Kashaya (Jainism)

In Jainism, Kashaya or Passion are aspects of a person that can be gained during his or her worldly life. According to the Jaina religion as long as a person has Kashayas, they will not escape the cycle of life and death. There are four different kind of Kashayas, each being able to gain their own kinds of intensity.

Kashaya Role in Jainism

Spiritually, the goal of Jainism is to rid yourself of the worldly life and become free of from the cycle of reincarnation. When one develop attachment or passions, this hinders the spiritual progress of their soul. Jainas believe that by reacting without passion and staying tranquil, one can break the cycle which forms more karma.

Levels Of Intensity

* Anantanubadh (Extremely Severe) - This holds back one's ability to have correct beliefs/proper conduct.

* Apratyakhanavarana (Severe) - This holds back partial renunciation but does not affect true belief. While it is active, one cannot take partial vows.

* Pratyakhanavarana (Moderate) - This holds back total renunciation, but does not affect correct belief and partial renunciation. While it is active, partial renunciation is possible, but monkhood is not.

* Sanjvalana (Slight): This holds back the attainment of total correct conduct, but does not affect right belief and monkhood. While it is active, initiation into monkhood and spiritual progress are possible, but becoming a vitragi is not.

The Four Kashayas

* Krodha (anger)
* Lobha (greed)
* Mana (ego)
* Maya (deceit)

External links

* [http://www.umich.edu/~umjains/jainismsimplified/chapter09.html Kashyas]