Core Principles of Jain Philosophy: Eight Karma

The Eight Types of Karma

1. Connection Between Karma and Heya-Upadeya

In Jain philosophy, the concepts of Heya (To be discarded) and Upadeya (To be accepted) are closely linked with karma. Among the nine fundamental elements (Nava Tattva), five are directly connected to karma:

• Āsrava (Influx of karma) → Heya (To be discarded)

• Bandha (Bondage of karma) → Heya (To be discarded)

• Samvara (Stopping the influx of karma) → Upadeya (To be accepted)

• Nirjarā (Shedding of karma) → Upadeya (To be accepted)

• Mokṣa (Liberation from karma) → Upadeya (To be accepted)

Since Āsrava and Bandha lead to the accumulation of karma, they are Heya (to be abandoned), while Samvara, and Nirjarā help in protecting from and eliminating karma, leading to Mokṣa; making them Upadeya (to be accepted).

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2. The Jain Definition of Karma vs. Other Philosophies

In common usage and other philosophies, karma is often defined as "action" or "deed," implying that good actions lead to good results and bad actions lead to bad results. However, in Jainism, karma has a more precise meaning:

• Dictionary Meaning: Karma is often understood as "work" or "fate resulting from actions."

• Hindu & Buddhist Philosophy: Karma is viewed as an ethical principle of cause and effect that determines future rebirths.

• Jain Definition: Karma is a type of subtle Pudgala (matter) that binds to the soul due to passions and activities. It is a tangible substance, unlike in other philosophies where karma is considered merely a metaphysical law.

Thus, in Jainism, karma is not just a result of actions but a real, physical entity that sticks to the Jeeva (soul) and influences its journey.

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3. Types of Karma: Dravya, Bhava, and Nokarma

Jainism classifies karma into three perspectives:

1. Dravya Karma (Subtle Matter Karma) – The actual fine particles (Pudgala) of karma that bind to the soul.

2. Bhava Karma (Intentional Karma) – The internal mental states and intentions (Moha, Raga, Dwesha) that attract Dravya Karma.

3. Nokarma (Non-Karmic Activities) – Physical and mental activities that do not attract karmic bondage.

4. Definition of Nokarma is not accurate. It simply means a physical body that is instrumental in accumulating Karma 

For example, a person helping others with selfless intent (Bhava Karma) accumulates good Dravya Karma (Punya), whereas someone doing the same act with selfish motives accumulates bad one (Papa).

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4. Classification of Karma: Ghāti and Aghāti Karma

Jainism classifies karma into two broad categories:

A. Ghāti Karma (Destroyer of Soul’s Qualities)

These karmas directly affect the soul’s pure attributes such as knowledge, perception, and bliss.

1. Jñānāvaraṇīya (Knowledge-Obscuring Karma): Obstructs knowledge.

2. Darśanāvaraṇīya (Perception-Obscuring Karma): Obstruct visibility.

3. Mohaniya (Deluding Karma): Obstructs true perception, leading to wrong beliefs. Causes attachment and aversion leading to passions.

4. Antarāya (Obstructing Karma): Creates obstacles in charitable acts, spiritual progress, and willpower.

Since these karmas directly corrupt the soul’s nature, they are Heya (to be discarded).

B. Aghāti Karma (Non-Destroyer of Soul’s Qualities)

These karmas do not harm the soul’s innate attributes but influence its physical existence.

5. Vedaniya (Feeling-Producing Karma): Determines happiness or suffering.

6. Āyu (Lifespan-Determining Karma): Determines the duration of life in a specific body.

7. Nāma (Body-Determining Karma): Shapes physical characteristics, such as senses, strength,  beauty, and form.

8. Gotra (Status-Determining Karma): Determines the social and familial environment of birth.

These karmas are both good and bad, and they affect worldly life but do not obstruct omniscience. However, they should also be transcended to attain Mokṣa.

Thanks, 

Jyoti Kothari 

(Jyoti Kothari, Proprietor, Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry. He is an adviser, Vardhaman Infotech, a leading IT company in Jaipur. He is also ISO 9000 professional)