Answer

In Jain Dharma, we remain in the cosmic cycle of birth and rebirth because the soul becomes bound by karma. This bondage is caused mainly by ignorance, attachment, aversion, and passions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed.

Explanation

According to Jain teaching, the soul is pure by nature. But when it acts under the influence of passions and wrong understanding, karma flows toward it and sticks to it. That karma keeps the soul moving through the cycle of worldly existence, called samsara.

We are “stuck” because:

• We do not fully realize the true nature of the soul
• We create new karma through our thoughts, words, and actions
• We keep strengthening bondage through attachment and hatred
• We remain caught in desire for worldly pleasures and identity

This cycle continues until karma is exhausted and the soul becomes free.

Spiritual Understanding

Jain Dharma teaches that this cycle is not punishment from outside. It is the natural result of karmic causes. The good news is that the same soul that is bound can also become free.

Freedom comes through:

• Right faith
• Right knowledge
• Right conduct
• Non-violence
• Self-control
• Detachment
• Meditation and austerity

When karma is fully destroyed, the soul reaches liberation, or moksha.

Takeaway

We are in the cycle because of karma, but we are not doomed by it. By purifying conduct and reducing attachment, the soul can move toward freedom.