Understanding Dharma in Jainism
Introduction
Dharma is a word that holds deep meaning in Jain philosophy. While different religions define Dharma in their own ways, Jainism provides a unique and scientific explanation of Dharma. According to Jainism:
"वत्थु सहावो धम्मो"
This means, "The nature of a substance is its Dharma." Every substance in the universe has its own qualities and natural characteristics. This natural property of an object is known as Dharma in Jainism.
For example:
Fire has the property of burning.
Water has the property of flowing.
Air has the property of moving.
Sugar has the property of sweetness.
Each of these substances behaves according to its own nature, and this nature is its Dharma.
Dharma as the Nature of the Soul
Jainism is an Atma Dharma, meaning it is the Dharma of the soul. Just as physical substances have their own nature, the soul (Atma) also has its own essential qualities. These qualities define the true Dharma of the soul.
The Natural Qualities of the Soul
In its purest form, the soul possesses infinite qualities, including:
Anant Darshan (अनंत दर्शन) – Infinite Perception
Anant Gyan (अनंत ज्ञान) – Infinite Knowledge
Anant Charitra (अनंत चारित्र) – Infinite Conduct
Anant Virya (अनंत वीर्य) – Infinite Energy
Aroopi (अरूपी) – Formless
Avinashi (अविनाशी) – Indestructible
Agurulaghutva (अगुरुलघु) – Neither heavy nor light
Avyavadha Sukh (अव्याबाध सुख) – Eternal bliss
These qualities exist naturally within every soul, but they remain hidden due to karma. The practice of Jain Dharma aims to remove karma and restore the soul to its purest state.
Dharma as the Path to Moksha
Most souls are impure due to the influence of karma. Only those who remove all karmic bonds can attain Moksha (liberation). The path to Moksha is also called Dharma because it helps the soul return to its natural, pure state.
Two Types of Dharma
Nischay Dharma (निश्चय धर्म) – The Absolute Dharma
This refers to the pure nature of the soul.
It is eternal, unchanging, and exists in every soul.
The soul in its original form is free from karma and full of infinite knowledge and bliss.
Vyavahar Dharma (व्यवहार धर्म) – The Practical Dharma
This refers to the conduct that helps purify the soul.
It includes non-violence, truth, self-discipline, and compassion.
Practicing Vyavahar Dharma leads to Nischay Dharma.
For example:
A person practicing Ahimsa (non-violence) is following Vyavahar Dharma.
When that person reaches a state of absolute non-violence (complete detachment from harm), they attain Nischay Dharma.
Kevali Prarupit Dharma – The Real Dharma
Omniscient beings, also known as Kevali (केवली) or Tirthankaras, possess infinite knowledge (Keval Gyan) and know the ultimate and absolute truth. Since they have completely removed all karmic impurities, they perceive the true nature of every substance as it is.
Tirthankaras preached this eternal truth in their sermons. Hence, the Dharma described by the Kevalis (Kevali Prarupit Dharma) is the real and ultimate Dharma. This is the Dharma that leads to the complete liberation of the soul and is free from any distortions or personal interpretations.
"धारण करे सो धर्म" – Practicing Dharma
A simple yet profound definition of Dharma is "धारण करे सो धर्म", which means "That which is practiced is Dharma." This emphasizes that true Dharma is not just about knowledge but about living according to the principles of truth, non-violence, and self-discipline, etc. Thus, Jainism teaches that Dharma must be practiced to have real value.
Dharma Protects the Soul from Falling down
Dharma is also described as: This means that Dharma prevents the soul from falling into lower states of existence (Durgati) and protects it from spiritual downfall. By practicing true Dharma, a soul can:
Avoid evil actions that lead to suffering in future births.
Overcome delusion and attachment, which cause bondage.
Progress toward liberation and bliss.
Thus, Dharma is like a shield that protects the soul from spiritual downfall and guides it toward ultimate liberation.
Jain Definition vs. Other Definitions of Dharma
Most religions define Dharma as duty or moral responsibilities. However, Jainism goes deeper and connects Dharma with the scientific nature of existence.
For example:
In Hinduism, Dharma often means following the duty assigned by birth or caste.
In Buddhism, Dharma refers to the teachings of Buddha.
In Jainism, Dharma is the nature of every substance and the path to liberation.
This Jain definition closely resembles the scientific definition of properties in material sciences. Just as every physical object has fixed natural properties, every living being has a fixed natural Dharma (spiritual qualities).
Conclusion
Dharma in Jainism is not just about rituals or duties. It is the eternal nature of the soul and the path to Moksha. Every soul has infinite qualities, but karma hides them. By following the principles of Dharma, we can remove karma and rediscover our true Dharma, i.e. the pure natural state.
Since omniscient Tirthankaras know the absolute truth, the Dharma they preached is the real and ultimate Dharma. By understanding and practicing this Kevali Prarupit Dharma, one moves toward eternal peace and liberation.
Exercise
A. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
What does "वत्थु सहावो धम्मो" mean in Jain philosophy? a) The religious duties of a person
b) The nature of a substance is its Dharma
c) The teachings of Jain monks
d) The rules of societyWhich of the following is NOT a natural quality of the soul? a) Anant Darshan (Infinite Perception)
b) Anant Virya (Infinite Energy)
c) Avyavadha Sukh (Eternal Bliss)
d) Possession of material wealthWho has the perfect understanding of Dharma? a) Householders practicing religion
b) Scholars studying scriptures
c) Omniscient Kevali (Tirthankaras)
d) Priests performing rituals
B. Fill in the Blanks
________ Dharma refers to the absolute, pure nature of the soul.
The natural properties of every substance are known as its ________.
The real Dharma is the one preached by ________, as they have infinite knowledge.
C. Short Answer Questions
Explain the difference between Nischay Dharma and Vyavahar Dharma.
Describe three natural qualities of the soul according to Jainism.
Why is Kevali Prarupit Dharma considered the ultimate Dharma?
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