What are Astkarma
Astha-karma (Ashta-karmā) are the eight main kinds of karmic matter described in Jain philosophy that bind the soul and affect its experience in births and lives.
- Ghātiyā karmas (destructive to the soul’s true nature)
- Aghātiyā karmas (non-destructive to the soul’s pure nature but shaping worldly experiences)
Notes
- This is the standard eightfold division recognized by both Śvetāmbara and Digambara traditions; the explanations and sub-types may vary slightly between traditions, but the core list is the same.
- On attaining kevala-jñāna (omniscience), the four ghātiyā karmas are destroyed, and at final liberation the four aghātiyā karmas are shed.