22 sufferings. What are they?
In Jainism, the "22 sufferings" (Baavis Upasargas) are the various types of sufferings or afflictions that a soul undergoes in the cycle of birth and death (samsara). Recognizing these sufferings helps aspirants develop detachment and strive for liberation (moksha). The 22 sufferings are described in Jain scriptures, such as Tattvartha Sutra (Tattvarthadhigama Sutra) and Uttaradhyayana Sutra.
Here are the 22 sufferings (Baavis Upasargas):
- जन्म (Janma) – Birth
- जरा (Jaraa) – Old age
- मृत्यु (Mrityu) – Death
- शोक (Shoka) – Grief
- दुख (Dukha) – Pain
- भय (Bhaya) – Fear
- निक्रूश (Nikrusha) – Abuse
- बन्धन (Bandhana) – Bondage/imprisonment
- वेदना (Vedana) – Physical suffering
- तृषा (Trisha) – Thirst
- क्षुधा (Kshudha) – Hunger
- दारिद्र्य (Daridrya) – Poverty
- रोग (Roga) – Disease
- तृष्णा (Trishna) – Craving/desire
- अपमान (Apamaan) – Insult
- परिश्रम (Parishrama) – Toil/labor
- व्यसन (Vyasana) – Misfortune
- भय (Bhaya) – Fear (sometimes listed twice for emphasis)
- चौर्य (Chaurya) – Theft/robbery
- दुष्टजन-संघ (Dushtajana-Sangha) – Association with wicked people
- वियोग (Viyoga) – Separation from loved ones
- अभाव (Abhava) – Non-fulfillment of desires
These sufferings are a reminder of the inherent pain and impermanence in worldly existence, motivating spiritual aspirants to seek liberation from the cycle of birth and death.