In Jainism, kashay refers to the passions or emotions such as anger (krodh), pride (maan), deceit (maya), and greed (lobh) that bind the soul to the cycle of birth and death (samsara). These kashay are considered major obstacles to spiritual progress and liberation (moksha).

Tapasvee is a term used for one who undertakes tapasya (austerities or penance) to purify the soul and reduce karmic bondage. There are two types of austerities in Jainism:

1. External Tapas (Bahya Tapas) – Physical austerities like fasting, control of food, solitude, etc.
2. Internal Tapas (Antar Tapas) – Mental austerities such as repentance, humility, meditation, and self-study.

For a tapasvee (one who performs tapasya), conquering or reducing kashay is essential. The effectiveness of any penance or austerity is not merely in the physical act, but in how much the person has subdued their passions. A tapasvee who can control or eliminate kashay through right knowledge, right faith, and right conduct (Samyak Jnan, Darshan, and Charitra) progresses swiftly on the path of liberation.

In summary: A kashay tap tapasvee is a tapasvee who strives to overcome the four passions (kashay) through internal and external austerities, as this is fundamental to attaining liberation according to Jain philosophy.