Asrava

Asrava (Sanskrit: आस्रव) refers to the influx or inflow of karmic particles into the soul (Jiva) in Jain philosophy. It is one of the nine fundamental principles (Nav Tattva) of Jainism. Asrava represents the causes that lead to the accumulation of karma, binding the soul to the cycle of birth and death (samsara).

The sources of asrava are various activities of mind, body, and speech that are driven by passions (kashayas) such as anger, ego, deceit, and greed. Ignorance (mithyatva), lack of self-control (avrata), negligence (pramada), and activities (yoga) are also contributing factors. These activities attract karmic matter that adheres to the soul, obscuring its inherent qualities of infinite knowledge, perception, bliss, and energy.

Asrava is not simply about external actions; it is primarily concerned with the internal intentions and emotions that drive those actions. Even seemingly harmless actions can result in asrava if they are motivated by negative emotions or ignorance.

Jain philosophy emphasizes the importance of stopping the influx of karma (samvara) and eliminating accumulated karma (nirjara) to achieve liberation (moksha). This is accomplished through practicing the three jewels: right faith (samyak darshana), right knowledge (samyak jnana), and right conduct (samyak charitra). By controlling one's thoughts, words, and deeds, and by cultivating virtues such as non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-attachment (aparigraha), one can prevent the inflow of new karma and eventually purify the soul.