life such as where we are born, physical health, social conditions, but it does not remove our free will. We still have the ability to choose how we act within those circumstances.
With our right belief/knowledge, we can use our free will to make choices in the present that are aligned with our Jain values/principles. Practicing self-discipline, mindfulness, and meditation can help avoid harmful thoughts, words, and actions, help us shed Karma, and prevent the accumulation of new Karma. The most important thing is realizing that we have a choice to decide our response in any unfavorable situations.
How can Karma theory help me when I’m going through difficulties / suffering?
Life is not what happens to us, but our response to what happens to us
As our life unfolds, there are a series of situations or events. Or in other words, Karma is continuously coming into action and we experience the effect of our own Karma, which can be pleasant or unpleasant. In any undesirable life situation, our spiritual practice becomes pivotal, so that we can be more mindful with our response, instead of reacting out of our habitual patterns.
The sacred pause creates the space for us to reflect and respond
In any undesirable and unfavorable situations, we may feel activated or stuck. If we can stop or pause, and not react, then that can already make a big difference. When we notice the activation within us, we can recite 3 Namaskar Sutra or focus our mind on our breath, to reinforce the pause and calm our mind and body. There are various mindfulness meditation practices that can also help us cultivate the ability to pause and observe our thoughts and emotions in the moment.
Identify the emotion, name it, and take care of it with compassion
In difficult situations, we are going to experience difficult emotions. We may experience an array of emotions such as anger, sorrow, despair, defeat, guilt, hate, fear. The idea is not to suppress or spiritual by-pass our emotions but instead navigate them skillfully.
There is some neuroscience research that suggests that the lifespan of an emotion is only about 90 seconds. In response to difficult situations, chemicals are released from the brain typically that only lasts for that duration. After which the emotional state continues to build because of the thoughts/stories we feed it.
Cognitively reframe our thoughts/internal stories
We often get stuck in our own thoughts and we are often looking for explanations. Our mind needs answers/conclusions to help it quiet down. The question that we most often ask ourselves is “Why” – why me, why now, why this, why did it happen, who did it, why did they do it, how etc.
Whatever Happens is Right Based on the Law of Karma
Karma theory provides an answer that this situation is the result of my own thoughts, words and actions. It helps us in accepting the present situation with understanding. It gives a conclusive answer to our thinking mind and that helps in silencing the mind.
We can use unfavorable situations for our spiritual growth
If we can silence our mind, accept situations with understanding, and cultivate a compassionate mindset, then we can truly position ourselves to mindfully choose our response in the present moment and positively shape our future.
We can ask ourselves – What can I learn from this suffering? What can I let go? We can free ourselves from habitual ways of thinking and ways of behaving. Difficulties and challenges in our lives can lead to inner transformation.
What should my response be when others are going through difficulties / suffering?
This is a significant blind spot for many of us who understand the theory of karma but overlook the holistic spiritual aspects of Jainism.
“Karma theory as a motivation to change applies to self. For everyone else it is only Compassion.” – Pravin Shah, Jaina Education Committee Chair
When it comes to others, our focus should always be only one thought - How can I be of service to this person?
If someone else is going through a difficult situation and if we think or say to that person that it is because of your past bad Karma then it is the most cruel thing we can do at that time. Thinking or saying something like this demonstrates our limited spiritual knowledge related to Karma theory and Jain values.
The law of Karma applies to self – it is meant to serve as a guide for self-realization and inner transformation.
When it comes to others, we should not use Karma as a justification for dismissing or judging the suffering of others. To tell someone that their pain is a result of their past Karma is not only unhelpful but also counter to Jain values like Ahimsa, Anekantvad, Karuna. Though their past actions may have led to the consequences currently being experienced, at that time, they were acting in the way that they believed was correct, just as any of us are doing at any time.
When others are suffering or when we are suffering, then all they need or we need is kindness, compassion and desire to serve, rather than any form of blame.
In Summary
The Karma theory in Jainism offers profound insights into the consequences of our intentions, thoughts, words and actions. While Karma is continuously coming into action, we have the power to choose our response in any situation. Our choices create our destiny. Our spiritual journey is to work on transforming two primary reasons for bondage of new Karma - Mithyatva (ignorance/wrong belief) and Kashaya (anger, ego, greed, deceit, like, dislike). And in any undesirable situations for us or others, acceptance, compassion and heart of service are of utmost importance.
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