What are the 8 types of karma particles

Philosophy 496 views Asked 19 November, 2025

Quick Answer

The eight types of karma particles in Jain philosophy are Jñānāvaraṇīya, Darśanāvaraṇīya, Mohanīya, Antarāya, Vedanīya, Nāmakaraṇa, Gotra, and Ayu karma.

Detailed Answer

In Jain philosophy, karma is classified into eight distinct types of particles that bind to the soul, influencing its qualities and experiences. These are: 1) Jñānāvaraṇīya karma, which obscures knowledge; 2) Darśanāvaraṇīya karma, which obscures perception; 3) Mohanīya karma, which deludes and causes attachment and aversion; 4) Antarāya karma, which obstructs the soul's ability to act; 5) Vedanīya karma, which causes experiences of pleasure and pain; 6) Nāmakaraṇa karma, which determines the physical body and attributes; 7) Gotra karma, which influences social status and family; and 8) Ayu karma, which determines lifespan. These karmas collectively affect the soul's journey through samsāra (cycle of birth and death), and their shedding through spiritual practices leads to liberation (mokṣa). Understanding these karmas is essential for grasping the Jain path of purification and self-realization.

Related: How many types of karma · what is the charge that causes us to charge our karma particles

Source References

This answer is generated by JainGPT and grounded in primary Jain scriptures, commentaries and scholarly texts from our digitised library. See the cited references below and our editorial standards.

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