Significance of Ahsrava

Ahsrava, in Jainism, signifies the influx of karma that results in suffering and bondage, as well as negative impulses that contribute to the development of adverse Leshyas. It encompasses meditation that focuses on the consequences of karmic influences. Additionally, from the Vyakarana perspective, Ahsrava is described as a condition that deteriorates the body and forms part of the seven principles of Jainism. In Mahayana Buddhism, Ahsrava represents defilements and impurities born from ignorance and craving, hindering spiritual advancement.

In German: Ahsrava; In Finnish: Ahsrava; In Spanish: Ahsrava; In Dutch: Aschrava

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Ahsrava'

Buddhism Books

Ahsrava in Buddhism signifies defilements stemming from ignorance and craving, which hinder spiritual advancement and foster suffering and attachment, emphasizing their role as key obstacles on the path to enlightenment.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Mahavastu (great story)

(1) Defilements or impurities that the Exalted One has renounced, indicating his enlightened state.[1] (2) The defilements or impurities that lead to suffering and attachment in Buddhist teachings.[2]

From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra

(1) Defilements or impurities that arise from ignorance and craving, which obstruct spiritual progress.[3]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Hindu concept of 'Ahsrava'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Ahsrava signifies a principle that 'emaciates the body,' as described by Kshirasvamin. It embodies one of the seven core tenets in Jain philosophy, highlighting its significance in spiritual and physical manifestation.

Significance in Hinduism (general):

From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha

(1) The influx of actions and their consequences flowing into the soul due to its yoga or engagement with various bodies.[4]

Jain concept of 'Ahsrava'

Jainism Books

Ahsrava in Jainism signifies the influx of karma, which impacts life through suffering and bondage, driven by meditation on karmic inflow and impulses that cultivate negative Leshyas.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)

(1) The influx or acquisition of karmas as a result of the rise of passions and related dispositions.[5] (2) Influx; refers to the accumulation of karmas that lead to suffering and bondage.[6]

From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra

(1) Impulses that lead individuals to develop negative Leshyas.[7]

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) Meditation centered on the inflow of karma and its impact on life.[8]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

Plural form: Asravas.