Question

The gateway for the arrival of Karma is known as:

• A. Asrava
• B. Samvara
• C. Bandha
• D. Jiva

Hint:

Remember: Asrava = Arrival. Samvara = Stop. Bandha = Binding. This logical progression is the foundation of the Jain theory of action and its consequences.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
In Jainism, Karma is viewed as a physical substance (Pudgala) that enters the soul's spatial units. The process through which these fine karmic particles flow towards and into the soul is called Asrava (Influx).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Definition: Asrava is the "channel" or "hole" through which the soul gets contaminated by karma. Acharya Umaswati defines it as the activity of the body, speech, and mind (Yoga).
2. The Two Aspects:
- Psychic Influx (Bhava Asrava): The mental state, such as anger or greed, that makes the soul susceptible to karma.
- Physical Influx (Dravya Asrava): The actual entry of physical karmic particles into the soul.
3. Analogy: Just as water flows into a ship through a hole, karma flows into the soul through the "hole" of activities. If the hole is not blocked, the ship (the soul) will sink in the ocean of Samsara.
4. Distinction from other terms:
- Samvara is the closing of this door.
- Bandha is the sticking of the karma to the soul once it has arrived.
- Jiva is the conscious entity that experiences this process.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The influx or gateway for karma is Asrava.