what is tatva

In Jainism, "tatva" (or "tattva") refers to the fundamental principles or realities that explain the nature of existence and the path to liberation (moksha). According to Jain philosophy, understanding these tattvas is essential for spiritual progress. Traditionally, there are seven tattvas, though sometimes two more are added, making a total of nine. The seven principal tattvas are:

1. Jiva (Soul) – The conscious, living substance.
2. Ajiva (Non-soul) – The non-living substances (matter, time, space, etc.).
3. Asrava (Influx) – The inflow of karmic particles into the soul due to actions.
4. Bandha (Bondage) – The binding of karmic particles to the soul.
5. Samvara (Stoppage) – The stoppage of new karmic inflow.
6. Nirjara (Shedding) – The gradual removal of accumulated karma.
7. Moksha (Liberation) – The complete freedom of the soul from all karmic bondage.

The two additional tattvas sometimes included are:

1. Punya (Merit) – Good karma.
2. Papa (Demerit) – Bad karma.

Understanding tattvas is central to Jain ethical and spiritual practice, as it helps the aspirant to purify the soul and achieve liberation.