What is Karma in Jainism

In Jain philosophy, karma is not merely an abstract concept of action or moral cause and effect but is considered a tangible, subtle form of matter that binds to the soul. These karma particles, or atoms, obscure the soul's intrinsic qualities of infinite knowledge, perception, bliss, and energy, thereby trapping it in the cycle of samsara (birth and death). Unlike other Indian religions where karma is often viewed as a metaphysical principle, Jainism uniquely conceptualizes karma as a physical substance that influences the soul's experiences and transmigration.

The doctrine of karma in Jainism is highly detailed and scientific in its approach, categorizing karma based on its nature (prakrti), duration (sthiti), intensity (rasa or anubhāva), and quantity (pradeśa). This complex theory underscores the Jain belief in the independence of each soul and emphasizes self-effort as the means to liberation, rejecting the notion of a supreme creator god. The karmic particles accumulate through one's actions, thoughts, and intentions, and their effects manifest as rewards or punishments in this or future lives, following the principle "As you sow, so you reap."

Jain texts describe karma as the "Kärmaṇa Sarira," or the karmic body, which envelops the soul and determines its worldly existence. The liberation path in Jainism involves purifying the soul by shedding these karmic particles through ethical conduct, austerity, and spiritual practices. This karmic theory is considered one of the most sophisticated and scientifically oriented spiritual doctrines, though it remains a metaphysical concept not yet verifiable by modern scientific methods.