B.7 Nav Tattva Part II: Punya & Päp
An Interactive Study Guide
Ways of Acquiring Punya
Punya karma is earned when our activities are good and comforting to others. The Sthänänga Sutra describes nine ways to acquire Punya, primarily through offering (Dän) to deserving people (Supätra) like Jain ascetics and people in need. Click on each card to see the meaning!
The 18 Päpasthänak (Sinful Activities)
Jain scriptures describe eighteen kinds of activities that are the main sources of sin (Päp). These should be avoided as they lead to suffering in this life and future lives. Click on each sin to learn more about it.
The Four-Fold Combinations of Punya and Päp
The bondage of new karma depends on our soul's reflections (Anubandh) while experiencing the fruits of past karma. This creates four combinations:
1. Punyänubandhi Punya (Virtue leading to Virtue)
While enjoying the fruits of past Punya (e.g., wealth), one performs more righteous deeds, like charity. This is the best state.
2. Päpänubandhi Punya (Virtue leading to Sin)
While enjoying the fruits of past Punya, one becomes arrogant and indulges in non-virtuous activities. This is the most common state for worldly beings.
3. Punyänubandhi Päp (Sin leading to Virtue)
While suffering the fruits of past Päp (e.g., poverty), one remains calm, accepts it as their own doing, and continues to live virtuously. This is a rare and noble state.
4. Päpänubandhi Päp (Sin leading to Sin)
While suffering the fruits of past Päp, one becomes bitter, blames others, and commits more sinful acts. This is the worst state, leading to a downward spiral.
Interactive Karma Chart
Click on any item with a [+] or [-] to expand or collapse the category.