{"id":3214,"date":"2025-09-26T16:30:14","date_gmt":"2025-09-26T11:00:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/?p=3214"},"modified":"2025-09-26T16:38:18","modified_gmt":"2025-09-26T11:08:18","slug":"7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/","title":{"rendered":"What Are the 7 Fundamental Principles of Jainism?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Jainism, one of the world\u2019s oldest religions, is deeply rooted in the principles of non-violence, truth, and self-realization. Emerging in ancient India around the 6th century BCE, Jainism is not just a faith but a way of life that emphasizes purity of thought, speech, and action. At its heart lies the path to liberation (<em>moksha<\/em>)\u2014freedom from the endless cycle of birth and death (<em>samsara<\/em>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To achieve liberation, Jain philosophy identifies <strong>seven fundamental principles<\/strong>, also called the <strong>Tattvas<\/strong>. These principles explain the nature of the soul, karma, bondage, and the path to ultimate liberation. They serve as the foundation of Jain ethics, spirituality, and worldview. Understanding these seven principles is crucial for anyone seeking to grasp the essence of Jainism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this blog, we will explore each of these principles in depth, their philosophical significance, and how they shape the Jain way of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#The_Seven_Fundamental_Principles_of_Jainism_Tattvas\" >The Seven Fundamental Principles of Jainism (Tattvas)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#Jiva_Soul\" >Jiva (Soul)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#Ajiva_Non-soul\" >Ajiva (Non-soul)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#Asrava_Influx_of_Karma\" >Asrava (Influx of Karma)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#Bandha_Bondage_of_Karma\" >Bandha (Bondage of Karma)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#Samvara_Stoppage_of_Karma\" >Samvara (Stoppage of Karma)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#Nirjara_Shedding_of_Karma\" >Nirjara (Shedding of Karma)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#Moksha_Liberation\" >Moksha (Liberation)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#Significance_of_the_Seven_Principles_in_Daily_Life\" >Significance of the Seven Principles in Daily Life<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#FAQs_on_the_7_Fundamental_Principles_of_Jainism\" >FAQs on the 7 Fundamental Principles of Jainism<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Seven_Fundamental_Principles_of_Jainism_Tattvas\"><\/span>The Seven Fundamental Principles of Jainism (Tattvas)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The seven principles of Jainism are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Jiva (Soul)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ajiva (Non-soul)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Asrava (Influx of Karma)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bandha (Bondage of Karma)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Samvara (Stoppage of Karma)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nirjara (Shedding of Karma)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Moksha (Liberation)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>These tattvas explain the soul\u2019s journey\u2014how it gets entangled in worldly attachments and karma, and how it can ultimately achieve liberation through spiritual discipline. Let\u2019s examine each in detail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Jiva_Soul\"><\/span>Jiva (Soul)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In Jainism, the <strong>soul (jiva)<\/strong> is considered eternal, conscious, and full of potential for infinite bliss and knowledge. Every living being, whether human, animal, insect, plant, or microorganism, possesses a soul.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Key Features of Jiva:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Souls are inherently pure, but their purity is obscured by karma.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Each soul is individual and distinct; no two souls are the same.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A soul is characterized by <strong>consciousness (chetana)<\/strong> and <strong>knowledge (gyana)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The soul\u2019s true nature is infinite knowledge, infinite bliss, infinite energy, and infinite perception. However, due to karmic bondage, it cannot realize its full potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Jains believe that recognizing the existence of the soul is the first step toward liberation. When one understands that the body is temporary but the soul is eternal, detachment from worldly pleasures becomes easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ajiva_Non-soul\"><\/span>Ajiva (Non-soul)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While jiva represents the conscious element, <strong>ajiva<\/strong> refers to the non-living, non-conscious substances of the universe. Jain philosophy classifies the world into living (jiva) and non-living (ajiva) entities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Categories of Ajiva:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pudgala (Matter)<\/strong> \u2013 All physical substances, including atoms, water, fire, and bodies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dharma (Medium of Motion)<\/strong> \u2013 The principle that enables movement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Adharma (Medium of Rest)<\/strong> \u2013 The principle that allows rest and stability.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Akasha (Space)<\/strong> \u2013 Provides room for all substances to exist.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kala (Time)<\/strong> \u2013 Helps in measuring change and events.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Ajiva forms the environment in which souls exist and act. Interaction between jiva and ajiva results in karmic bondage, which keeps the soul trapped in the cycle of birth and death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Asrava_Influx_of_Karma\"><\/span>Asrava (Influx of Karma)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The third principle, <strong>asrava<\/strong>, refers to the inflow of karmic matter into the soul. Karma in Jainism is not metaphorical but a real, subtle form of matter that binds to the soul due to actions, thoughts, and speech.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Causes of Asrava:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Violence (Himsa)<\/strong> \u2013 Harming living beings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Falsehood (Asatya)<\/strong> \u2013 Speaking lies or deceiving others.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Stealing (Adattadana)<\/strong> \u2013 Taking what is not rightfully yours.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Unchastity (Maithuna)<\/strong> \u2013 Indulgence in sensual pleasures.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Possessiveness (Parigraha)<\/strong> \u2013 Attachment to material wealth.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Asrava occurs through the activities of body, mind, and speech when accompanied by passions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed. It is the entry point of karmic bondage and must be controlled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bandha_Bondage_of_Karma\"><\/span>Bandha (Bondage of Karma)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Once karma enters the soul, it results in <strong>bandha<\/strong>\u2014the bondage of the soul with karmic particles. This bondage determines the soul\u2019s experiences of pleasure and pain, birth and death, and the cycle of reincarnation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Types of Bandha:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Nature Bondage (Prakriti Bandha)<\/strong> \u2013 Determines the type of karma (knowledge-obscuring, perception-obscuring, deluding, obstructive, etc.).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Duration Bondage (Sthiti Bandha)<\/strong> \u2013 The length of time karma will remain attached.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Intensity Bondage (Anubhava Bandha)<\/strong> \u2013 The strength of karmic results.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Quantity Bondage (Pradesha Bandha)<\/strong> \u2013 The extent of karmic particles bound to the soul.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Bandha explains why each soul\u2019s journey is unique\u2014our karmas shape our present and future lives. Liberation is possible only by breaking this bondage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Samvara_Stoppage_of_Karma\"><\/span>Samvara (Stoppage of Karma)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Samvara<\/strong> is the process of stopping new karmic particles from attaching to the soul. It is like closing the door to prevent further dust from entering a room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Achieve Samvara:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Right Faith (Samyak Darshan)<\/strong> \u2013 Believing in the truth of Jain philosophy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Right Knowledge (Samyak Gyan)<\/strong> \u2013 Understanding reality without distortion.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra)<\/strong> \u2013 Living a life of non-violence, honesty, purity, and detachment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Practicing Austerities (Tapas)<\/strong> \u2013 Self-discipline and penance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Observing the Five Vows (Mahavratas for monks, Anuvratas for laypeople):<\/strong>\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Non-violence (<em>Ahimsa<\/em>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Truth (<em>Satya<\/em>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Non-stealing (<em>Asteya<\/em>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chastity (<em>Brahmacharya<\/em>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Non-possessiveness (<em>Aparigraha<\/em>)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>By following samvara, the soul prevents fresh karmic influx and moves closer to purification.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nirjara_Shedding_of_Karma\"><\/span>Nirjara (Shedding of Karma)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While samvara stops new karmic inflow, <strong>nirjara<\/strong> is the process of destroying or shedding the karmas already attached to the soul. This purification is essential for ultimate liberation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Two Types of Nirjara:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Passive Nirjara (Akama Nirjara)<\/strong> \u2013 Natural exhaustion of karmas over time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Active Nirjara (Sakama Nirjara)<\/strong> \u2013 Conscious efforts through austerities and spiritual practices.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Practices for Nirjara:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>External Austerities:<\/strong> Fasting, dietary restrictions, giving up comforts, solitude, and self-discipline.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Internal Austerities:<\/strong> Repentance, humility, service, meditation, self-study, and detachment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Through nirjara, the soul gradually becomes free from karmic impurities, revealing its true divine nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Moksha_Liberation\"><\/span>Moksha (Liberation)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The ultimate goal of <a href=\"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/about-jain-tirthankaras-symbols-teachings-lifespans\/\">Jainism is moksha<\/a>, liberation from the cycle of birth and death. A liberated soul is free from all karmic matter, existing in its pure state of infinite bliss, knowledge, and energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Path to Moksha:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Following the <strong>Three Jewels (Ratnatraya):<\/strong>\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Right Faith (<em>Samyak Darshan<\/em>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Right Knowledge (<em>Samyak Gyan<\/em>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Right Conduct (<em>Samyak Charitra<\/em>)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>When the soul completely sheds karmic bondage through nirjara and prevents new influx through samvara, it rises to the top of the universe (<em>Siddhashila<\/em>), where liberated souls reside eternally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moksha is not just an escape from suffering but the realization of the soul\u2019s inherent perfection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Significance_of_the_Seven_Principles_in_Daily_Life\"><\/span>Significance of the Seven Principles in Daily Life<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Although the tattvas are philosophical concepts, they also have practical applications in daily life. By understanding them, Jains cultivate ethical living, spiritual growth, and compassion for all beings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Awareness of Jiva<\/strong> encourages respect for all life forms, leading to non-violence.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Understanding Ajiva<\/strong> highlights detachment from material possessions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Recognizing Asrava and Bandha<\/strong> makes one mindful of their actions and consequences.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Practicing Samvara and Nirjara<\/strong> helps in spiritual purification.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Striving for Moksha<\/strong> gives life a higher purpose beyond worldly attachments.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>seven fundamental principles of Jainism<\/strong> form the spiritual foundation of the faith. They explain the soul\u2019s journey from bondage to liberation, emphasizing self-discipline, non-violence, and detachment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For Jains, these principles are not just abstract theories but guiding lights for daily conduct. They remind us that liberation is attainable through conscious effort\u2014by curbing desires, shedding karmas, and realizing the eternal soul.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ultimately, Jainism teaches that each soul is responsible for its own destiny. By understanding and practicing these seven tattvas, one can progress toward the highest goal: <strong>moksha<\/strong>, the state of eternal bliss and freedom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_on_the_7_Fundamental_Principles_of_Jainism\"><\/span>FAQs on the 7 Fundamental Principles of Jainism<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758884018136\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the seven fundamental principles of Jainism?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The seven principles, also known as tattvas, are: Jiva (soul), Ajiva (non-soul), Asrava (influx of karma), Bandha (bondage of karma), Samvara (stoppage of karma), Nirjara (shedding of karma), and Moksha (liberation). They form the foundation of Jain philosophy.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758884045872\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Why are these principles important in Jainism?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">They explain the journey of the soul, how it gets bound by karma, and the process to achieve liberation. By practicing these principles, Jains cultivate non-violence, self-discipline, and detachment, ultimately leading to spiritual freedom.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758884067205\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the difference between Jiva and Ajiva?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Jiva refers to the living, conscious soul that has knowledge and perception. Ajiva refers to non-living, non-conscious substances such as matter, space, time, motion, and rest. Together, they make up the universe.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758884088843\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How does karma work in Jainism?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">In Jainism, karma is a fine form of matter that attaches to the soul due to actions, thoughts, and speech influenced by passions. This karmic bondage determines rebirths, experiences, and suffering. Liberation comes by stopping the influx (Samvara) and shedding karma (Nirjara).<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758884109473\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What role do the Three Jewels (Ratnatraya) play in these principles?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The Three Jewels\u2014Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct\u2014are essential for achieving Samvara and Nirjara. They act as practical tools for applying the seven principles in daily life and are necessary for attaining moksha.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758884175015\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can laypeople practice these principles, or are they only for monks?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Both monks and laypeople can practice the tattvas, though to different extents. Monks follow stricter vows (Mahavratas), while laypeople observe smaller vows (Anuvratas). The principles are universal and meant for everyone who seeks spiritual progress.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758884198657\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is Moksha in Jainism?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Moksha is the ultimate liberation of the soul from all karmic bondage and the cycle of birth and death. A liberated soul exists in Siddhashila, the highest realm, in a state of eternal bliss, knowledge, and freedom.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758884211500\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How can one practice Samvara and Nirjara in everyday life?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Samvara can be practiced through right faith, right knowledge, self-discipline, non-violence, and ethical conduct. Nirjara involves austerities such as fasting, meditation, repentance, and self-study, helping reduce existing karmic load.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Jainism, one of the world\u2019s oldest religions, is deeply rooted in the principles of non-violence, truth, and self-realization. Emerging in ancient India around the 6th century BCE, Jainism is not&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3218,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[121],"tags":[366,362,364,365,363],"class_list":["post-3214","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-religious-tours","tag-jainism-and-ethics","tag-jainism-principles","tag-moksha-in-jainism","tag-spiritual-liberation","tag-tattvas-of-jainism"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.1.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>7 Fundamental Principles of Jainism: Jiva, Karma, and the Path to Moksha<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore the 7 fundamental principles (tattvas) of Jainism, including Jiva, Ajiva, Karma, Samvara, Nirjara, and Moksha. 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By practicing these principles, Jains cultivate non-violence, self-discipline, and detachment, ultimately leading to spiritual freedom.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#faq-question-1758884067205","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#faq-question-1758884067205","name":"What is the difference between Jiva and Ajiva?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Jiva refers to the living, conscious soul that has knowledge and perception. Ajiva refers to non-living, non-conscious substances such as matter, space, time, motion, and rest. Together, they make up the universe.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#faq-question-1758884088843","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#faq-question-1758884088843","name":"How does karma work in Jainism?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"In Jainism, karma is a fine form of matter that attaches to the soul due to actions, thoughts, and speech influenced by passions. This karmic bondage determines rebirths, experiences, and suffering. Liberation comes by stopping the influx (Samvara) and shedding karma (Nirjara).","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#faq-question-1758884109473","position":5,"url":"https:\/\/vardhmanvacations.com\/blog\/7-fundamental-principles-of-jainism\/#faq-question-1758884109473","name":"What role do the Three Jewels (Ratnatraya) play in these principles?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The Three Jewels\u2014Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct\u2014are essential for achieving Samvara and Nirjara. 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