Saṃsāra (Jainism)
In Jainism, Saṃsāra refers to the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, driven by karma. It is the continuous wandering or transmigration of the soul (Jiva) through various realms of existence. This cycle is characterized by suffering (duḥkha) and is considered undesirable from a Jain perspective.
The Mechanics of Saṃsāra:
Saṃsāra is perpetuated by the accumulation of karma. Karma in Jainism is not merely a system of rewards and punishments, but a subtle, material substance that adheres to the soul, weighing it down and preventing it from attaining liberation (moksha). Actions driven by attachment (raga) and aversion (dvesha) are the primary causes of karmic accumulation. These emotions generate vibrations that attract karmic particles.
The type of karma accumulated determines the future birth of the soul, including the realm of existence, the lifespan, the body, and the experiences that it will undergo.
Realms of Existence:
The Jain cosmology divides the universe into various realms of existence within Saṃsāra, broadly categorized as:
- Naraka (Hell): A realm of intense suffering.
- Tiryancha (Animal and Plant Life): Realms inhabited by animals, plants, and microscopic organisms.
- Manushya (Human): The realm of humans, offering a unique opportunity for spiritual advancement due to the capacity for rational thought and disciplined action.
- Deva (Heavenly Beings): Realms inhabited by deities who experience pleasurable lives, but whose merits are eventually exhausted, leading to rebirth in lower realms.
Escape from Saṃsāra (Moksha):
The ultimate goal in Jainism is to break free from the cycle of Saṃsāra and attain liberation (moksha). This is achieved by eradicating all karmas through rigorous self-discipline, non-violence (ahimsa), detachment, and the practice of the Three Jewels: Right Faith (Samyak Darshana), Right Knowledge (Samyak Jnana), and Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra). By eliminating karmic bondage, the soul becomes pure and light, rising to the top of the universe (Siddhashila), where it remains in a state of eternal bliss, free from suffering and the cycle of rebirth.